Rep. Lieu Leads Effort to Get the Lead Out

AWI has been working closely with Representative Ted Lieu’s (D-CA) office on the Lead Endangers Animals Daily (LEAD) Act, which was introduced on July 9. Rep. Lieu is determined to prevent the needless poisoning of wildlife by prohibiting hunters from using toxic lead bullets on lands managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. An estimated 10 to 20 million birds and other animals, including threatened and endangered species, die of lead poisoning every year after ingesting bullet fragments or contaminated carcasses. Humans are also at risk for lead poisoning. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has determined that there is no safe level of lead exposure for humans. This dangerous metal has been banned in most products, such as toys and paint, but it is still regularly used in bullets, which are the largest source of lead knowingly discharged into the environment. Comparable alternatives, such as copper and steel ammunition, are widely available, and many hunters, even, advocate for lead shot restrictions. Given these alternatives, it is irresponsible to litter natural spaces with lead bullets.

Program Terms: Terrestrial Wildlife

AWI Quarterly Terms: Government/Legal, Quick Read