The Michigan House today approved Rep. Curt VanderWall’s plan to give local school districts the option to offer firearm safety education as an elective.

House Bill 4285 directs the Michigan Department of Education to consult with the Department of Natural Resources to develop a model firearm safety course by Sept. 1 of this year. The course, which could be offered as part of physical education or as an extracurricular option, must follow DNR safety standards and be taught by certified hunter education instructors.

Students who complete the course would also meet the state’s hunter safety requirement for obtaining a hunting license — an important step toward encouraging safe outdoor recreation and revitalizing Michigan’s hunting traditions.

“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. “But learning the safety of the sport is key for young and aspiring hunters. That’s why I’m working to empower schools and families to teach responsible firearm handling and promote outdoor heritage in a safe, structured way — if they choose. No one is forced to participate, but those who do will gain valuable skills that will not only benefit them, but every sportsman in their vicinity during hunting season.”

Under the bill, no firearms or ammunition would be allowed on school property during instruction. The course content would include safe handling, cleaning and maintenance, types of firearms, and safe hunting practices. Parents or guardians may opt their child out of the course without any academic penalty.

If a school district decides not to offer this course, a student could still take the course for credit in a neighboring school district that does offer the course, if they have a cooperative education program as outlined under Michigan’s School Aid Act.

The legislation comes amid a nationwide decline in hunting participation and rise in Michigan’s deer population, and aims to increase access to education that supports both safety and conservation efforts.

The legislation now moves to the Senate for further consideration.

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