WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congress and the Biden Administration should act quickly, in bipartisan fashion, to amend language in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act to ensure that schools can continue to access Department of Education funding for archery and hunter safety education programs. Research has shown that instilling a love of nature in children through a variety of outdoor education classes helps improve physical and mental wellness and grow the next generation of conservationists.

“For decades, hunter education programs in schools have taught students about wildlife management, firearm and archery safety, wilderness survival skills, and conservation. Perhaps most importantly, these programs instill in children a deep respect and appreciation for wildlife and the great outdoors,” said Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. “When Congress returns in September, both chambers should move quickly to pass a bipartisan, durable solution so these important enrichment programs can continue to receive funding through the Elementary and Secondary Education Act.”