The date was September 2, 1937 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt picked up a pen and signed the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act into law. The act is better known as the Pittman Robertson Act, for its sponsors, Nevada Senator Key Pittman and Virginia Congressman Absalom Robertson. The idea began over their lunch time conversations. Today, the 11% excise tax initially placed on firearms and ammunition has been expanded to include a 10% tax on handguns and an 11% tax on archery gear. One half of the tax on handguns may be used by the states for hunter safety programs. According the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, as of 2011, nearly $7 billion in funds has been returned to state fish and wildlife agencies.
Congratulations hunters and shooters on this 75-year Anniversary!