LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Some Lansing lawmakers are backing a bill that would allow schools to offer firearm safety programs.

Proper usage, storage, and maintenance of firearms.

House Bill 4285 would create an elective firearm safety program available to all schools. The curriculum would be developed by the Michigan Department of Education and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Course materials would include proper usage and handling of firearms, safe cleaning and maintenance of firearms, and safe hunting practices.

MORE NEWS: Whee! Belle Isle Giant Slide Reopens for Summer Thrills.

“Like most northern Michigan residents, I’ve loved the outdoors for as long as I can remember,” said Rep. Parker Fairbairn (R-Harbor Springs), co-sponsor of the bill. “My brother and I attended hunter’s safety years ago, and we still enjoy hunting together and with our dad. I’m proud to support legislation that will allow schools to offer students the opportunity to take hunter’s safety.”

Hunting license requirements.

In addition, the course meets Michigan’s hunter safety requirement for obtaining a hunting license. Rep. Curt VanderWall (R-Ludington) said, “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. “But learning the safety of the sport is key for young and aspiring hunters.”

VanderWall also added, “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.”

Local school boards could offer the course as part of physical education classes or an optional extracurricular class. Students can opt out of firearm safety instruction without it affecting their academic credit.

The bill, which has moved from the House to the Senate, could trigger the hunter safety classes to be offered in schools this fall. That would happen if the Senate passes the bill and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signs it into law.