Grassroots Legislative Update -- September 8, 2025

Trump Administration

Department of the Interior

The U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), under the Trump administration, has announced a final rule expanding hunting and fishing access across more than 87,000 acres in the National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) and National Fish Hatchery (NFH) Systems. This expansion creates 42 new opportunities—tripling previous figures and quintupling units—highlighting conservation, outdoor recreation, and efforts to reduce regulatory burdens.

Secretary Doug Burgum highlighted hunting and fishing's role in preserving lands, boosting the economy, and upholding American traditions. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is opening or expanding access at 16 NWR units and one NFH unit in states including Alabama, California, Idaho, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, North Carolina, Texas, and Washington. Notable additions include inaugural hunting at Southern Maryland Woodlands NWR and sport fishing at North Attleboro NFH.

Administrative Actions follow President Trump's executive orders on deregulation and public land access. USFWS Director Brian Nesvik praised the move for supporting wildlife management, stewardship, and local economies while protecting America's hunting heritage. …