Representative Paul Davis, a republican from Sangerville, introduced L.D. 93, a proposal requiring high schools to offer a gun safety and education course, to the state’s legislature. The Portland Press reported on February 14, 2013, that the proposal has stirred up quite a controversy among educators.
Dick Durost, Maine Principal’s Association Executive Committee director, says that most communities in Maine already have such programs through local gun clubs and through Fish and Game. Durost stated that since the shootings in Conn., the subject of guns in schools has become a heated issue. Forcing high schools to teach a gun safety class could cause division and uneeded controversy among communities.
Rep. Davis feels that high schools should offer a firearm safety and handling course as an elective. He feels that the cost of the program could be offset by having an instructor from a local gun club teach the class.
Guns in schools has been a heated topic ever since the Conn. shooting. Should schools be required to teach gun safety? With stories about children bringing guns to schools appearing in the new everyday, maybe it is time the schools step up and start teaching gun safety. If L.D. 93 passes, high school students in Maine will have a chance to learn about firearm safety without having to go outside of the school system.
Lynda Altman feels that all schools should provide a safe learning environment. She feels that parents should be informed of legislation that might impact the welfare of their children. You can reach her using the contact button at the top of the page or on Twitter @fusgeyer.
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