Washington (JonesboroRightNow.com) – December 20, 2023 – In a move hailed as a win for conservationists and outdoor enthusiasts alike, President Joe Biden signed into law the bipartisan Duck Stamp Modernization Act of 2023, a bill championed by U.S. Senator John Boozman of Arkansas. This landmark legislation authorizes the creation of a permanent electronic duck stamp for the duration of the waterfowl hunting season.
The act aims to enhance accessibility to the Federal Duck Stamp, streamline compliance procedures, and boost revenue for conservation efforts. Under this law, hunters can now conveniently obtain an electronic duck stamp via their smartphones, fulfilling the requirement to purchase and carry the stamp while in the field.
Senator Boozman, a staunch advocate for environmental preservation and a member of the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, expressed his satisfaction with the bill’s passage, emphasizing its significance for Arkansas’ proud tradition of duck hunting.
“Arkansans are rightfully proud of the unique environment that makes our state a world-class duck hunting location. Modernizing the Federal Duck Stamp is great news for waterfowlers who want to take part in this time-honored tradition and share their appreciation for this popular outdoor activity. I’m pleased the president has signed the Duck Stamp Modernization Act of 2023 into law,” said Boozman, a member of the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, which invests federal funds generated by the Duck Stamp in wetland preservation.
The bipartisan effort received support from various stakeholders, including U.S. Senators Joe Manchin, Roger Marshall, and Angus King, as well as Congressmen Garret Graves and Mike Thompson. Conservation and wildlife organizations also rallied behind the legislation, recognizing its potential to simplify procedures and expand participation in waterfowl conservation efforts.
The Duck Stamp Modernization Act represents a forward-thinking approach to wildlife management, blending technology with conservation practices to ensure the sustainability of cherished outdoor activities for generations to come.