North Michigan News

The Michigan House has approved a proposal by Representative Curt VanderWall, allowing local school districts to offer firearm safety education as an elective course. House Bill 4285 mandates the Michigan Department of Education to collaborate with the Department of Natural Resources to develop a model course by September 1. This course could be integrated into physical education or offered as an extracurricular activity, adhering to DNR safety standards and taught by certified hunter education instructors.

Completion of the course would fulfill the state's hunter safety requirement for obtaining a hunting license. VanderWall emphasized the importance of this initiative in communities where hunting is deeply ingrained. "In communities like the ones I represent in Northern Michigan, hunting isn’t just a pastime, it is a long-held tradition and a way of life," said VanderWall, R-Ludington. He highlighted that learning about safety is crucial for young hunters and that schools have the option to teach responsible firearm handling if they choose.

No firearms or ammunition will be permitted on school property during instruction under this bill. The curriculum will cover safe handling, cleaning and maintenance of firearms, types of firearms, and safe hunting practices. Parents can opt their children out without academic consequences.

If a district opts not to provide this course, students may take it in neighboring districts through cooperative education programs outlined in Michigan’s School Aid Act.

This legislation addresses declining hunting participation nationwide while aiming to bolster safety and conservation efforts amid rising deer populations in Michigan. The bill now proceeds to the Senate for further review.