OKC Standard

U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) has joined forces with Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Senator Tom Carper (D-DE) to introduce the America's Conservation Enhancement (ACE) Reauthorization Act. This legislation aims to strengthen wildlife conservation efforts across the country and protect ecosystems from various threats.

Senator Mullin expressed his support for the ACE Act, highlighting the importance of preserving the livelihoods of Oklahomans who depend on the land. He stated, "Generations of Oklahomans have made their living off our land. I'm glad to join my colleagues on the ACE Act to protect livestock and conserve wildlife so Oklahomans can continue this legacy."

Ranking Member Capito emphasized the significance of the ACE Act's provisions for conservation and habitat restoration efforts in the Chesapeake Bay. She acknowledged the bipartisan collaboration with Chairman Carper, stating, "I appreciate Chairman Carper for partnering with me to introduce this bipartisan legislation, and look forward to advancing it through the EPW Committee."

Chairman Carper highlighted the crucial role of the ACE Act in protecting the nation's natural beauty and conserving wildlife. He emphasized that the legislation reauthorizes essential programs like the North American Wetlands Conservation Fund and the Chesapeake Bay Program, which contribute to ecosystem preservation, habitat restoration, and wildlife conservation. He also acknowledged the shared responsibility of the federal government, state partners, hunters, anglers, and wildlife watchers in wildlife conservation.

The ACE Act encompasses several measures to conserve wildlife and its habitat. It reauthorizes key acts such as the North American Wetlands Conservation Act, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Establishment Act, and the Chesapeake Bay Program. Additionally, the legislation addresses emerging wildlife diseases like Chronic Wasting Disease, aims to protect livestock from predators, and combats invasive species.

The ACE Act has garnered support from various organizations, including Ducks Unlimited, the Congressional Sportsmens Foundation, the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, the National Wildlife Federation, the American Sportfishing Association, the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies, and Backcountry Hunters and Anglers.

With Senators Ben Cardin, John Boozman, Alex Padilla, Roger Wicker, Sheldon Whitehouse, and Chris Van Hollen as co-sponsors, the ACE Act presents a united front in its mission to bolster wildlife conservation efforts.

For more information about the ACE Act and its provisions, the full text of the bill is available on the official website.