In House Committee·Last action 299 days ago

H.R. 3858 extends restoration funding rules to 2031 and updates boating fuel and bait-tax rules

Officially: Sport Fish Restoration, Recreational Boating Safety, and Wildlife Restoration Act of 2025

Extends the current sport fish and related restoration funding structure through 2031. Adjusts funding for interstate fisheries commissions, adds an alternative-fuel boating infrastructure priority, and lowers the excise tax on certain aerated bait containers.

Where it stands

Sitting in Water

No vote scheduled. Constituent contact is what moves bills out of committee.

What this bill actually does

Keeps the Dingell-Johnson sport fish funding allocation rules going by extending the 2026 end date out to 2031.
Changes the interstate fisheries commission rule so each commission gets at least $200,000, or more if 0.0375% of that year’s appropriation is higher.
Lets boating infrastructure funds be used to build, upgrade, or maintain alternative-fuel facilities for transient, nontrailerable recreational boats (generally larger boats that aren’t hauled on trailers).

↓ Why your message matters here

This bill is sitting in committee with no scheduled vote — which means a small number of constituent messages can decide whether it moves forward or quietly dies.

Where your representatives stand

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The debate

What people are saying about this bill

✓Arguments in support

Sustains Conservation Funding: Extends critical funding for fish and wildlife conservation programs, ensuring stable resources for states through 2031.
Promotes Eco-Friendly Boating: Prioritizes the development of alternative fuel facilities, supporting cleaner energy use in the boating industry.
Reduces Costs for Anglers: Lowers the excise tax on innovative fishing gear, making it more affordable for anglers to purchase and use.

✕Arguments against

Potential Revenue Loss: The reduction in excise tax could lead to a decrease in revenue, affecting the overall funding available for conservation programs.
Increased Federal Spending: Some may be concerned about the increased flexibility in federal spending and its long-term implications.
Focus on Alternative Fuels: Critics might argue that the emphasis on alternative fuels could divert attention and resources from other pressing issues in the boating industry.

Where this bill is in the process

Legislative timeline

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Introduced

Introduced in House

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House Committee

Under House committee consideration

Latest: Referred to the Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries. (6/23/2025)

JUN 23

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House Floor Vote

Voted on by House

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Passed House

Approved by House

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Senate Review

Sent to Senate for consideration

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Passed Both Chambers

Approved by both House and Senate

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Signed into Law

Signed by the President

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H.R. 3858 extends restoration funding rules to 2031 and updates boating fuel and bait-tax rules

Where your representatives stand

What people are saying about this bill

Legislative timeline

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