Today, the Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries held a legislative hearing on four bills aimed at promoting government efficiency, science-based water management and increased recreation on our nation's waters. Subcommittee Chair Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.) issued the following statement in response:

"Today’s legislative hearing underscores our commitment to efficient, science-based stewardship of America’s natural resources. By streamlining State Wildlife Action Plans, bolstering protections for animals rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, ensuring access to the most up-to-date scientific data in water management, and expanding recreational opportunities on our nation’s waters, we are delivering commonsense solutions for conservation and public enjoyment."

Background

H.R. 1676, the Make SWAPS Efficient Act of 2025, introduced by U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.), will promote government efficiency by requiring the Secretary of the Interior to approve the wildlife conservation and restoration program of a state in a timely manner.

H.R. 3538, the Wildlife Confiscations Network Act of 2025, introduced by U.S. Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-N.Y.), will provide accountability and greater oversight over the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s efforts to take care of wildlife seized by law enforcement investigating trafficking or other illegal activities.

H.R. 3857, the Snow Water Supply Forecasting Reauthorization Act of 2025, introduced by U.S. Rep. Jeff Hurd, reauthorizes the Bureau of Reclamation’s Snow Water Supply Forecasting Program, empowering water managers with the use of emerging technologies to conduct snow monitoring and water supply forecasting and make decisions based on the best available science.

H.R. 3858, the Sport Fish Restoration, Recreational Boating Safety, and Wildlife Restoration Act of 2025, introduced by U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.), will support and bolster America's outdoor recreation economy by reauthorizing and reforming the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund.