CONCORD, NC - Today, Congressman Larry Kissell (NC-08) was relieved the Environmental Protection Agency for denying a petition that sought to ban the production and distribution of lead hunting ammunition. Last week, Kissell called on EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson to deny the claim.

"I remain committed to standing up for our Second Amendment rights," said Kissell. "I'm glad the EPA has chosen to stand down on this issue and honor the fact that it has no business regulating our ammunition."

The petition was filed earlier this month under the Toxic Substances Control Act. The EPA announced denial of the petition in a news release, stating that it does not have the legal authority to regulate that type of product under the TSCA.

"Anti-hunting groups' ammunition ban efforts will be met with strong opposition from the National Rifle Association. These groups use false data and emotion instead of sound science to further their failed political agenda.  That will not be tolerated by our nation's hunters and sportsmen,” said Chris W. Cox, executive director of NRA’s Institute for Legislative Action. “We appreciate Rep. Kissell's support of America’s hunters and sportsmen on this vital matter.”