Congressional Resolution Seeks to Establish August 2025 as National Shooting Sports Month

Bipartisan Legislative Effort Aims to Honor Firearms Industry Contributions

A new congressional resolution filed this week proposes officially designating August 2025 as "National Shooting Sports Month," recognizing the significant role that small firearms manufacturers play in America's economic landscape and sporting traditions.

The bicameral legislation, introduced on July 29 as Senate Resolution 342 and House Resolution 622, seeks to celebrate "the contributions of small manufacturers of firearms to the economy, culture, and recreational heritage of the United States."

Historical Context and Previous Recognition

This formal congressional approach builds upon earlier acknowledgments of the shooting sports community during August. While Congress has previously taken various official and semi-official steps to recognize the firearms industry during this month, such comprehensive bicameral resolutions have been less common.

Presidential Support in 2018

Notably, in 2018, President Donald Trump issued an official presidential message endorsing National Shooting Sports Month. However, that presidential declaration differed from the current congressional resolution, as it supported an existing annual initiative organized by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, the primary trade association representing the firearms industry.

Legislative Sponsors and Regional Impact

The resolution was spearheaded by two Republican legislators: Senator James Risch of Idaho and Representative Tony Wied of Wisconsin, representing their respective chambers of Congress.

Idaho's Manufacturing Heritage

"Idaho's small business firearm manufacturers drive innovation, prioritize responsible gun ownership, and protect our Second Amendment traditions," Senator Risch stated in an official Senate newsroom release. "I am proud to recognize these important American manufacturers and designate August as National Shooting Sports Month."

Wisconsin's Industry Presence

Representative Wied reinforced these sentiments while highlighting Wisconsin's substantial presence in the firearms manufacturing sector. The state serves as headquarters for several prominent industry brands, including Henry, Vortex, and Bravo Company MFG.

Current Legislative Status

Committee Assignment and Progress

The resolution currently remains in the initial phase of the legislative process, having been referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation for review and consideration. Progress appears temporarily stalled due to the current Congressional recess period.

Passage Projections and Support

According to GovTrack.us, a nonpartisan legislative tracking organization that monitors congressional bills and resolutions, the measure shows strong potential for advancement. The platform projects a 73-percent probability of passage, supported by 19 cosponsors representing both major political parties.

The cosponsor breakdown includes 18 Republican members and one Democratic member, demonstrating a level of bipartisan cooperation that has become increasingly rare in contemporary congressional proceedings.