This bill mandates the development and implementation of a model program for firearm, hunting, and wildlife instruction for students in grades six through eight across various educational institutions, including school districts and accredited nonpublic schools. The program, which must be developed by the director of the department of natural resources in consultation with the department of public safety, will cover topics such as firearm safety, Iowa hunting laws, wildlife conservation, and emergency preparedness. Schools are required to offer this program as part of their physical education, health, or science curricula, or as an extracurricular activity, with practical components conducted under controlled conditions. Parental consent is required for student participation, and students can be excused from participation upon request.

Additionally, the bill establishes that the completion of this model program will be recognized as successful completion of approved firearm safety training. It also requires that instructors have completed a hunter education course and approved firearm safety training. The director of the department of natural resources is tasked with maintaining a database of students who complete the program and issuing certificates of completion. The bill includes provisions for annual reporting on student participation and mandates that the costs associated with compliance be covered by state school foundation aid. These requirements will take effect for school years beginning on or after July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 80.5, 455A.4, 280.36