An increased demand for lead-free bullets has led American Elements ^[1] to announce the expansion its bismuth metal facilities.  

The new production capacity will affect deliveries beginning in October 2008. Recent changes in state and local laws requiring that lead-free projectiles be used for hunting game in certain restricted areas has increased demand for various forms of the metal, including shot, granules and needles. American Elements now offers all three in 99%, 99.9%, and 99.99% purities. For example, last December the California Department of Fish and Game modified its authorized methods for hunting certain big game including deer, bear and elk in its condor range to lead-free projectiles only.

Find the complete article here ^[2].