A bill that would allow Michigan schools to offer firearms safety education is moving to the governor’s desk after passing in the state legislature. State Senator Jon Bumstead, a Republican from Norton Shores, voted in favor of the legislation and noted its long development.
“This optional course would offer kids a great opportunity to learn important lessons about hunter safety, which would be especially valuable for students who might not grow up in families with a tradition of hunting,” Bumstead said. “This is the result of years of hard work with the House and many invested parties, including the Michigan Department of Education and Department of Natural Resources, to find the right balance. I am grateful that we are finally getting this initiative over the finish line and to the governor.”
The legislation, House Bill 4285, is similar to Senate Bill 58 introduced by Bumstead earlier in February as well as previous proposals he sponsored. The measure does not require schools to teach firearms safety but allows them to include it as part of existing classes or as an extracurricular activity. Students completing the curriculum could receive credit for hunter safety education.
“Each school district would have the option of whether to offer the course, and parents could opt their child out,” Bumstead added. “This is about offering an option to learn about firearm safety, not forcing it on anyone.”
Under this bill, certified hunter education instructors would lead classes covering types of firearms, proper use and handling, safe cleaning practices, and safe hunting procedures. Real firearms or ammunition will not be used in classrooms.
Support for Bumstead’s bill came from organizations such as the Michigan Department of Education (MDE), Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Natural Resources Commission, Michigan United Conservation Clubs, Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, and National Rifle Association.
