The Kansas House says BB gun shooting clubs should be allowed on public school property. The bill comes after the Derby School District closed down a BB gun club over safety concerns. Republican Representative Blake Carpenter, from Derby, says the bill gives students another option for activities.
“I would like for this this sport to be treated like all the other sports that our kids play today in high school or middle school athletics. Its injury rate is far less than football, basketball, baseball,” Carpenter says.
Critics of the bill say local school boards should decide whether BB gun shooting clubs are allowed. Democratic Representative Annie Tietze brought up liability concerns.
“If Aunt Millie comes to town and wants to see those young people practice –Aunt Millie gets shot in the eye- she can sue the school,” Tietze says.
The bill will be up for a final vote in the House on Thursday.