On Thursday, the Arizona House of Representatives passed HB 2448, a bill sponsored by Rep. Quang Nguyen which requires firearms accident prevention education to be provided to Arizona public school students in grades 6 and above.
“Whether a person chooses to own a firearm or not, most agree that it’s very important to understand how to be safe around one,” said Nguyen. “Children of all ages are especially at risk without fundamental safety education. We have a responsibility to ensure they are protected. Providing safety education is the best way to reduce the occurrence of tragic accidents that result from the mishandling of a firearm.”
Certified instructors would provide the safety training in one or more sessions, in an age-appropriate manner. Instruction would not involve firearms operation or qualification or hunting education. Parents who do not wish their child to receive safety training would have the ability to opt-out.
Currently, state statute states that the Arizona Game and Fish Department may provide training in the safe handling and use of bows or firearms for schools that request this instruction. Statute further stipulates that any firearm or bow training may only be offered as an elective credit
for students, according to the House staff overview.
In addition to voluntary training in the use of bows and firearms, A.R.S. § 15-714.01 allows any school district or charter school, to offer the Arizona gun safety program course as an elective course in firearm marksmanship.
Supporters say Nguyen’s bill will save lives by equipping kids with the knowledge they need to avoid dangerous situations.
“For so many kids, accidents happen because they’re curious or they don’t respect how serious and dangerous a gun can be. Obviously, if a parent doesn’t want their kid to take the class then they don’t have to, but I think a lot of parents will be happy that their kid gets professional guidance in why you don’t touch guns and how to alert adults when you see or find one.” said one Arizona parent who was present to support passage of the bill.
While the bill dealt with keeping kids safely away from firearms, it was considered a “gun bill”, so all House Democrats voted against it and the bill passed along party lines.