News Mississippi
Congress passes bill to extend duck season
By Alex Paton
Congress has approved a bill to allow states to extend duck hunting season to January 31st. The House of Representatives approved the Natural Resources Management Act (S.47), which includes provisions authored by U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith that would not only extend duck hunting season to January 31st, but also authorizes the states to set aside a two-day special hunt period for youths and a separate two-day hunt for veterans and active duty members of the armed forces.
“House passage of the Natural Resources Management Act means my proposal to extend federal duck hunting seasons and honor our military and veterans only requires the President’s signature to become law,” said Senator Hyde-Smith. “I believe change will create opportunities for more people to enjoy the great outdoors while benefiting states like Mississippi that cater to sportsmen.”
The Senate passed the bill earlier in February and the legislation which she says will boost the state’s economy was the first bill introduced by Senator Hyde-Smith last year.
“It is fitting that we offer a couple of additional days of duck hunting for servicemembers, veterans, and youth,” Hyde-Smith said. “It is a gesture of appreciation that can also generate additional economic activity in states where hunting is a way of life.”
The bill will now go to President Donald Trump’s desk to be signed into law.