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SB 181

Hunting - Restrictions of Venison Donation

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ben Brooks and 6 co-sponsors

Maryland would phase out lead ammunition in hunting, requiring hunters to transition to non-toxic alternatives over a set period to reduce environmental and health risks.

Referred Rules and Executive Nominations
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Bill Summary · SB 181

Legislative bill overview

SB 181 would phase out the use of lead and lead-based ammunition in hunting throughout Maryland. The bill establishes a transition period requiring hunters to switch to non-toxic ammunition alternatives over a specified timeframe. This represents a shift toward environmental and public health protections related to ammunition use in the state.

Why is this important

Lead ammunition fragments can contaminate soil and water, and spent ammunition poses bioaccumulation risks in wildlife food chains, potentially affecting both ecosystems and humans who consume game meat. The phaseout addresses documented public health concerns about lead exposure while influencing hunting practices across the state. Maryland would join several western states and jurisdictions that have implemented similar restrictions.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and accessibility: Non-toxic ammunition alternatives are typically more expensive and may have limited availability, placing financial burden on hunters and potentially affecting participation rates among lower-income hunters
  • Hunting effectiveness: Some hunters argue that lead ammunition performs differently than alternatives, raising concerns about ammunition reliability, accuracy, and ethical shot placement
  • Implementation timeline: The phaseout schedule may be considered too aggressive by hunters needing time to adapt, or too lenient by environmental advocates seeking immediate restrictions

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

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