Hunter Education in Schools Passes Tennessee Legislature Amid National Outdoor Policy Battles | TSV Roundup Week of March 16th, 2026

A major win for hunters in Tennessee collides with rising policy fights over hunting, trapping, and outdoor traditions nationwide. Momentum for hunting and fishing access continues across the country, but not without resistance. This week’s roundup breaks down the policy battles shaping the future of the outdoors, from hunter education in schools to constitutional protections for hunting and fishing. Tennessee delivered a major victory for the hunting community as legislation allowing hunter education courses in public schools cleared the legislature and now awaits the governor’s signature. The proposal would allow students in grades 5 through 12 to complete their hunter safety education during school hours, earning academic credit while learning firearm safety, wildlife conservation, and responsible outdoor participation. For young hunters, it creates a new pathway into the field and strengthens the future of the hunting tradition. Elsewhere, the fight proved tougher. A push to add the right to hunt and fish to the New Hampshire constitution fell just short in the state legislature after a close vote and a heated debate over wildlife policy and outdoor heritage. Despite the setback, the coalition behind the effort mobilized hunters, anglers, trappers, conservation groups, and unexpected allies across the state. The episode also looks west, where Colorado’s proposed ban on the commercial sale of wildlife fur advanced despite strong opposition from conservation advocates who argue the move ignores science and the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. From turkey hunting season kicking off in the South to legislative fights affecting hunters nationwide, this conversation explains what these policy developments mean for sportsmen and women in the field. Follow the show for more weekly hunting and fishing conversations. Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter Follow The Sportsmen’s Voice wherever you get your podcasts: https://podfollow.com/1705085498 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices