Monday: Senate to start work on sportsmen’s bill

The Senate starts at 2 p.m. on Monday, but no votes will occur until 5:30 p.m.

The Senate will vote to confirm Cheryl Krause to be a U.S. Circuit Judge for the Third Circuit and to end debate on the motion to proceed to the bipartisan sportsmen’s bill.

{mosads}S. 2363 aims to enhance opportunities for recreational hunting, fishing and shooting on federal lands.

Sen. Kay Hagan (D-N.C.) introduced the bill, which would be a boon for red-state Democrats in tough reelection races this year.

Other Democrats being targeted by the GOP have signed on as co-sponsors, including Sens. Mark Pryor (Ark.), Mark Begich (Alaska), Mary Landrieu (La.) and Mark Udall (Colo.). 

“In North Carolina, hunting, fishing and shooting are a way of life,” Hagan said. “Many of these traditions have been handed down through my own family, and I’m proud that our bill protects these activities for future generations while ensuring that outdoor recreation can continue to support jobs and local economies across the country.”

The bill would also reauthorize conservation programs and increase recreational use of federal lands.

Democrats have used similar legislation before to try to help incumbents fighting for reelection.

Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) introduced a similar bill while he was up for reelection in 2012, but Republicans filibustered it.

The House is not in session on Monday.

— Cristina Marcos contributed to this article.