A new bill in Utah has stirred up controversy as it aims to incentivize teachers to carry guns on school campuses. The bill, known as House Bill 119, establishes the “Educator-Protector Program” which provides state-funded training for teachers to responsibly secure or carry firearms in schools.
Under the measure, teachers with a valid concealed carry permit can participate in an annual program that trains them to defend their classrooms against active threats and safely handle firearms in a school setting. The training would be provided by instructors appointed by county sheriffs, costing the Department of Public Safety about $100,000 annually.
Supporters of the bill argue that it is a logical next step, considering that those with concealed carry permits in Utah are already allowed to carry firearms in schools. Clark Aposhian, a member of the Utah Shooting Sports Council, stated that the bill incentivizes additional classroom-type training for the defense of classrooms. He emphasized that teachers are often the first responders during a school shooting.
Brian Peterson, a sixth-grade teacher, expressed his support for the bill, stating that knowing how to defend a classroom, whether with a weapon or improvised means, is crucial for teachers. Peterson believes that the training provided would be invaluable in ensuring the safety of students.
However, opponents of the bill argue that having more guns on school campuses could potentially increase the danger for students. Emergency nurse Jade Christensen raised concerns about expecting teachers to make split-second decisions in high-stress situations, which may blur the line between their core responsibilities and the burden of safeguarding students.
Stan Holmes, a U.S. Army veteran with extensive teaching experience, criticized the training he received years ago, deeming it a “joke.” He believes that it failed to adequately prepare teachers to handle crisis situations.
Participating teachers who choose not to carry a gun would be required to pay for a biometric gun safe out of pocket. The bill also provides protection from civil liability for teachers who use their firearms on campus while “acting in good faith” and without gross negligence. It also shields school districts from liability if a participating teacher fires their weapon on school grounds.
The bill has divided Utah residents, with gun control advocates urging Republican Governor Spencer Cox to veto the legislation. They argue that the potential risks outweigh the benefits of arming teachers.
If signed into law, the bill will go into effect on May 1, marking a significant change in Utah’s approach to school safety.
