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REP. LIEU STATEMENT ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF ANTI-ENVIRONMENTAL/ANIMAL PROTECTION LEGISLATION

February 26, 2016

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“Today, I voted against the so-called ‘Sportsmen’s Heritage and Recreation Enhancement (SHARE) Act.’ Unfortunately, the bill passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 242 to 161, despite strong opposition from President Obama and dozens of environmental and animal welfare organizations.

“On its surface, the SHARE Act expands access to federally-controlled lands for hunting, fishing, and recreation shooting. In actuality, though, the bill is an unnecessary and destructive attack on protections for animals and the environment. For example, it blocks President Obama’s efforts to restrict the illegal trafficking of ivory; allows hunters to acquire permits to import polar bear trophies; reissues a Fish and Wildlife Service decision to delist the gray wolf; and, prevents the regulation of toxic substances, such as lead, present in hunting equipment. Additionally concerning is that the House blocked the adoption of amendments that would have protected the Arctic Refuge and certain ocean national parks.

“I am deeply disappointed by the SHARE Act’s passage. We are fortunate to live in a nation with policies that allow for the preservation of unique species and pristine wilderness areas, like Yosemite National Park and the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Instead of tearing down our nation’s bedrock environmental protections, we must strengthen them so that these sites and species can be enjoyed for future generations.”

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