The Minnesota State High School Clay Target League has voiced opposition to legislation that would ban lead ammunition used in school shooting sports.
The league, representing 12,000 middle and high school students, argues that clay shooting is not a public health issue and expresses concern over the cost of replacing lead bullets with non-toxic alternatives.
League spokesman Jason Kelvie emphasized that students understand their clay shooting activities are not related to harming animals or the environment. He highlighted the strict land reclamation programs at gun ranges, which help maintain environmental integrity.
Target League (Credits: FOX 9)
The proposed bill, SF 3792, seeks to ban lead ammunition in hunting and shooting sports facilities, requiring the use of non-toxic alternatives in school shooting sports.
The bill also prohibits the use of lead jigs and sinkers and includes provisions for a voucher and buy-back program. However, specific funding amounts have not yet been allocated.
Opponents of the legislation point out the financial burden of non-toxic ammunition, which can cost significantly more than traditional lead ammunition.
Concerns are also raised about the limited supply of ammunition, exacerbated by increased demand during periods of social unrest and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Senator Jennifer McEwen, the lead author of the Senate bill, acknowledges these concerns but emphasizes the importance of reducing lead exposure. Lead-based ammunition poses health risks not only to animals and the environment but also to individuals through ingestion of lead dust and vapors.
The Izaak Walton League of America, a national conservation organization, supports the bill, citing health risks associated with lead exposure. They argue that the health of students should take precedence over the cost of ammunition.
Lead exposure in children can lead to various health issues, including inattentiveness, aggression, and developmental problems. The league believes that banning lead ammunition is necessary to protect the health of students and wildlife.
Efforts to ban lead ammunition have faced opposition from advocacy groups, but environmental scientists argue that the harmful effects of lead exposure are well-documented, warranting action to reduce its use.
