Mason Bill Would Allow Gun Safety Courses in Schools

GURNEE, Ill. – Schools would have the option to provide firearm safety education to students under legislation introduced by state Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee.

“Solving the issue of widespread gun violence will require a multi-faceted approach,” Mason said. “Proactively promoting safe and responsible firearm use for those who either choose to arm themselves or spend a considerable amount of time around guns is a critical part of that solution.”

Mason’s House Bill 3173 would allow school districts to begin offering firearm safety courses to students as part of their daytime or after-school curriculum. Mason’s measure does not require students to enroll in such courses, nor does it mandate the implementation of them. Rather, House Bill 3173 changes state law so that schools may offer classes about gun safety to students if they wish. Actual firearms would not be permitted to be used in the courses.

While individuals younger than 18-years-old cannot legally own firearms in Illinois, they may use guns for recreational purposes such as hunting.

“For young people who hunt or have family members with guns, it’s vital that they have access to comprehensive, fact-based gun safety guidance,” Mason said. “My legislation would make it possible for those young people to get that knowledge while they’re in the school setting, a place where they’re already spending a great deal of their time learning other important life skills each week.”

Mason’s House Bill 3173 is being supported by a bipartisan group of legislators and is currently being considered on the House floor.