ARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Fifty-sixth Legislature First Regular Session
	House: MAPS DP 8-7-0-0-0 | 3^rd Read DPA 31-28-0-1  Senate: ED DP 4-3-0-0 | 3^rd Read DP 16-13-0-1

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HB 2332: firearms safety; training; schools

Sponsor: Representative Bliss, LD 1

Transmitted to the Governor

Overview

Requires school districts and charter schools to provide one or more firearms safety training sessions.

History

Statute currently states that the Arizona Game and Fish Department may provide training in the safe handling and use of bows or firearms for schools that request this instruction (A.R.S. § 15-713). Statute further stipulates that any firearm or bow training may only be offered as an elective credit for students (A.R.S. § 15-714).

In addition to voluntary training in the use of bows and firearms, statute allows any school district or charter school to offer a one semester, one credit elective course in firearm marksmanship designated as the Arizona Gun Safety Program Course (A.R.S. § 15-714.01).

Provisions

1. Requires school districts and charter schools to provide students in grades 6-12 with one or more firearms safety training sessions in an age-appropriate manner beginning July 1, 2024. (Sec. 1)

2. Outlines that the firearms safety training session must be based on a firearms accident prevention program that meets the following requirements:

a) Has been in operation for over 30 years;

b) Seeks to help parents, law enforcement, community groups and educators navigate firearm safety;

c) Was developed by a task force of specified individuals; and

d) Teaches simple and easy steps for individuals to remember when encountering a firearm. (Sec. 1)

3. Asserts that a teacher or administrator who facilitates or oversees the training sessions is not required to be a certified firearms safety instructor. (Sec. 1)

4. Specifies that a school district or charter school may, for the purpose of firearms safety training, use:

a) An active or retired police officer;

b) An instructor certified by a recognized national or state association; or

c) A teacher or faculty member certified by a recognized national or state association. (Sec. 1)

5. Prohibits training on firearm operation or qualification and on hunting education. (Sec. 1)

6. Directs the school district or charter school to notify the students' parents two weeks before training and to allow them to opt-out of the training. (Sec. 1)

7. Allows a student to be excused if either the parent requests it, or the student has a disability and is excused by the student's individualized education program team. (Sec. 1)

8. Permits a school district or charter school to accept donations of materials, equipment or services that may be used for training, except that working or live firearms may not be accepted. (Sec. 1)

9. Contains a legislative intent clause. (Sec. 2) 

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                        HB 2332

Initials NM/CV Page 0 Transmitted

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