Idaho lawmakers reject bill calling for gun-safety classes in the state’s schools

BOISE – After much debate, an Idaho House panel rejected legislation Tuesday encouraging the state’s schools to offer elective gun-safety classes.

Rep. Ron Nate, R-Rexburg, wanted to permit the use of firearms in the classes but ban live ammunition. House Education Committee members, who voted 9-6 to kill the bill raised questions about logistics and costs.

Among North Idaho members of the committee, Reps. Paul Amador, R-Coeur d’Alene, and Don Cheatham, R-Post Falls, voted with the majority to kill the bill; Reps. Paul Shepherd, R-Riggins; and Ron Mendive, R-Coeur d’Alene, dissented.