Protect The Harvest | Federal Funding Blocked for Hunting and Firearms Education in Schools

In a stroke of his pen, President Biden struck down essential federal funding that has historically supported hunting and archery education and safety programs in schools. Funding had been provided for 58 years under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) of 1965.

Funding was cut upon Biden signing into law the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), which was passed in both the House and Senate in June of 2022, and supported by gun control advocacy groups that oppose the 2nd amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

The bill was created with the broad, non-specified, talking point goal of offering “safer, more inclusive and positive” environments for students. Part of that legislation was an amendment to ESEA that would halt any funds involving “training in the use of a dangerous weapon.” No mention was made of those who are untrained in firearms and archery being potentially more of a hazard.

A loss for firearms safety and student activity

As a result of this legislation being signed into law, Tommy Floyd, President of the National Archery in the Schools Program reached out to the news media citing his deep disappointment. This law eliminates essential safety training for the handling of firearms by young people. It also removes an opportunity for students to experience the many valuable lessons and benefits of shooting sports, including personal development, improving skills and confidence-