SALT LAKE CITY – Utah students could soon be required to learn firearm safety in the classroom as early as kindergarten under a newly passed bill in the state House.
The measure, which received overwhelming support in a 59-10 vote, now heads to the Republican-led Senate despite concerns from gun violence prevention advocates who argue that it places an unnecessary burden on children rather than adults.
What the Bill Proposes
The legislation mandates that public school students receive firearm safety instruction throughout their K-12 education. The curriculum would include:
- Mandatory lessons on how to respond if a student encounters a gun.
- Instruction delivered through videos or live demonstrations, possibly featuring an actual firearm to showcase proper handling and storage techniques.
- Three separate firearm safety lessons for elementary school students before sixth grade—potentially starting as early as kindergarten.
Purpose and Support for the Bill
Republican Rep. Rex Shipp of Cedar City, the bill’s sponsor, believes the age-appropriate instruction will help prevent accidental shootings involving young children.
“A lot of times when they don’t have any firearms in their homes or don’t do any hunting and shooting, then these kids are not taught what to do when they come in contact with a firearm,” Shipp explained.
If passed in the Senate and signed into law, the lessons would begin next school year. The bill also includes an opt-out option for parents who do not want their children to participate.
Comparison to Other States
Currently, Tennessee is the only other state with a law mandating firearm safety education in public schools. However, unlike Utah’s proposal, Tennessee’s law:
- Allows education officials to determine which grade level should receive firearm training.
- Forbids the inclusion of live firearms or ammunition in the lessons.
- Requires annual instruction beginning next school year.
Opposition and Concerns
While some gun safety advocates commend Utah Republicans for prioritizing firearm education, others argue that the responsibility should fall on adults, not children.
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Gun Violence Prevention Groups Speak Out
Barbara Gentry, a representative from the Gun Violence Prevention Center of Utah, believes the bill shifts responsibility away from adult gun owners.
“Guns and gun safety are the responsibility of the adult gun owner, not school children,” Gentry said. “We support schools sending home materials to parents outlining the importance of safe storage in keeping our families and schools safe from gun violence.”
Jaden Christensen, a volunteer with the Utah chapter of Moms Demand Action, echoed similar concerns, stating that lawmakers should focus on expanding programs that educate parents about firearm storage.
“The burden should always be on adults,” Christensen said.
Firearm Safety Next Steps
The bill now moves to the Utah Senate, where it is expected to receive strong support. If passed and signed into law, firearm safety lessons would begin in Utah public schools next school year.
The debate continues: Should schools be responsible for firearm safety training, or should the focus be on adult gun owners?
