Firearm Industry Contributed $17 Billion to Wildlife Conservation Since 1937

In May 2024, the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) revealed that manufacturers in the firearms and ammunition industry have contributed over $17 billion in excise taxes to the Wildlife Restoration Trust Fund since its establishment in 1937. When accounting for inflation, this contribution reaches an impressive $27.38 billion.

As reported by American Rifleman, according to the latest Firearms and Ammunition Excise Tax (FAET) Collection report from the Department of the Treasury, covering the fourth quarter of 2023, these manufacturers generated more than $222 million in contributions during that three-month period alone.

"This milestone exemplifies our industry's enduring dedication to wildlife conservation that benefits all Americans," said NSSF President and CEO Joe Bartozzi. "The firearms and ammunition industry recognizes that preserving wildlife and their habitats is invaluable. These conservation efforts are essential for future generations to participate in hunting traditions and recreational shooting sports while understanding their significance. Our industry not only produces firearms and ammunition for law-abiding citizens but also generates the critical funding that supports wildlife preservation for generations to come."

The industry's contributions have accelerated recently, with $1 billion added to conservation funding in just one year. For three consecutive years, FAET contributions have exceeded $1 billion annually.

The Wildlife Restoration Trust Fund, commonly referred to as the Pittman-Robertson fund, collects excise taxes paid by manufacturers of firearms, ammunition, and archery equipment. The tax rate is set at 11 percent of the wholesale price for long guns and ammunition, while handguns are taxed at 10 percent of wholesale price. This tax applies to all commercially produced or imported firearms intended for recreational shooting, hunting, or self-defense purposes.

The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau of the Department of the Treasury oversees the collection of these taxes before transferring the funds to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). The USFWS then deposits these Pittman-Robertson revenues into the dedicated Wildlife Restoration Trust Fund. These funds become available to states and territories in the year following their collection, with distribution based on a predetermined statutory formula.