HOUSE BILL ANALYSIS

                 SJM 8009

Brief Description:  Promoting the use of the Eddie Eagle Gun Safety Program in our schools.

Sponsors:  Senators Rasmussen, Roach, Hochstatter, Hargrove, Stevens, Wood, Long, Loveland, Winsley and Kohl.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON

EDUCATION

Meeting Date:  April 1, 1997.

Staff Contact:  Joe Hauth (786-7111).

Background:  The National Rifle Association, in cooperation with education professionals and others, has developed the Eddie Eagle Gun Safety Program.  The program is designed for children in pre-kindergarten through sixth grade.  It teaches the fundamentals of firearms safety to children and emphasizes correct safety procedures through workbooks, games, a video, class discussion, and role-playing scenarios.  Eddie Eagle is the program's feathered mascot.

Summary of Bill:  A memorial is to be sent to the Superintendent of Public Instruction, and each public school district in the state.  The memorial encourages school districts to promote the use of the National Rifle Association's Eddie Eagle Gun Safety Program to help prevent firearms accidents among children.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.