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HD 783

An Act requiring nonlead ammunition when taking wildlife

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Dan Sena

Massachusetts bill mandates hunters use nonlead ammunition to reduce environmental contamination and wildlife lead exposure.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 783

Legislative bill overview

HD 783 would require hunters and others taking wildlife in Massachusetts to use nonlead ammunition exclusively. The bill mandates a transition away from traditional lead-based ammunition to alternative materials like copper or steel projectiles. This applies to hunting, predator control, and other wildlife-taking activities across the state.

Why is this important

Lead ammunition fragments can contaminate environments and enter food chains, posing health risks to both wildlife and humans who consume game. States like California have implemented similar bans and documented reduced lead exposure in scavenger birds and other wildlife. The policy represents a public health and environmental protection measure with measurable ecological consequences.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and availability: Nonlead ammunition typically costs more and may have limited availability in some calibers, particularly affecting rural hunters and low-income communities
  • Hunting effectiveness: Some hunters argue lead ammunition performs differently than alternatives in ballistics and reliability, potentially affecting harvest success rates and animal welfare
  • Scope and enforcement: Questions about how the state would enforce compliance, whether exemptions exist (military, law enforcement), and whether the mandate applies to all wildlife or specific species
  • Economic impact on ammunition industry: Potential effects on local gun shops, manufacturers, and the broader outdoor retail ecosystem

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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