MD SB181

Department of Natural Resources must require nonlead ammunition (less than 1% lead content or federally approved nontoxic) for hunting all game species by July 1, 2029

Phased implementation timeline: pen-raised birds on regulated shooting areas by July 1, 2027; upland game birds, webless migratory game birds, and wild turkey by July 1, 2028; deer and all remaining game species by July 1, 2029

Lead ammunition remains authorized for muzzleloaders, handguns, rifles, and shotguns if nonlead ammunition is not commercially available for the specific weapon

Bill cites over 500 peer-reviewed studies finding no safe level of lead exposure, concerns about lead fragments in game meat consumed by hunters and food bank recipients, and wildlife poisoning including bald eagles

Effective date: July 1, 2026