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HD 1186

An Act relative to the Civilian Marksmanship Program

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by David DeCoste and 1 co-sponsor

Authorizes the Civilian Marksmanship Program to operate shooting ranges and firearms training in Massachusetts, removing current operational prohibitions.

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Bill Summary · HD 1186

Legislative bill overview

HD 1186 would authorize the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) to operate shooting ranges and conduct firearms training activities in Massachusetts. The bill removes current restrictions that effectively prohibit CMP operations in the state, allowing the federally chartered nonprofit organization to provide marksmanship instruction and competitive shooting opportunities to civilians, including youth.

Why this is important

The CMP is a congressionally chartered organization that has operated shooting programs nationwide for over a century, emphasizing firearm safety and marksmanship discipline. For Massachusetts residents, this would create new opportunities for legal firearms training and competitive shooting sports, though it also represents a significant expansion of shooting range activities in a state with among the nation's strictest gun regulations.

Potential points of contention

  • Gun regulation philosophy: Supporters view this as expanding access to federally approved safety training; opponents may see it as loosening firearms restrictions in a state with strong gun control policies
  • Youth firearm access: The bill's allowance for youth participation aligns with CMP's traditional junior programs but raises concerns among those prioritizing youth gun safety restrictions
  • Range operations: Questions about where ranges would operate, their proximity to populated areas, noise impacts, and environmental considerations remain undefined in the bill language

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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