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Bill

H 5353

Firearm Safety Pilot Program

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lucas Atkinson and 57 co-sponsors

South Carolina proposes a voluntary firearm safety pilot program to educate residents on responsible gun handling and storage practices through designated training initiatives.

Referred to Committee on Education and Public Works
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Bill Summary · H 5353

Legislative bill overview

H 5353 establishes a voluntary firearm safety pilot program in South Carolina, likely designed to educate students or the public on responsible gun handling and storage. The bill creates a framework for implementing safety training initiatives across designated pilot locations, with specific curricula and instructor qualifications to be determined through the legislative process.

Why is this important

Firearm safety education can reduce unintentional injuries and deaths, particularly among youth. The pilot program approach allows the state to test effectiveness and scalability before potential statewide implementation, generating data on program costs, participation rates, and measurable safety outcomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Age appropriateness and curriculum design – Disagreement over what age groups should receive training, how firearms are presented (safety vs. marksmanship), and whether programs should emphasize avoidance or handling skills
  • Public vs. private implementation – Questions about whether schools should host programs, whether 4-H/Boy Scouts should lead instruction, or if community ranges and private instructors should participate
  • Funding and scope – Uncertainty about pilot program costs, which districts participate, whether participation is mandatory or voluntary, and long-term budget implications if expanded statewide

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

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