This bill would require hunters and shooters to use only nonlead ammunition on all lands and waters managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Department of the Interior would create and update a yearly list of approved nonlead ammunition options. The rule wouldn't apply to law enforcement officers, military personnel, or government officials doing their jobs, so they could continue using regular ammunition. If someone knowingly breaks this rule, they'd face fines starting at $500 for a first offense and ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for repeat violations. The main goal is to reduce lead poisoning in wildlife, particularly in birds and other animals that can be harmed when they ingest lead ammunition fragments left behind in the environment.

LEAD Act of 2023

Lead Endangers Animals Daily Act of 2023 or the LEAD Act of 2023 This bill directs the Department of the Interior to issue final regulations prohibiting the discharge of any firearm using ammunition other than nonlead ammunition on all lands and waters under the jurisdiction and control of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Interior must establish and annually update a list of nonlead ammunition. The prohibition does not apply to (1) a government official or agent who is carrying out a statutory duty unrelated to the management of wildlife; (2) a state, local, tribal, or federal law enforcement officer, or the agent of such an officer, who is carrying out a statutory duty; or (3) an active member of the U.S. military who is carrying out official duties. A person that knowingly violates the prohibition may be assessed a civil penalty by Interior of (1) no more than $500 for the first violation, and (2) no less than $1,000 or more than $5,000 for a second or subsequent violation.