Rep. Maxine Dexter: Science Clearly Shows Lead Harms People, Opposes Pro-Lead Ammunition Bill

Opposition to Lead Ammunition Bill

• 🎯 Representative Maxine Dexter, speaking as a scientist and physician, firmly opposes the proposed "Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act of 2025."
• ⚠️ She emphasizes that the science on lead is clear: lead poisoning is a significant issue with detrimental impacts on both individual animals and the food chain.

Public Health and Environmental Concerns

• ⚕️ Dexter asserts that protecting public health and safety is a fundamental role and obligation of the government.
• 🌳 The use of lead in ammunition and fishing tackle is deemed absurd, especially given the availability of affordable alternatives.
• 🎣 She highlights that hunters and anglers deserve safe meat, and the ease of catching fish and deer is contrasted with that of crustaceans and shellfish.

Scientific Data and Government Capacity

• 📊 Dexter points out challenges in acquiring comprehensive data, noting that open positions for biologists and data gatherers in the Interior Bureau remain unfilled.
• 🚫 This lack of personnel hinders the ability to gather scientific proof, despite the inherent dangers of lead to the environment.

Harm to Children and Call to Action

• 👶 The science unequivocally shows that lead harms people, especially children.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Dexter expresses a desire for children to safely hunt and fish with their own families in the future, a goal jeopardized by the continued use of lead.
• 🗳️ She strongly encourages her colleagues to vote no on the bill.