SENATE BILL REPORT

SJM 8006

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As Reported by Senate Committee On:

Early Learning & K-12 Education, February 21, 2013

Brief Description: Promoting the use of the Eddie Eagle GunSafe Program in preschools, early learning programs, and schools.

Majority Report: Do pass.

Signed by Senators Litzow, Chair; Dammeier, Vice Chair; McAuliffe, Ranking Member; Brown, Cleveland, Fain, Hill, Mullet and Rivers.

Minority Report: That it be referred without recommendation.

Signed by Senators Rolfes, Assistant Ranking Member; Billig.

Background: The National Rifle Association (NRA), education professionals, urban housing safety officials, clinical psychologists, and law enforcement developed the Eddie Eagle GunSafe Program (Program). The Program started in 1988, and is designed for children in prekindergarten through the third grade. The Program aims to keep children safe should they encounter a gun. Children who participate in the Program receive certificates of merit, stickers, and posters.

Summary of Bill: A memorial is to be sent to the Superintendent of Public Instruction, the directors of all licensed child care, preschool, early learning programs, and the superintendent of each public school district in Washington.

The memorial encourages licensed child care, preschool, early learning programs, and the school districts of Washington to promote the use of the Program in licensed child care, preschool, early learning programs, and schools to help prevent firearm accidents among children.