Bill to Remove Hunter’s Ed in Public Schools Struck Down in House

I have noticed that I am beginning to sound and act like my Dad. I find myself watching the news every day and just shaking my head in disgust at some of the things people are doing. Not to mention what the Government is doing. But, this post isn't all about politics. It is about preserving our hunting heritage and love for the outdoors.

Just take one look at how many registered hunters call Montana home.

Why is the Government trying to defund Hunter's Education in public schools?

A few months ago, a bill was presented to the US Congress called the "Safer Communities Act." This bill aimed to remove funding from schools that continue to host programs like hunter's education or other shooting sports like archery.

According to Montana's Superintendent Elsie Arntzen

20 U.S.C. § 7906 prohibits the use of many Federal education funds ‘for the provision to any person of a dangerous weapon, as defined in section 930(g)(2) of title 18, or training in the use of a dangerous weapon.’ Under that Federal law, a ‘dangerous weapon’ includes things ‘used for, or is readily capable of, causing death or serious bodily injury’.

So training kids how to safely handle a firearm or even a sling shot can be considered unlawful in public schools. For many Montanans, including myself, we view this proposed bill is ridiculous.

It appears that the voices of those opposed are being heard in our nation's capitol.

According to advocacy group Backcountry Hunter's and Angler's

Last night, following advocacy by BHA, the House of Representatives passed the Protecting Hunting Heritage and Education Act with a near-unanimous vote! This critical legislation would restore funding for hunter education and shooting sports programs in public schools that has been withheld following the Department of Education’s interpretation of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act to prohibit training with a “deadly weapon.” This legislation will help to ensure that we continue to foster the next generation of responsible hunters and anglers.

This is great news for Montana families. Programs like hunter's education are created to teach how to respect and safely handle a firearm. In my opinion, it is the kids who treat firearms as toys and with zero respect that we should be worried about. It is an important skill to learn and pass on to others.