On October 1, President Trump signed into law a short-term funding bill to fund the federal government at current spending levels until December 11. The measure includes a provision that extends the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund until October 1, 2021– a significant priority for the recreational boating industry

Funded through excise taxes on fishing equipment, motorboat and small engine fuel, the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund provides grant funds to U.S. states and the District of Columbia to improve and maintain boating access, fisheries, and education programs for anglers and sportsmen.

Passage of this funding bill punts full reauthorization of the Trust Fund down the road until next year. Until then, our industry will continue to work with Congress to ensure that this Trust Fund is reauthorized as part of a larger infrastructure package.

Members of Congress are expected to return to their home districts to campaign through the election on November 3, unless there is a breakthrough in negotiations for another stimulus package to address COVID-19.

For additional information, please contact MRAA government relations manager Adam Fortier-Brown at adam@mraa.com.