Senators Introduce Legislation to Close Tax Loophole Affecting Wildlife Conservation
In a significant move to enhance funding for wildlife conservation, Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) and Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) have introduced the Sporting Goods Excise Tax Modernization Act. This legislation aims to ensure foreign sellers adhere to the same tax regulations that domestic manufacturers face, thereby closing a loophole that undermines state-led conservation efforts and permits foreign online retailers to circumvent excise taxes on sporting goods.
“Alabama is proud to be home to hundreds of small businesses that produce vital sporting equipment for conservationists,” stated Tuberville. “This bill will prevent foreign competitors from exploiting our tax system and robbing funds from crucial conservation programs.”
The Act has garnered support from various conservation and sporting organizations, including the Alabama Department of Conservation and The Conservation Fund. Chris Blankenship, Alabama’s conservation commissioner, emphasized the importance of these funds for outdoor activities that benefit recreation across the state.
Current legislation, namely the Pittman-Robertson and Dingell-Johnson Acts, has been instrumental in funding conservation programs through excise taxes on sporting goods, contributing over $1.3 billion in 2025 alone. However, the loophole has resulted in a substantial loss of revenue for these vital initiatives.
The Sporting Goods Excise Tax Modernization Act mandates U.S. online marketplaces to collect and remit federal excise taxes on imported fishing and archery equipment, simplifying the tax process and ensuring fairness in the marketplace.
The bipartisan effort is part of a broader commitment to secure millions in lost revenue for conservation efforts, enhancing the viability of critical programs that benefit outdoor enthusiasts nationwide. Companion legislation has also been introduced in the House of Representatives, reinforcing the initiative’s importance in maintaining the integrity of U.S. conservation efforts.
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