Joint resolution to support shooting competition as a collegiate sport
Impact
The resolution encourages the Board of Regents and the various units of the Montana University System to adopt and facilitate shooting sports as legitimate collegiate competitions. It calls for a collaborative effort between university resources and external entities to develop these programs and create scholarships for students involved in shooting sports. By establishing these sports within the collegiate framework, SJ7 aims to promote academic excellence and provide students with opportunities that align with their interests in marksmanship.
Summary
SJ7 is a Joint Resolution from the Montana Legislature aimed at garnering support for the inclusion of collegiate shooting sports within the Montana University System. This initiative is founded on the premise that Montana has a rich tradition of firearm use and shooting sports, which have significant cultural and educational value in the state. The resolution highlights the absence of collegiate programs in shooting sports, despite the high caliber of competitors originating from Montana, many of whom seek opportunities outside the state due to the lack of local programs and scholarships.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SJ7 is largely supportive, as it reflects a desire to recognize and institutionalize shooting sports as a valid competitive activity among Montana's universities. Legislators and supporters argue that including these sports not only enhances the university offerings but also aligns with students' academic success, as studies indicate those who participate in shooting sports tend to excel academically. Nevertheless, there were some concerns, although not extensively documented, about how such inclusion may affect funding and resource allocation within the universities.
Contention
While the resolution appears broadly agreeable among legislators, potential points of contention could arise regarding the prioritization of funding for shooting sports over other athletic programs or concerns about the messaging surrounding firearms within educational institutions. However, these concerns were not the main focus of discussions surrounding the resolution, and it mainly received positive endorsement during its voting process.