NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — With hunting and archery programs in schools across the country — including Tennessee — at risk of losing federal funding, national lawmakers decided to get involved.
Earlier this month, U.S. Rep. Mark Green (R-Tenn.) introduced the Protecting Hunting Heritage and Education Act — cosponsored by U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson (R-N.C.) — after the Biden administration reportedly barred such programs from receiving federal education funding.
“We should encourage students to participate in enriching athletic activities that foster an appreciation for nature and the ability to focus on a goal, not discourage and defund them,” Green said in a statement.
The U.S. Department of Education (ED) has since agreed to work with Congress to restore funding for extracurricular shooting sports in public schools, according to officials.
“ED recognizes the limits this language may place on certain enrichment opportunities with ESEA funding,” said a Department of Education spokesperson. “We are happy to provide technical assistance on legislative language …