Senate Republicans and Democrats have jointly voiced opposition to the Biden administration’s interpretation of legislation affecting funding for school hunting education and archery programs. The Department of Education’s guidance in July indicated that hunting and archery programs in schools would no longer receive federal funding. This decision was based on the administration’s interpretation of the 2022 Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), which was seen as prohibiting certain programs involving “technically dangerous weapons” from receiving taxpayer funds.
A letter led by Sen. John Cornyn, signed by nine Republicans and nine Democrats, was addressed to Education Secretary Miguel Cardona. It criticized the Department of Education’s interpretation of the law and emphasized the importance of archery and hunter safety programs in schools.
Another letter, sent to Senate Appropriations Committee leaders, was signed by six Republicans and 11 Democrats, including Sens. Cornyn, Thom Tillis, Kyrsten Sinema, and Chris Murphy. This letter called on the committee to reject the Department of Education’s interpretation of the BSCA and ensure that such programs receive funding.
These efforts reflect bipartisan concerns that the administration’s interpretation of the law has led to the elimination of valuable educational programs in schools. Critics argue that these programs teach firearm safety, wildlife conservation, and personal responsibility, and they should align with the intent of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) to support student achievement and well-being.
The Biden administration has not yet responded to these letters.