“This legislation might be good politics for downstate politicians, but its terrible public policy. The bill, A.10428, would ban educational and extracurricular programs that promote safety and inclusiveness. The New York State High School Clay Target League requires all shooters to complete a comprehensive firearms safety course and provides accommodations so students with a wide range of physical abilities can participate. Archery programs allow students of various age levels and athletic abilities to compete against one another in a safe setting that engenders an appreciation for our natural environment and the outdoors. To claim that a responsible student shouldn’t learn how to safely handle a firearm because deranged people have used assault weapons to attack schools just doesn’t make any sense.

“These programs are a part of our way of life in upstate New York. It’s a vibrant part of our culture. Downstate politicians consistently tell us that their efforts at gun control will respect sportsmen and responsible, safe ownership of firearms, but this betrays that effort. I’m hopeful this bill will never see the floor for a vote, but if it does, I’ll be encouraging my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote no.