NRA's Eddie Eagle program criticized for ineffectiveness in teaching child gun safety

Firearm safety took center stage during the New Hampshire House Criminal Justice and Public Safety meeting, with a strong emphasis on the responsibility of adults to secure firearms from children. Testimonies highlighted alarming statistics, noting that firearms have become the leading cause of death among children and teens in the U.S.

One speaker criticized the amendment to Senate Bill 54, describing it as confusing and ineffective. They pointed out that despite the National Rifle Association's Eddie Eagle Gun Safe program, which has reached over 30 million children since 1988, studies show that children struggle to resist unsecured guns. The speaker emphasized that existing programs fail to adequately teach children safe handling skills, leading to unintentional firearm injuries.

Research indicates that while some training programs utilize active learning strategies, they still do not ensure that children apply these skills outside of training contexts. The speaker concluded by reiterating that it is ultimately the adult's responsibility to secure firearms safely, underscoring the need for more effective educational strategies to promote gun safety.

Senator Altschuler also voiced opposition to the amendment, bringing an educational perspective to the discussion. The meeting underscored the critical need for improved firearm safety measures and the importance of adult accountability in preventing firearm-related tragedies among youth.