Biden will decide funding fate for archery, hunters’ safety programs in schools

lschultz • September 28, 2023

In early August, conservation and shooting sports organizations learned of an improper interpretation of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) that prevented schools from receiving federal funding if they have archery or hunter safety programs.

Knowing how important these programs are to childhood maturation and safety, conservation nonprofits across the country immediately called for a reinterpretation.

MUCC and other conservation stakeholders nationwide sent a letter to Department of Education Secretary Cardona urging a re-issuance of guidance. The letter was also sent to the entire Michigan congressional delegation urging a permanent fix to the problem.

On Tuesday, the United States House of Representatives voted 424-1 to fix the misinterpreted language within the BSCA, followed Wednesday by a unanimous vote in the Senate. The new language now heads to the President’s desk for approval.

“These programs teach life-long skills and are critical to engaging youth in our outdoor heritage, and tens of thousands of kids benefit from them, grow through them and take away confidence and personal responsibility,” Trotter said. “Congress overwhelmingly agrees with this assessment, and these vital programs will now continue to operate in our schools. We appreciate their swift and decisive action to fix this.”

To ensure our natural resources remain protected and managed thoughtfully and our outdoor heritage defended, join Michigan United Conservation Clubs today: http://bit.ly/JoinMUCC .    

Recent Posts

June 2025 NRC Recap

By Justin Tomei • June 12, 2025
The Natural Resources Commission met today in Bay City. There were no orders for information or action on the agenda. The big news was the commission brought back up the order to reinstate the year-round coyote season, and a vote will happen in August to satisfy posting and notice requirements. MUCC created the Coyote Coalition to put pressure on the NRC, and with today’s inaction, we know that it’s working. With the continued support of the coalition, we will continue fighting to protect proposal G. Consider joining the Coyote Coalition , and let the commission know that inaction is not acceptable, and to follow their legal charge and responsibility. Chair Becky Humphries announced new committee memberships. Wildlife Committee will be chaired by Commissioner John Walters, Governance, Finance and Policy will be chaired by Chair Humphries, Fisheries will be chaired by Commissioner Dave Anthony. There were no other orders for information or action. The next meeting returns to Lansing on July 10.

Conservation Cohort: Training Young Conservationists

By Olivia Triltsch • June 12, 2025
Last week on June 3rd and June 4th, Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) hosted a two-day training for young professionals.

PlayCleanGo Awareness Week: Taking Action on Invasive Species

By Katelyn Helsel • June 11, 2025
This week marks the annual PlayCleanGo Awareness Week , taking place from June 7-14. Hosted by the North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA), this week encourages outdoor enthusiasts to help stop the spread of invasive species through simple actions. This year’s theme, “Partnering Together to Protect Our Favorite Places”, focuses on the importance of collaboration with Invasives Canada and CONABIO to illustrate how actions can create meaningful change across North America.
More Posts