During the recent Fremont County Board Meeting held on July 30, 2025, discussions centered around the training requirements and associated costs for staff members wishing to carry concealed firearms in schools. The board emphasized the importance of adequate training, proposing a policy that mandates 24 hours of live fire handgun training and 16 hours of scenario-based training for employees and volunteers.

Concerns were raised regarding the financial burden this policy could impose on potential candidates. One board member highlighted that if the costs of training, ammunition, and equipment fall entirely on the individuals, it may deter strong candidates from participating. This sentiment echoed the experiences of those who might find such expenses prohibitive, especially young families or individuals with limited financial resources.

The board acknowledged the need for a balance between ensuring safety in schools and not making the training financially inaccessible. While some community members argued that the choice to carry a concealed weapon should not be funded by taxpayers, others contended that supporting qualified staff in their efforts to enhance school safety is essential.

The discussion also touched on the rising costs of ammunition and training, with estimates suggesting that a comprehensive 40-hour training course could be quite expensive. One member suggested that 1,000 rounds of live fire training would be a reasonable benchmark, although previous training sessions had managed to keep costs down by incorporating more dry fire drills.

In summary, the meeting underscored the complexities surrounding the implementation of concealed carry policies in schools. The board is tasked with finding a solution that balances community safety with financial feasibility for staff members. As discussions continue, the board will need to consider the implications of their decisions on both school safety and the accessibility of training for potential concealed carry staff.