Staff Reports
In a stunning display of bipartisanship, Congress has sent legislation to President Biden aimed at stopping his administration from defunding shooting-sports programs in schools. The bill, known as the Protecting Hunting Heritage and Education Act, clarifies that federal education funds can still be used for training in archery, hunting, and other shooting sports.
Both the House and Senate passed the bill with veto-proof supermajorities. The House approved it by an overwhelming margin of 424-1, with the lone dissenter being Rep. Veronica Escobar, a Texas Democrat. The Senate unanimously consented to the bill on Wednesday, highlighting the broad support for protecting these programs.
Biden plans to sign legislation reversing administration’s move to defund shooting sports in schoolshttps://t.co/T3vbATRlPZ pic.twitter.com/EQ5dwyTmmU
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) September 29, 2023
The Biden Administration’s attempt to defund these programs came in the wake of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which was designed to prevent mass shootings. However, 24 state attorneys general took issue with the interpretation of the law by the Education Department, arguing that it was overreaching and cancelling important programs in hunting education, shooting, and archery.
Republican Reps. Mark Green of Tennessee and Richard Hudson of North Carolina introduced the legislation in the House, with Montana Democrat Sen. Jon Tester filing a companion measure in the Senate. These lawmakers emphasized the importance of hunting and shooting sports education, not only for practical skills but also for promoting public safety, confidence, and camaraderie among students.
The overwhelming support for this legislation reflects a rejection of the Department of Education’s attempt to impose a radical agenda on our children. It is a victory for rural America and for the values of the hunting and shooting community. President Biden plans to sign the bill, signaling a recognition of the bipartisan consensus on protecting these critical safety courses.
