Posted by: kwflatbed
If any of you have kids in this age group or know of kids that may be interested
they should apply at: http://www.nrafoundation.org/yes/application.asp
Posted by: kwflatbed
SENATE VERSION OF
NATIONAL RIGHT-TO-CARRY BILL INTRODUCED
U.S. Senator John Thune (R-S.D.) recently introduced S. 388--the Senate version of H.R. 226, a national Right-to-Carry reciprocity bill that would provide national reciprocity for state carry licensees. This legislation would allow any person with a valid carry permit or license issued by a state to carry a concealed firearm in any other state if they meet certain criteria. The bill would not create a federal licensing system; it would simply require the states to recognize each other's carry permits, just as they recognize drivers' licenses.
For more information on these bills, please visit www.nraila.org/Issues/FactSheets/Read.aspx?ID=189.
Please be sure to contact your U.S. Senators and Representative and ask them to cosponsor and support S. 388 and H.R. 226! You can call your U.S. Senators at (202) 224-3121, and your U.S. Representative at (202) 225-3121.
JUST WHO DO OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS REPRESENT?
Forget for a moment that anti-gun mayors Michael Bloomberg of New York City, Thomas Menino of Boston, and Adrian Fenty of Washington, D.C., all represent cities with highly restrictive gun laws and high levels of crime. Let's try, if only for a second, to ignore the fact that their prescriptions to reduce gun violence in their cities will not affect criminals one iota, but will certainly negatively impact their law-abiding gun owners. Briefly set aside your offense over them blaming gun crimes in their cities on the actions, not of criminals, but of citizens from outside their jurisdictions. Excuse, if you will, their ignorance on the "Tiahrt Amendment" that seems to be the prime target of the mayors' ire. (The "Tiahrt Amendment" prohibits the release of firearm trace data to any entity except a law enforcement agency conducting a bona fide criminal investigation involving the firearm. It ensures politically-motivated lawsuits, such as those being promoted by Bloomberg, don't misuse this data to try and bankrupt the lawful firearm industry through reckless litigation. As NRA and numerous law enforcement officers and agencies have continuously pointed out, release of this information also jeopardizes ongoing criminal investigations and the lives of law enforcement personnel involved with them.)
Instead, let's focus on the egomaniacal nature of Hizzoner Bloomberg and his crusade to foist upon citizens outside of New York City, New York City-style gun laws. In a press conference on Tuesday featuring more than 50 mayors, Bloomberg accused any lawmaker who supports the "Tiahrt Amendment" of "voting to put guns in the hands of criminals." The Mayor vowed further he would "remind every one of their constituents, particularly two years from now when they have an election."
Not surprisingly, the mayors won't have to go it alone, as with Congress under new, anti-Second Amendment leadership, an anti-gun task force has been created to ensure the mayors' water will be carried in Washington, D.C. Task force members include: Rep. Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.; F-rated by NRA-PVF); Rep. Mark Kirk (R-Ill.; F-rated by NRA-PVF); and Rep. John Conyers (D-Mich; F-rated by NRA-PVF).
While Mayor Bloomberg is contemplating spending hundreds of millions of his personal fortune to run for president, thankfully, he is NOT currently the President! We would recommend Bloomberg focus on taking care of his own backyard and enforcing existing laws against his city's criminals, rather than trying to spread failed gun policies across the nation.
Rest assured, the Mayor doesn't have to worry about reminding constituents about their elected officials' views on gun control; NRA will continue to do that--just as we will with those anti-gun officials who harbor their own personal White House ambitions!
For a list of mayors who have signed on to this anti-freedom effort, along with their contact information, please click here: http://www.nraila.org/Legislation/Federal/Read.aspx?id=2533.
MAYOR NOT AN NRA MEMBER
Fargo, N.D. Mayor Dennis Walaker, who has joined Mayor Bloomberg's anti-gun mayoral coalition, is either woefully confused, or deliberately misleading the public, about his alleged NRA membership status. In trying to highlight his pro-gun credentials when joining this cabal of mayors, Walaker billed himself as a one-time member of NRA. The only problem--there is no record of Walaker ever being a member.
Walaker apparently forgot the first rule of how to get out of a hole--to stop digging--when he then questioned whether NRA even maintains a database of its members! The millions of current and former NRA members can easily attest to the fact that we do maintain membership records. As a member-based service organization, we rely on this information to provide our members the benefits and news they expect.
One has to have concerns about a group that seeks the release of sensitive records that jeopardize gun owners' privacy rights and law enforcement safety, when one of its own members is incapable of accuracy with his own records.
CONNECTICUT UPDATE
The Judiciary and Public Safety and Security Committees have been assigned numerous anti-gun proposals including legislation to include the recurring and defeated "lost and stolen firearms" (H.B. No. 6702); the proven failure "ballistic fingerprinting" program (also known as ballistic registration-H.B. No. 6935); one gun-a-month (H.B. No. 6932); and permit to purchase ammunition proposals (S.B. No., 935); to name just a few. The Public Safety and Security Committee has scheduled a public hearing on these and other proposals for Tuesday, February 6, at 11:00 a.m., in the Legislative Office Building, Room 1B. Please keep checking your e-mail for updates on this crucial hearing! In the meantime, please call members of the Public Safety and Security Committee today, and urge them to "oppose" any anti-gun proposals! For a complete list of bills before the committee, please click here: http://www.nraila.org/Legislation/Read.aspx?ID=2550.
Members of the Public Safety and Security Committee can be reached at (860) 240-0570 or at: http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/menu/MemberList.asp?comm_code=PS&doc_type=.
The Judiciary Committee is also addressing a number of anti-gun proposals dealing with lost or stolen firearms. While the Judiciary Committee has not scheduled a public hearing for these proposals, please keep checking your e-mail for updates. In the interim, please call members of the Judiciary Committee today! Members of the Judiciary Committee can be reached at (860) 240-0530 or at: http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/menu/MemberList.asp?comm_code=JUD&doc_type=, and urge them to "oppose" all anti-gun proposals
The general phone number for the House of Representatives is (860) 240-0400 and for the Senate is (860) 240-0500. To find further contact information or help identifying your legislators please use the "Write Your Representative" feature found at www.NRAILA.org.
Harry
Life Endowment Member
Posted by: justanotherparatrooper
NOW the fkn senate takes up this bill!!! they had 6 fkn years to get this through . This is bullshit, This has no chance at all of passing with Harry Reid and his ilk un charge. If the REpublicans had ACTED LIKE THEY were in charge they might still be.
Posted by: kwflatbed
MORE TOOLS TO COMBAT ANTI-GUN MAYORSIn recent issues of the Grassroots Alert, we have been documenting anti-gun New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg's coalition efforts to impose New York City-style gun laws across the nation. In addition to compiling an updated listing of the mayors that sign on to Bloomberg's efforts, NRA-ILA has added a new tool for you to fight against this blatantly anti-gun coalition.
By visiting www.nraila.org/Legislation/Federal/Read.aspx?id=2533 not only will you find the list of mayors who are cahoots with Bloomberg, but also some sample letters for you to send to your mayor. One letter urges those mayors who have joined the anti-gun coalition, to remove themselves. The other sample letter encourages those mayors who have so far resisted pressure to join, to remain resolute. In addition to the sample letters, we have also posted a link to our "Tips for Communicating with Your Elected Officials" page that will provide you additional guidance when contacting your mayors.
Please visit www.nraila.org/Legislation/Federal/Read.aspx?id=2533 today to take action yourself, and share this link with your family, friends, and fellow firearm owners and encourage them to do the same!
CONNECTICUT
We Need Your Help! Lawmakers in Hartford are considering legislation that will have dramatic consequences for Connecticut's law-abiding gun owners. The anti-gun crowd has doubled their efforts to pass some of 2006's failed proposals and new 2007 anti-gun proposals. The Judiciary and Public Safety and Security Committees need to hear from you! The Judiciary Committee can be reached at (860) 240-0530 and the Public Safety and Security Committee can be reached at (860) 240-0570. These committees have been assigned many anti-gun proposals, to include the recurring and defeated "lost and stolen firearms," the "ballistic fingerprinting" program (also known as Ballistic Registration), one gun-a-month, and permit to purchase ammunition proposals. If you have not contacted your legislators, please do so TODAY! The Public Safety and Security Committee HAS SCHEDULED A PUBLIC HEARING on all the proposals listed below for Tuesday, February 6 at 11 am in the Legislative Office Building, Room 2E. For a complete list of bills before the committee, please click here: www.nraila.org/Legislation/Read.aspx?ID=2550. Please keep checking your email for updates and changes on this crucial hearing! In the meantime, start calling members of the Public Safety and Security Committee today! Members of the Public Safety and Security Committee can be reached at (860) 240-0570 or at the following link: www.cga.ct.gov/asp/menu/MemberList.asp?comm_code=PS&doc_type=, and urge them to "oppose" any anti-gun proposals! Remember, urge committee members to "oppose" all anti-gun proposals! Again, please keep checking your email for updates! The general phone number for the House of Representatives is (860) 240-0400 and for the Senate is (860) 240-0500.
Maine
SCHOOL SHOWS ANTI-GUN COLORS
Joshua Enos, of Denmark, Maine, is a member of the American Trap Association (ATA), and has been a member since he was 13. Joshua is graduating from his high school (the Fryeburg Academy, in Fryeburg, Maine) this year, and had submitted to his high school a picture of him with his shotgun--unloaded, broken, and draped over his shoulders. The school refused to use this photo, because it showed a firearm in it. Joshua's father asked if he could be in the Alternative Sports section of the yearbook. The answer was: "no" with a gun, but "yes" with his trophies. His father then took a picture of Joshua with some of his trophies, but the school is now refusing to use this photo because the trophies have guns on them!
To make your views known on this issue, please contact the school via Headmaster Dan Lee, at (207) 935-2001, extension 116, 745 Main St., Fryeburg, ME 04037.
Posted by: kwflatbed
BLOOMBERG DEALT SETBACK -- FOR NOW
In a blow to New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg's crusade to drive gun dealers out of business, the U.S. government has decided not to file charges against those dealers targeted by the mayor.
Stepping well outside his legal jurisdiction, Bloomberg coordinated a private, undercover "sting" operation using private investigators to stage straw purchases in the hopes of catching dealers engaging in illegal sales. Among the numerous problems with this illicit campaign, Michael Battle, DOJ's director of the executive office for United States Attorneys, cited the Mayor's use of persons "without proper law enforcement authority" and efforts that "interrupt or jeopardize" criminal probes.
When asked if the Bloomberg administration plans to stop conducting the sting operations, Deputy Mayor Ed Skyler said, "Not necessarily."
In hailing this recent development, NRA-ILA Executive Director Chris Cox noted, "NRA has always maintained that Mayor Bloomberg overstepped his boundaries and possibly broke the law in conducting these sting operations, and we expressed our concerns to BATFE immediately. NRA is grateful that the bureau has reviewed the matter and concluded that no action is warranted against these firearms retailers. NRA hopes that Mayor Bloomberg heeds the BATFE's stern warning that he and his administration could face potential legal liabilities if they continue their disregard of current federal law and the safety of law enforcement officers. If Mayor Bloomberg was serious about reducing crime, he would focus on prosecuting violent criminals in his city, instead of resorting to media stunts and press conferences."
FOREST SERVICE PLAN NEEDS CRUCIAL INPUT FROM SPORTSMEN
The Pike and San Isabel National Forests in Colorado are developing a management plan to shape the kinds of uses allowed in these Forests for the next 15 years. Public meetings are scheduled in February to give the public an opportunity to state how they want the Forests to be managed. The last time the management plan was updated was in 1984, so it is likely that the new plan will incorporate some significant changes. It is vital that sportsmen and women participate in the process to ensure access and opportunities for hunting and recreational shooting.
In its announcement, the Forest Service said that the principal issues will be recreation, ranching, oil and gas development, logging, forest thinning, and off-road vehicle use. The meetings will be from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m., in the following locations:
February 14 - Westcliffe, C0; 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.; Rancher's Roost Cafe and Bowling Alley, 5 Main Street
February 15 - Pueblo, CO; 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.; El Pueblo Museum, 301 North Union Avenue
February 22 - Fairplay, CO; 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.; Alma Town Hall, 59 E. Buckskin Road
For more information, please visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r2/psicc/
FUTURE OF RECREATIONAL SHOOTING ON THE ARAPAHOE
AND ROOSEVELT NATIONAL FORESTS UNDER REVIEW
The Boulder Ranger District of the Araphoe and Roosevelt National Forests is conducting a planning process to determine how recreational shooting, dispersed camping and campfires will be managed in the future. Issues concerning these activities have been developed based upon public input through written comments or at one of the public meetings held last May. The District Ranger has now scheduled three public meetings to talk about solutions to the issues. The meetings are as follows:
February 24 - Boulder; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.; New Vista High School, 700 20th Street
February 28 - Boulder; 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.; Platt Middle School; 6096 Baseline Road
March 3 - Longmont; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.; Longmont High School; 1040 Sunset Street
Comments may be sent to cluna@fs.fed.us. For more information you may call the District Ranger's office at (303) 541-2500, or go to the website at: www.fs.fed.us/r2/arnf/projects/ea-projects/brd/ufc/index.shtml
Posted by: kwflatbed
City of New Orleans, Mayor Ray Nagin
Once Again Found in Contempt of Court
District Court Judge to City Attorney:
Conduct "wholly unprofessional"
Fairfax, VA-The National Rifle Association (NRA) and law abiding gun owners have won yet another victory this morning against New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin and former police chief Warren Riley.
Judge Carl J. Barbier, presiding over the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, granted NRA's motion for contempt against New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin and Warren Riley for "failure to provide initial disclosures and to compel answers to discovery" during NRA's injunction against the City for their illegal gun confiscation of law abiding citizens following Hurricane Katrina in 2006.
"Once more, Mayor Ray Nagin and former police chief Warren Riley are held accountable for considering themselves above the law," said Chris W. Cox, NRA's chief lobbyist. "These men have had to be dragged, kicking and screaming, every step of the way in this process to return the lawfully owned firearms to their own citizens, and Judge Barbier rightly found them in contempt of court for their complete lack of respect for the rule of law."
Furthermore, Judge Barbier concluded the delaying tactics by the City's attorney, Joseph Vincent DiRosa, Jr, to be "wholly unprofessional and shall not be condoned". Mr. DiRosa admitted in Court that he had "no good reason" to explain his actions and has been ordered to pay partial legal fees to NRA's attorneys for their wasted time and money.
"Ray Nagin, Warren Riley and their attorney refused to provide vital information to the U.S. District Court for their unconstitutional acts in their city's time of great need," concluded Cox. "On behalf of the lawful gun owners of New Orleans, NRA is pleased with this outcome, we thank Judge Barbier for his swift decision and we will continue to press for the full return of all the city's confiscated firearms."
-NRA-
Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America's oldest civil rights and sportsmen's group. Four million members strong, NRA continues its mission to uphold Second Amendment rights and to advocate enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association remains the nation's leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the military.
Posted by: kwflatbed
NRA-ILA Grassroots Alert Vol. 14, No. 8 02/23/07
THE MOST SWEEPING GUN BAN EVER INTRODUCED IN CONGRESS;
McCarthy Bill Bans Millions More Guns Than The Clinton Gun Ban
On Feb. 14, 2007, Representative Carolyn McCarthy (D-N.Y.) introduced H.R. 1022, a bill with the stated purpose, "to reauthorize the assault weapons ban, and for other purposes."
McCarthy's verbiage warrants explanation. Presumably, what she means by "assault weapons ban" is the Clinton Gun Ban of 1994. Congress allowed the ban to expire in 2004 for multiple reasons, including the fact that federal, state and local law enforcement agency studies showed that guns affected by the ban had been used in only a small percentage of crime, before and after the ban was imposed.
With the nation's murder rate 43% lower than in 1991, and the re-legalized guns still used in only a small percentage of crime, reauthorizing the Clinton Gun Ban would be objectionable enough. But McCarthy's "other purposes" would make matters even worse. H.R. 1022 would ban every gun banned by the Clinton ban, plus millions more guns, including:
. Every gun made to comply with the Clinton ban. (The Clinton ban dictated the kinds of grips, stocks and attachments new guns could have. Manufacturers modified new guns to the Clinton requirements. H.R. 1022 would ban the modified guns too.)
. Guns exempted by the Clinton ban. (Ruger Mini-14s and -30s and Ranch Rifles; .30 cal. carbines; and fixed-magazine, semi-automatic, center-fire rifles that hold more than 10 rounds.)
. All semi-automatic shotguns. (E.g., Remington, Winchester, Beretta and Benelli, used for hunting, sport shooting, and self-defense. H.R. 1022 would ban them because they have "any characteristic that can function as a grip," and would also ban their main component, called the "receiver.")
. All detachable-magazine semi-automatic rifles-including, for example, the ubiquitous Ruger 10/22 .22 rimfire-because they have "any characteristic that can function as a grip."
. Target shooting rifles. (E.g., the three centerfire rifles most popular for marksmanship competitions: the Colt AR-15, the Springfield M1A and the M1 "Garand.")
. Any semi-automatic shotgun or rifle an Attorney General one day claims isn't "sporting," even though the constitutions of the U.S. and 44 states, and the laws of all 50 states, recognize the right to use guns for defense.
. 65 named guns (the Clinton law banned 19 by name); semi-auto fixed-magazine pistols of over 10 rounds capacity; and frames, receivers and parts used to repair or refurbish guns.
H.R. 1022 would also ban the importation of magazines exempted by the Clinton ban, ban the sale of a legally-owned "assault weapon" with a magazine of over 10 rounds capacity, and begin backdoor registration of guns, by requiring private sales of banned guns, frames, receivers and parts to be conducted through licensed dealers. Finally, whereas the Clinton Gun Ban was imposed for a 10-year trial period, H.R. 1022 would be a permanent ban.
Please be sure to contact your U.S. Representative and urge him or her to oppose
H.R. 1022!
You can call your U.S. Representative at (202) 225-3121.
Posted by: kwflatbed
Alerts 3/3/2007
CONNECTICUT:
One-Gun-A-Month Initiative Still Awaiting Committee Vote! We are continuing to watch over Senate Bill 938 (one-gun-a-month legislation) for the committee vote which could be as late as Thursday, March 8. A vote must be made by that date, as it is the bill-reporting deadline for the Public Safety Committee. Please visit www.nraila.org/Legislation/Read.aspx?ID=2625 for a list of committee members.
MAINE:
Legislature Considering Making Right-to-Carry More Difficult! Recently introduced legislation, LD778, would require all new applicants and renewing holders of a concealed firearms permit to show documentation they have completed a firearms safety course that includes at least"6 hours"of course work! Please call your state legislator today and urge him or her to oppose this legislation. Your legislator can be reached at the following toll-free numbers: Maine House of Representatives 1-800-423-2900 and the Maine Senate 1-800-423-6900.
NEW HAMPSHIRE:
Anti-Gun Legislation Looms in the Senate! Senate Bill 44, seeks to change the concealed carry licensing statute to make it easier for the issuing authority to deny a license. Please contact your State Senator today at (603) 271-2111and urge him or her to oppose SB44.
VERMONT:
Legislation Takes Aim at Ammunition! The controversial anti-gun "Get the Lead Out of Vermont" report released last month by the Vermont Attorney General and State Department of Health has spawned a far-reaching bill that could allow Vermont municipalities to outlaw shooting ranges and even the mere possession of lead ammunition. Please call your legislator today at 802-828-2228 and ask him or her to oppose H352!
Posted by: kwflatbed
Alerts 3/10/2007
D.C. GUN BAN RULED UNCONSTITUTIONAL,
VIOLATES INDIVIDUAL RIGHT TO OWN A GUN
This week, the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the Second Amendment is an individual right and concluded that the District of Columbia's ban on guns in the home is unconstitutional. According to the majority opinion, "[T]he phrase 'the right of the people'...leads us to conclude that the right in question is individual." Also, earlier this week, Second Amendment supporters on Capitol Hill introduced H.R. 1399 -- the "District of Columbia Personal Protection Act."
MASSACHUSETTS
Bay State Governor Considering Removing Notification of Expiring Permits!Please contact Governor Deval Patrick (D) and your State Legislator today and respectfully urge them to oppose a budget proposal to repeal laws requiring the written notification of expiring Firearms Identification Cards and License to Carry Permits. The Governor's office can be reached at (617)-725-4000 and your legislators can be reached at (617)-722-1276.
MAINE
Maine Legislature Considering Making Right-to-Carry More Difficult!Your State Legislators need to hear from you. Please call your State Legislators and urge him or her to oppose Legislative Document 778, which will make Right-to-Carry more difficult in Maine. Your State Legislators can be reached at the following toll-free numbers: Maine House of Representatives 1-800-423-2900 and the Maine Senate 1-800-423-6900.
Maine Bill Introduced to Restrict Firearms Sales! Please contact your State Representative at (207)-287-1400 and respectfully urge him or her to oppose Legislative Document 361, which would mandate a 10-day waiting period for the purchase of firearms in Maine.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Bill Seeking to Make Right-to-Carry More Difficult in New Hampshire! A bill to make it easier for the issuing authority to deny a Right-to-Carry license in the Granite State has been scheduled for a hearing next week. Please attend this hearing or respectfully urge Senate Bill 44's sponsor, State Senator Peter Burling (D-5), to withdraw the bill by contacting him at (603) 271-2642 or via email at peter.burling@leg.state.nh.us.
VERMONT
The Future of Shooting and Hunting Needs Your Support! New legislation, S. 152 and H. 352, will endanger the future of shooting and hunting in Vermont. The State House of Representatives will hold a special hearing on H352 on Tuesday evening, March 13 at 7:30 PM in the House Chamber in the State Capitol Building. Please call your State Legislator today at (802) 828-2228 or (800) 322-5616 and ask him or her to oppose H352 and S152!
Posted by: kwflatbed
Alerts 3/23/2007
MAINE
Bill to Establish Waiting Periods in Maine Killed! Legislative Document 361, sponsored by State Representative Margaret Craven (D-74), "An Act To Create a Waiting Period for Firearms," was voted down in the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee This legislation would have mandated a 10-day waiting period for certain individuals who purchase firearms in Maine. Thanks to your calls and efforts we were able to defeat the first anti-gun measure before the Committee this year!
Mandatory Training Legislation Still Looming in Maine Legislature! Legislative Document 778, introduced by State Senator Karl Turner (Cumberland-R) still looms in the legislature. This measure would require all new CHL applicants and renewing holders of a Right-to-Carry permit show documentation they have completed a firearms safety course that includes at least6 hours of course work! This bill also removes exemptions to current handgun safety course requirements for an applicant or holder of a Right-to-Carry permit who can personally demonstrate knowledge of the subject matter. Please call the bill sponsors today and urge them to oppose this legislation. Legislators can be reached at the following toll-free numbers: Maine House of Representatives 1-800-423-2900 and the Maine Senate 1-800-423-6900.
VERMONT
Vermont's Bill to Ban Lead Ammunition Appears To Have Been "Hung On The Wall!" Due to the overwhelming and exceptional actions of Vermont's gun owners and sportsmen, H. 352 appears to be dead for the 2007 legislative session. H. 352 is being disguised as a "help the children lead ban" bill to remove lead hazards from homes and businesses. Unfortunately, H. 352 is too broad and leaves interpretation open for municipalities to ban manufacture, sales, and possession of lead ammunition.
Posted by: kwflatbed
Alerts 3/31/2007
SENATE VERSION OF
D.C. PERSONAL PROTECTION ACT INTRODUCED!
This week, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Tex.) introduced S. 1001, the Senate version of the "District of Columbia Personal Protection Act," with 41 original cosponsors! Like its House counterpart --H.R. 1399, introduced on March 8, by U.S. Representatives Mike Ross (D-Ark.) and Mark Souder (R-Ind.)-- the Senate legislation seeks to restore the constitutionally-guaranteed Second Amendment rights of the residents of the District of Columbia by repealing the District's onerous gun ban.
THE $500 MILLION MAN?
The political rumor mill is buzzing with speculation that anti-gun New York City Michael Bloomberg could launch a self-financed, third party bid for the presidency, spending up to a half billion dollars from his personal fortune.
State Updates:
VERMONT:
Vermont's Bill to Ban Lead Ammunition Appears To Have Been "Hung On The Wall!"
Due to the overwhelming and exceptional actions of Vermont's gun owners and sportsmen, H. 352 appears to be dead for the 2007 legislative session. H. 352 is being disguised as a "help the children lead ban" bill to remove lead hazards from homes and businesses. Unfortunately, H. 352 is too broad and leaves interpretation open for municipalities to ban the manufacture, sale, and possession of lead ammunition.
Posted by: kwflatbed
Alerts 4/7/2007
GOVERNOR MANCHIN SIGNS WEST VIRGINIA
"EMERGENCY POWERS" LEGISLATION INTO LAW
Governor Joe Manchin (D) recently signed into law House Bill 2348--NRA-backed "Emergency Powers" legislation that would prevent local governments from confiscating lawfully owned firearms during declared states of emergency, as witnessed in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. Governor Manchin's action makes West Virginia the thirteenth state to enact this type of legislation since the devastating hurricane, joining Alaska, Idaho, Florida, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Virginia, Louisiana, Michigan, and Georgia in passing such measures.
ABC'S "20/20" SEEKING "ARMED CITIZEN" STORIES: Gun ban groups often claim that private citizens rarely, if ever, use guns in self-defense. ABC News' "20/20" is now putting that claim to the test, asking viewers to submit their own real-life "Armed Citizen" stories.
State News:
MAINE:
"Mandatory Training" and "Burglar Protection" Legislation Scheduled For Work Session! The Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee has scheduled a work session for several falsely named firearm bills. Your attendance is needed. The work session will be held Wednesday, April 11 at 1:00 PM in State House room 436. If you are unable to attend please contact the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee members and your State Senator and Representative to urge him or her to oppose LD 778 and LD 1111. Legislators can be reached at the following toll-free numbers: Maine House of Representatives 1-800-423-2900 and the Maine Senate 1-800-423-6900.
MASSACHUSETTS:
Public Comments Sought on Management Alternatives for Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge! The closing date for comments is April 17th. Please send comments to Carl Melberg, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Northeast Regional Office, 300 Westgate Center Drive, Hadley, MA 01035 or via email to northeastplanning@fws.gov. The plan is on view at http://library.fws.gov/ccps.htm. For information call 413-253-8521.
Posted by: kwflatbed
Alerts 4/14/2007
MISSOURI GOVERNOR MATT BLUNT SIGNS EMERGENCY POWERS PROTECTION INTO LAW AT NRA ANNUAL MEETING
Today, Missouri Governor Matt Blunt signed into law a fundamental protection against gun confiscation during declared states of emergencies. The bill signing ceremony took place at NRA's Opening Celebration this afternoon at the America's Center in St. Louis.
STATE ROUNDUP
MASSACHUSETTS: Public Comments Sought on Management Alternatives for Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge! The refuge is currently open to hunting, so it is important that the refuge receive comments in support of this use. The closing date for comments is April 17th. Please send comments to Carl Melberg, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Northeast Regional Office, 300 Westgate Center Drive, Hadley, MA 01035 or via email to northeastplanning@fws.gov. The plan is on view at http://library.fws.gov/ccps.htm. For information call 413-253-8521.
Posted by: kwflatbed
NRA JOINS IN DAY OF MOURNING
The National Rifle Association joins the entire country in expressing our deepest condolences to the families of Virginia Tech, and to all who have been affected by this horrible tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends who lost loved ones to this senseless act.
This is a time for people to grieve, to mourn, and to heal. This is not a time for political discussions or public policy debates.
Virginia Governor Tim Kaine has declared today a day of mourning; as a Virginia based organization, we respect and abide by this declaration.
We will participate in this discussion at an appropriate time. In the interim, our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the victims, their families, and the entire Virginia Tech community.
Posted by: kwflatbed
Could Chapter 180, Part II Be Heading to Massachusetts?
Please Contact Your State Legislator Today!
If you don't remember, Chapter 180 of the Acts of 1998 created some of the most confusing and ill-advised set of gun laws in the country. The vast majority of those new laws attacked lawful gun owners and did little, if anything, to address violent crime.
The bulk of the recommendations in this report ignore the lessons that should have been learned from previous attacks on lawful gun owners. With this report, we had hoped to be presented with some innovative ways to combat the criminal element on our streets. Instead we have been presented with more attacks on lawful citizens. One recommendation actually suggests that,"... State Police be assigned the duty of making periodic checks of registered guns." Imagine the day when law enforcement can come to your homes to take inventory of your private property! Other recommendations include banning .50 caliber rifles, and limiting your ability to purchase firearms.
Please read what the Committee is putting forth and prepare yourselves for the fight that lies ahead. To view the full report, please click here. Please contact your State Representative at (617) 722-2000 and your State Senator at (617)-722-1455 respectfully and urge him or her to oppose the misguided attempt at curbing crime.
Posted by: kwflatbed
NRA STATEMENT ON LEGISLATIVE EFFORTS ON CAPITOL HILL
Recent reports in the Washington Post, Newsweek and other media outlets are fanning Internet rumors regarding the NRA's position concerning legislation currently being discussed in Congress in the aftermath of the horrific crimes that occurred at Virginia Tech.
The NRA has a long history of supporting measures to keep guns out of the hands of violent criminals and those who have been adjudicated by a court as mentally incompetent, and we will continue to do so. We will also continue our efforts to make sure that the National Instant Background Check System (NICS) is accurate, fair, and instant by seeking changes to permanently ensure that no fee is associated with the check, that system outages are minimized, and that our men and women in uniform who have served our country honorably are not unjustly denied their constitutional rights. As always, the NRA is committed to ensuring that any proposal does not infringe upon the rights of law-abiding gun owners.
It is impossible to predict right now what any final bill will look like; therefore, we will withhold judgment until we see a final product. However, the NRA will continue to work with Members of Congress throughout the process to ensure that any changes to the NICS benefit lawful gun purchasers while ensuring that those adjudicated by the courts as mentally incompetent are included in the system.
Including necessary records on prohibited persons into the NICS is a position we have long supported. However, history has shown that no law will stop a madman intent on doing evil.
The NRA believes that our schools are not adequately protected. Therefore, we believe a national conversation on school security is necessary, and we look forward to those discussions and finding meaningful solutions to keep America's children safe.
For more information, visit www.nraila.org/Issues/FactSheets/Read.aspx?id=217&issue=018
KANSAS LEGISLATURE OVERRIDES GOVERNOR SEBELIUS' VETO OF VITAL RIGHT-TO-CARRY REFORM LEGISLATION: The Kansas State Senate today voted 30 to10 to override Governor Kathleen Sebelius' veto of vital legislation that would allow law-abiding Kansans to protect themselves outside their homes.
THE VIEW'S NO LONGER ROSIE:One of the shrillest anti-gun celebries, Rosie O'Donnell, who often used her spot on T.V. talk-show The View as a platform for her anti-gun blathering, recently failed to agree to terms of a contract extension and, thankfully, will be leaving the show.
CONNECTICUT:
The Connecticut "Gun Trafficker Protection Act" is Back! Senate Bill 903 has already passed the Senate Judiciary Committee. SB 903 seeks tomake criminals out of burglary victims by making it a crime to fail to report a gun theft to police within 72 hours of when the owner "discovered or should have discovered" the theft. SB 903 also includes language that would subject gun owners to criminal investigation and jeopardy of prosecution even if they report the theft within the required time period! Please contact your State Legislators today at (860) 240-0100<B> and strongly, yet respectfully, urge them to oppose SB 903.
Posted by: kwflatbed
Updates 5/5/2007
Law Enforcement Agrees With NRA -- Again! Friday, May 04, 2007 Nation's Law Enforcement Opposes Release of Data on Gun Owners
For more than five years, cities suing the gun industry and anti-gun organizations have sought access to confidential law enforcement data on firearm traces - ecords that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATFE) compiles when it traces firearms in response to requests from law enforcement agencies. These efforts have been redoubled in recent years under the prodding of New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg (R), who has funded a national television ad campaign that is so misleading that some television stations are refusing to run it because of its blatantly false statements!
The anti-gunners' intentions are clear—to conduct a massive fishing expedition aimed at driving gun dealers and gun manufacturers out of business through bogus lawsuits. This is a backdoor attempt to undermine "The Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act" passed by Congress and signed into law by President Bush in 2005. This landmark law blocks reckless, harassment lawsuits intended to hold gun manufacturers and dealers responsible for the misuse of firearms by criminals.
Every year since 2003, the U.S. Congress has passed increasingly strong language to keep this information confidential. The legislation—a series of "riders" to the appropriations bill that funds BATFE—is widely known as the "Tiahrt Amendment," after its sponsor, Rep. Todd Tiahrt (R-Kan.).
There are good reasons for keeping this information confidential, and for strengthening the Tiahrt Amendment and making it permanent, so that legislative battles needn't be fought every year, including:- Releasing the information serves no useful purpose and may jeopardize the lives of law enforcement and ongoing investigations;
- Traced guns aren't always "crime guns;" firearms may be traced for reasons unrelated to any armed crime;
- Trace information remains available for law enforcement use.
(For more information on the "Tiahrt Amendment," please visit: www.nraila.org/Issues/FactSheets/Read.aspx?id=208.)
Two leading voices in the nation's law enforcement community have once again lent their public support to NRA's efforts to ensure this sensitive data remains off limits to those who seek to use it to advance their personal anti-gun crusades, while ensuring the information remains available to law enforcement agencies in conjunction with bona fide criminal investigations, as has always been the case.
First came yet another affirmation of NRA's position by Chuck Canterbury, national president of the Fraternal Order of Police, who wrote in an April 24 column (www.kansas.com/205/story/52390.html): "…the officers in the field who are actually working illegal gun cases know that releasing sensitive information about pending cases can jeopardize the integrity of an investigation or even place the lives of undercover officers in danger. That is why the Fraternal Order of Police has always supported language protecting firearms trace data, now known as the 'Tiahrt Amendment.'"
Adding to the chorus of law enforcement support for the Tiahrt Amendment, on April 30 Michael Sullivan, acting director of the BATFE, had this to say (www.scrippsnews.com/node/22041), "ATF considers this information law-enforcement-sensitive because it is often the first investigative lead in a case. We treat it no differently than fingerprint matches and other crime-scene information, since disclosure outside of law enforcement can tip off criminals to the investigation, compromise cases and endanger the lives of undercover officers, witnesses and confidential sources."
NRA remains committed to ensuring confidentiality of sensitive law enforcement information, on two fronts:- NRA supports continuing and strengthening the annual appropriations riders that prevent abuse of this information outside legitimate criminal investigations.
- In the 109th Congress, NRA supported H.R. 5005 by Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Tex.), which would make the disclosure ban permanent.
Please continue to contact your U.S. Representative in support of the Tiahrt Amendment, and remind him or her that NRA and law enforcement remain united in support of this critical legislation. And please be sure to urge your family, friends, and fellow firearm owners to do the same!
You may contact your U.S. Representative at (202) 225-3121. Additional contact information can be found using the "Write Your Representatives" feature at www.NRAILA.org.
NRA-ILA Opposes Justice Department Proposal
Friday, May 04, 2007 Last week, the U.S. Department of Justice sent a legislative proposal, along with a letter of support, to Congressional leaders. The legislative proposal would allow this - or any future - Attorney General to deny a firearm purchase to individuals on terrorist "watch lists" without due process of law. Anti-gun Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) has already introduced the legislation (S. 1237).
As you would expect, NRA was quick to respond to this assault on our Second Amendment freedom.
Below you will find a link to the letter from NRA-ILA Executive Director Chris W. Cox to Attorney General Alberto Gonzales expressing our strong opposition to this legislative proposal. Please be sure to read the letter, and please be sure to contact your U.S. Senators and ask them to oppose S. 1237! You can call your U.S. Senators at (202) 224-3121.
http://www.nraila.org//news/read/InTheNews.aspx?ID=9354
Exploiting Tragedy -- Again Friday, May 04, 2007 Almost immediately following the horrific shootings on the campus of Virginia Tech, the anti-gun machine was revving into overdrive. Anti-gun politicians and gun control groups were having a field day jostling for an opportunity at any available microphone or in front of any camera.
Amid the frenzy, Virginia Governor Tim Kaine made a statement that seemed to fall mostly on deaf ears. He said, "People who want to take this within 24 hours of the event and make it, you know, their political hobby horse to ride, I've got nothing but loathing for them. To those who want to, you know, try to make this into some little crusade, you know, I say take that elsewhere. Let this community deal with grieving individuals and be sensitive to those needs."
NRA agreed, and proceeded accordingly. Unfortunately, groups such as the Brady Campaign refused to heed Governor Kaine's sound advice.
As the editors of National Review noted in their May 3 editorial: "A week after the massacre at Virginia Tech, gun-control advocate Sarah Brady distributed a letter seeking contributions of $32 - one buck for each of Seung-Hui Cho's victims." While "the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence saw the horror at Virginia Tech as an opportunity for fundraising and publicity," the editors wrote, "most elected officials, however, have responded with appropriate caution."
As NRA Executive Vice President Wayne LaPierre recently said, "We've been debating gun control in this country for decades now. What does it hurt to pause for a few days in the midst of a tragedy to let the families of the victims grieve in peace, without being turned into a poster child either for gun rights or gun control? The answer, frankly, is it doesn't hurt anyone. Sure, you might not get to appear on national television to promote your agenda, but there's a time and a place for that. Even the brightest television studio lights can't hide the fact that you're standing in the shadow of an enormous tragedy in order to further your cause."
STATE ROUNDUP
MAINE: Maine's Hunting Rights in Jeopardy! Anti-hunting legislation, Legislative Document 1635, "An Act To Prohibit Recreational Bear Trapping," has been referred to the Committee on Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. This bill would abolish the open season on trapping bears, a long-standing Maine tradition. Please contact the Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Committee Members today and politely urge them to oppose LD 1635 and save a tradition of hunting that has been used by Maine hunters for decades. Senate members can be reached at (207) 287-1583, and House members can be contacted at (207) 287-4469.
MASSACHUSETTS: One-Gun-A-Month Bill Filed in Massachusetts! Governor Deval Patrick's (D) gun-rationing scheme has become a reality. House Bill 3991 is currently in the Judiciary Committee. This bill would limit law-abiding Massachusetts gun buyers from purchasing more than one firearm in a month's time. Please contact the Governor and the members of the Judiciary Committee and respectfully urge them to oppose this gun-rationing scheme.
RHODE ISLAND: Rhode Island Legislation Targeting Semi-Automatics! Firearm microstamping legislation has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee. For contact informatation for the House Judiciary Committee, please click here.: http://www.nraila.org/Legislation/Read.aspx?ID=2944
Posted by: kwflatbed
Updates 5/12/2007
D.C. CIRCUIT COURT AFFIRMS EARLIER PARKER RULING
On Tuesday, the full U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. circuit, declined to review the decision in Parker v. District of Columbia--the case in March that upheld the Second Amendment as an individual right and struck down Washington, D.C.'s handgun ban. The decision not to review the case means that an earlier ruling by the three-judge panel will stand.
Gun Ban Activists Push More Restrictions at U.S. House Hearing:
A one-sided hearing Thursday in the House Oversight & Government Reform Subcommittee on Domestic Policy, chaired by long-shot presidential candidate Rep. Dennis Kucinich (D-Oh.), was used by anti-gunners as a platform for pushing the same, old, tired anti-gun restrictions.
UNDERCOVER OPERATIONS MAY "STING" BLOOMBERG:
In an effort to end the illegal, covert "Simulated Straw Purchase" stings that anti-gun New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg (R) has been misguidedly promoting of late, Virginia Attorney General Robert McDonnell (R) recently sent a letter to Bloomberg reminding him that Virginia's House Bill 2653--which prohibits gun dealer entrapment schemes such as those orchestrated by the Mayor--will go into effect this summer.
IN MOORE TROUBLE:
Once again, filmmaker Michael Moore is in the news, and the news is not good for him. A recent article in the on-line version of the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports Moore is under investigation by the U.S. Treasury Department for unauthorized travel to Cuba.
CONNECTICUT: Connecticut Anti-Gun Bill Still Pending in Committee! Senate Bill 903is still awaiting referral to the Public Safety and Security Committee. SB 903 seeks tomake criminals out of burglary victims by making it a crime to fail to report a gun theft to police within 72 hours of when the owner "discovered or should have discovered" the theft. SB 903 also includes language that would subject gun owners to criminal investigation and jeopardy of prosecution even if they report the theft within the required time period! Please call your Connecticut state lawmakers TODAY at (860) 240-0100 and strongly urge them to OPPOSE SB 903!
RHODE ISLAND: Rhode Island Legislation Targeting Semi-Automatics! Firearm microstamping legislation has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee. For contact information for the House Judiciary Committee, please click here.
Posted by: kwflatbed
Updates 5/19/2007
BLOOMBERG CALLS FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE A "FRINGE ORGANIZATION"
http://www.nraila.org/Legislation/Fe...d.aspx?id=3007
Anti-gun New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg (R) is at it again. A recent New York Post article detailed how, at a breakfast sponsored by Ladies Home Journal, he took a swipe at the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) for its support of the Tiahrt Amendment, which prohibits the disclosure of confidential firearm trace data except in the course of a bona fide criminal investigation. "It is one fringe organization," charged Bloomberg.
MEEHAN-SHAYS AMENDMENT DEFEATED!
For the second time this year, legislation infringing on American citizens' First Amendment rights was defeated in the U.S. Congress. On May 1, anti-gun Representatives Martin Meehan (D-Mass.) and Christopher Shays (R-Conn.) introduced H.R. 2093, legislation restricting grassroots lobbying. The "Meehan-Shays amendment" would have defined communications by organizations such as NRA, that were written with the intent of mobilizing citizens to contact Congress as "lobbying," subjecting those efforts to onerous registration and reporting requirements for the first time in American history. In the past Congress has specifically exempted grassroots mobilizing from the definition of "lobbying." Meehan offered H.R. 2093 as an amendment to H.R. 2316 (the "Honest Leadership and Open Government Act") at the House Judiciary Committee markup yesterday and it was defeated on a voice vote with only one of his colleagues speaking in its favor.
S. 376 MOVES OUT OF COMMITTEE:
We are happy to report that, this week, the Senate Judiciary Committee voted to report S. 376 favorably, without any of the many anti-gun amendments Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) had threatened to propose. The bill is now available for consideration by the full Senate.
STATE ROUNDUP
CONNECTICUT:
"Lost and Stolen" Legislation Stopped For The Time Being!
<SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic">The "Lost and Stolen" legislation was not brought up for a vote, which will kill the bill now. Unfortunately, it usually shows up later as an amendment on another bill. SB 903, would make it a crime to fail to report the lost or theft of a firearm within 72 hours of when you "discover or should have discovered" it missing. Please keep checking www.NRAILA.org for updates on this anti-gun issue.
RHODE ISLAND (1)
Rhode Island Legislation Targeting Semi-Automatics!
Firearm microstamping legislation has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee. HB 6343 would require that identifying marks, including the make, model, and serial number of the firearm be etched into the firing pin and breech face of a firearm so that these identifying marks are transferred to the cartridge case upon firing. Please call the House Judiciary Committee and urge them to oppose HB 6343. <B>For contact information for the House Judiciary Committee, please click here.
RHODE ISLAND (2):
Rhode Island State Senate Seeking "Microstamping" Bill!
Microstamping legislation was introduced and could soon be considered by the Senate Judiciary Committee. S 1012 would require that identifying marks, including the make, model, and serial number of the firearm be etched into the firing pin and breech face of a firearm so that these identifying marks are transferred to the cartridge case upon firing. Please call the Senate Judiciary Committee and urge them to oppose S 1012. For contact information for the Senate Judiciary Committee, please click here.
Posted by: kwflatbed
Updates 5/26/2007
THEORY OF GUN CONTROL MEETS REALITY OF CRIME
A May 15 story in The Plain Dealer (Cleveland, Ohio) serves as a good reminder of how a person's support for gun control often changes after a personal experience with crime. State Representative Michael DeBose (D-12) of Cleveland was an opponent of Right-to-Carry, having voted against the measure twice. All that changed on the night of May 1, when he was confronted by two men, one of whom was wielding a gun. On that night, Rep. DeBose's sense of security in his neighborhood changed, as did his view on lawful citizens being able to defend themselves.
MEMORIAL DAY: REFLECTION OF FREEDOM'S PAST AND FUTURE:While many Americans welcome this weekend as a chance to gather with family and friends, to barbeque in the great outdoors, and to miss a day of work on Monday, we must always remember exactly what we commemorate this weekend-our fallen brothers and sisters who paid the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our freedom and the freedom of millions of others whose names they didn't even know.
MAKE YOURSELF HEARD AT TOWN HALL MEETINGS! Congress will be on its Memorial Day District Work Period next week. During this time, your Senators and Representative will be back home in their states and districts.
Many lawmakers use this time to hold town hall meetings, and take questions from their constituents. These meetings offer a tremendous opportunity for you to personally voice your strong support for a number of pro-gun bills pending in Congress.
STATE ROUNDUP(please click to see any updates on states not listed below.)
CONNECTICUT:
Anti-Gun Bill Heading to Connecticut House for Consideration!
Senate Bill 938 would make it a crime for gun owners to not report the loss or theft of a firearm with 72 hours of when you "discover or should have discovered" it missing. Reporting the loss or theft of a handgun to police, would immediately trigger an investigation into the whether he "should have discovered" the missing gun(s) and exposes himself to criminal prosecution. Under this bill, which now applies only to handguns, police and prosecutors retain total discretion for what constitutes "should have discovered." Please call your State Representative TODAY at (860) 240-0400 and urge him or her to OPPOSE Senate Bill 938.
MASSACHUSETTS:
One-Gun-A-Month Bill Still Looming In Massachusetts!
House Bill 3991, filed by Governor Deval Patrick (D) is still pending in the Judiciary Committee. This proposal would limit law-abiding Massachusetts gun buyers from purchasing more than one firearm per month. Please contact the Judiciary Committee members today and respectfully urge them to oppose H 3991 and any other proposal that limits the rights of lawful gun owners. Also, please contact Governor Patrick and politely ask him to withdraw this anti-gun legislation. Contact information can be found by clicking here.
MAINE (1):
Maine's Hunting Heritage Still at Stake!
On Wednesday, May 23, the Maine State House voted 82-60 to accept a report recommending that Legislative Document 1635 be defeated. The vote essentially "kills" Legislative Document 1635, "An Act To Prohibit Recreational Bear Trapping." Please contact your State Senator today at (207) 287-1583 and ask him or her to accept the "ought not to pass" committee report.
MAINE (2):
Bill to Establish Waiting Periods in Maine!
Legislative Document 361 would mandate a 10-day waiting period for certain individuals who purchase firearms in Maine. The bill has been placed on the House calendar for a possible vote. Please contact your State Representative at (207) 287-4469 and ask them to vote to accept the "ought not to pass" committee report.
Posted by: kwflatbed
Updates 6/2/2007
Continue To Urge Support Of Tiahrt Amendment
For more than five years, cities suing the gun industry and anti-gun organizations have sought access to confidential law enforcement data on firearm traces - records that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATFE) compiles when it traces firearms in response to requests from law enforcement agencies.
Nevada Governor Jim Gibbons Signs NRA-Backed "Emergency Powers Protection Act"
This week, Nevada Governor Jim Gibbons (R) signed into law NRA-backed Assembly Bill 95 (AB95)--the "Emergency Powers Firearms Protection Act." This new law will prevent a governmental entity or law enforcement agency from confiscating firearms from law-abiding citizens during a declared state of emergency.
NRA Joins Lawsuit To Protect Ohio Firearms Preemption:
On Tuesday, NRA entered (as a defendant-intervenor) into a lawsuit brought by the City of Cleveland against the State of Ohio, in an attempt to usurp state firearms law pertaining to the possession, sale and transportation of firearms in Ohio. If the court accepts NRA's intervention, NRA will be able to participate fully on behalf of our members in defending the state preemption law that NRA was instrumental in passing.
STATE ROUNDUP
CONNECTICUT:
"Lost and Stolen" Gun Bill Still Pending in Connecticut House!
On Wednesday, May 23, the Connecticut Senate amended Senate Bill 903 into Senate Bill 938 and approved it by a vote of 24 to 11. Senate Bill 938 will now make it a crime for gun owners to not report the loss or theft of a firearm with 72 hours of when you "discover or should have discovered" it missing. Reporting the loss or theft of a handgun to police would immediately trigger an investigation into the whether the owner "should have discovered" the missing gun and exposes the owner to criminal prosecution. Please call your State Representative TODAY at (860) 240-0400 and urge him or her to OPPOSE Senate Bill 938.
MASSACHUSETTS:
One-Gun-A-Month Bill Still Looming In Massachusetts!
House Bill 3991, filed by Governor Deval Patrick (D) is still pending in the Judiciary Committee. This proposal would prohibit law-abiding Massachusetts gun buyers from purchasing more than one firearm per month. Please contact the Judiciary Committee members today and respectfully urge them to oppose H 3991 and any other proposal that limits the rights of lawful gun owners. Also, please contact Governor Patrick and politely ask him to withdraw this anti-gun legislation. Contact information can be found by clicking here.
MAINE (1):
Legislature Defends Maine's Hunting Heritage!
On Wednesday, May 23, the Maine House of Representatives voted 82-60 to uphold an "ought not to pass" recommendation for Legislative Document 1635, "An Act To Prohibit Recreational Bear Trapping." LD 1635 would have abolished the open season on trapping bears. Bear trapping has been a long-standing method of bear hunting in Maine. In fact, the bear management program is based upon the use of this form of hunting in order to maintain a healthy bear population in Maine. Please contact your State Senator today at (207) 287-1583 and your State Representative at (207) 287-1400 to thank them for accepting the "ought not to pass" committee report for LD1635.
MAINE (2):
Waiting Period Bill Defeated in Maine!
Legislative Document 361, legislation that would have mandated a 10-day waiting period for certain individuals who purchase firearms in Maine, was defeated this week. Please contact your State Representative at (207) 287-4469 and your State Senator at (207) 287-1540 to thank them for preserving your Second Amendment rights.
Posted by: kwflatbed
Updates 6/9/2007
ANTI-GUN SENATOR DOES BLOOMBERG'S BIDDING --
Yanks Tiahrt Amendment From Appropriations Bill
Anti-gun Senator Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.), Chairwoman of the Commerce, Justice, Science (CJS) Appropriations Subcommittee, announced she will not include the Tiahrt Amendment in the CJS appropriations bill. In doing so, Mikulski will defy the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATFE) and the Fraternal Order of Police --supporters of the Amendment -- and instead chose to do the bidding of New York City Mayor Michael
Bloomberg (R). While a temporary setback, that is not the final step in the Senate process.
Brady (Disinformation) Campaign Begins Against Parker v. D.C.
Parker v. D.C. may be headed for the U.S. Supreme Court, and the Brady Campaign is worried. In the case, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit declared that the right to arms is an individual right, not limited to active-duty members of the militia, and that D.C.'s bans on handguns, and on having guns assembled and loaded at home, violate the Second Amendment.
The announcement by D.C. city officials that they are considering appealing to the Court has sent the Brady Campaign into panic mode. Brady president, Paul Helmke, blurted out that "The D.C. law is an easy one to shoot at. Factually, it's a tougher one to get behind and defend. Why is this the one we're going to be taking up to the Supremes?"
STATE ROUNDUP
CONNECTICUT:
"Lost or Stolen" Firearms Bill Becomes Reality in Connecticut!
Unfortunately, after four years of successfully keeping the "lost or stolen" firearms bill from becoming law in Connecticut, the State House caved into anti-gun rhetoric and passed Senate Bill 938. SB 938 will make it a crime to fail to report the loss or theft of a handgun to police within 72 hours of when you "discover or should have discovered" it missing. This law will also trigger two more investigations to determine whether or not you "should have discovered" the missing handgun and whether or not you are a "gun trafficker." Please take the time to contact those Legislators who voted " Yes" to turning crime victims into criminals and voice your strong disappointment in their support for this bill. Legislators can be reached at (860) 240-0100 or for help identifying your Legislator and further contact information please click here.
MASSACHUSETTS:
"One-Gun-A-Month" Bill Still Looming In Massachusetts!
House Bill 3991, filed by Governor Deval Patrick (D), is still pending in the Judiciary Committee. This proposal would prohibit law-abiding Massachusetts gun buyers from purchasing more than one firearm per month. Please contact the Judiciary Committee members today and respectfully urge them to oppose H 3991 and any other proposal that limits the rights of lawful gun owners. Also, please contact Governor Patrick and politely ask him to withdraw this anti-gun legislation. Contact information can be found by clicking here.
Posted by: kwflatbed
Updates 6/16/2007
H.R. 2640, THE "NICS IMPROVEMENT ACT,"
PASSES HOUSE BY VOICE VOTE
On June 13, the U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed H.R. 2640, the "NICS Improvement Act," by a voice vote. H.R. 2640 is consistent with NRA's decades-long support for measures to prohibit firearm purchases by those who have been adjudicated by a court as mentally defective or as a danger to themselves or others. Additionally, H.R. 2640 makes needed, and long overdue, improvements to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
While the media continues to characterize this bill as a "gun-control" measure, nothing could be further from the truth. The national media either have not bothered to read and accurately assess the text of the bill, or are deliberately manipulating and "spinning" the facts in order to stir up controversy and forward their agendas.
Here are the facts: H.R. 2640 would provide financial incentives to states to make records of prohibited individuals available for use in the NICS, and would also require federal agencies to provide such records. Those blocked from buying a gun due to these newly provided and updated records in the NICS are already prohibited under current law from owning firearms.
The basic goal of the bill is to make NICS as instant, fair, and accurate as possible. While no piece of legislation will stop a madman bent on committing horrific crimes, those who have been found mentally incompetent by a court should be included in the NICS as they are already prohibited under federal law from owning firearms. H.R. 2640 is sound legislation that makes numerous improvements over existing federal law, including:- Certain types of mental health orders will no longer prohibit a person from possessing or receiving firearms. Adjudications that have expired or been removed, or commitments from which a person has been completely released with no further supervision required, will no longer prohibit the legal purchase of a firearm.
- Excluding federal decisions about a person's mental health that consist only of a medical diagnosis, without a specific finding that the person is dangerous or mentally incompetent. This provision addresses concerns about disability decisions by the Veterans Administration concerning our brave men and women in uniform. (In 2000, as a parting shot at our service members, the Clinton Administration forced the names of almost 90,000 veterans and veterans' family members to be added to a "prohibited" list; H.R. 2640 would help many of these people get their rights restored.)
- Requiring all participating federal or state agencies to establish "relief from disability" programs that would allow a person to get the mental health prohibition removed, either administratively or in court. This type of relief has not been available at the federal level for the past 15 years.
- Ensuring-as a permanent part of federal law-that no fee or tax is associated with a NICS check, an NRA priority for nearly a decade. While NRA has supported annual appropriations amendments with the same effect, those amendments must be renewed every year. This provision would not expire.
- Requiring an audit of past spending on NICS projects to find out if funds appropriated for NICS were misusedfor unrelated purposes.
Neither current federal law, nor H.R. 2640, would prohibit gun possession by people who have voluntarily sought psychological counseling or checked themselves into a hospital:- Current law only prohibits gun possession by people who have been "adjudicated as a mental defective" or "committed to any mental institution." Current BATFE regulations specifically exclude commitments for observation and voluntary commitments. Records of voluntary treatment also would not be available under federal and state health privacy laws.
- Similarly, voluntary drug or alcohol treatment would not be reported to NICS. First, voluntary treatment is not a "commitment." Second, current federal law on gun possession by drug users, as applied in BATFE regulations, only prohibits gun ownership by those whose "unlawful [drug] use has occurred recently enough to indicate that the individual is actively engaged in such conduct."
- In short, neither current law nor this legislation would affect those who voluntarily get psychological help. No person who needs help for a mental health or substance abuse problem should be deterred from seeking that help due to fear of losing Second Amendment rights.
This bill now moves to the Senate for consideration. NRA will continue to work throughout this Congressional process and vigilantly monitor this legislation to ensure that any changes to the NICS benefit lawful gun purchasers, while ensuring that those presently adjudicated by the courts as mentally defective are included in the system.
If anti-gun Members of Congress succeed in attaching any anti-gun amendments to this bill, we will withdraw support and strongly oppose it!
For additional information, please click here: http://www.nraila.org/Issues/FactSheets/Read.aspx?id=219&issue=018.
BLOOMBERG GOING GLOBAL:
On Monday, Canada's CBC News reported on Mayor Michael Bloomberg's "Mayors Against Illegal Guns" coalition turning its sights toward the Great White North. Anti-gun Toronto Mayor David Miller, an advocate of a ban on private handgun ownership, is being courted by coalition member, Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown, to join its ranks.
SENATORS CONRAD AND ROBERTS, REP'S. POMEROY AND MORAN, INTRODUCE "OPEN FIELDS INITIATIVE" BILLS--Measures Would Increase Access to Hunting Grounds:
On May 24, Senators Kent Conrad (D-N.D.) and Pat Roberts (R-Kans.), and Representatives Jerry Moran (R-Kans.) and Earl Pomeroy (D-N.D.), introduced S. 1502 and H.R. 2473, the Voluntary Public Access and Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program Act of 2007.
STATE ROUNDUP(please click to see any updates on states not listed below.)
CONNECTICUT:
"Lost or Stolen" Firearms Bill Becomes Reality in Connecticut!
Unfortunately, after four years of successfully keeping the "lost or stolen" firearms bill from becoming law in Connecticut, the State House caved in to anti-gun rhetoric and passed Senate Bill 938. SB 938 will make it a crime to fail to report the loss or theft of a handgun to police within 72 hours of when you "discover or should have discovered" it missing. This law will also trigger two more investigations to determine whether or not you "should have discovered" the missing handgun and whether or not you are a "gun trafficker." Please take the time to contact those Legislators who voted " Yes" to turning crime victims into criminals and voice your strong disappointment in their support for this bill. Legislators can be reached at (860) 240-0100 or for help identifying your legislator and further contact information please click here.
MASSACHUSETTS:
"One-Gun-A-Month" Bill Still Looming In Massachusetts!
House Bill 3991, filed by Governor Deval Patrick (D), is still pending in the Judiciary Committee. This proposal would prohibit law-abiding Massachusetts gun buyers from purchasing more than one firearm per month. Please contact the Judiciary Committee members today and respectfully urge them to oppose H 3991 and any other proposal that limits the rights of lawful gun owners. Also, please contact Governor Patrick and politely ask him to withdraw this anti-gun legislation. Contact information can be found by clicking here.
Posted by: kwflatbed
Updates 6/23/2007
"NICS IMPROVEMENT AMENDMENTS ACT"
NOT GUN CONTROL!
Last week, when the U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed H.R. 2640, "The NICS Improvement Amendments Act," by a voice vote, some gun owners were confused as to the exact scope and effect of this proactive reform bill. Let's look at the facts.
H.R. 2640 provides federal funds to states to update their mental health records, to ensure that those currently prohibited under federal law from owning a gun because of mental health adjudications are included in the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). For many years, NRA has supported ensuring that those who have been adjudicated mentally incompetent are screened by the NICS.
In several ways this bill is better for gun owners than current law. Under H.R. 2640, certain types of mental health orders will no longer prohibit a person from possessing or receiving a firearm. Examples are adjudications that have expired or been removed, or commitments from which a person has been completely released with no further supervision required. Also excluded are federal decisions about a person's mental health that consist only of a medical diagnosis, without a specific finding that the person is dangerous or mentally incompetent. The latter provision addresses very real concerns about disability decisions by the Veterans Administration concerning our brave men and women in uniform. Remember that one of the Clinton Administration's last acts was to force the names of almost 90,000 veterans and veterans' family members to be added to a "prohibited" list. H.R. 2640 would help many of these people get their rights restored. H.R. 2640 will also require all participating federal or state agencies to establish "relief from disability" programs that would allow a person to get the mental health prohibition removed, either administratively or in court. This type of relief has not been available at the federal level for the past 15 years.
This legislation will also ensure -- as a permanent part of federal law -- that no fee or tax is associated with a NICS check -- a NRA priority for nearly a decade! While NRA has supported annual appropriations amendments with the same effect, those amendments must be renewed every year. This provision would not expire. H.R. 2640 will also mandate an audit of past spending on NICS projects to determine if funds were misusedin any way.
It is also important to note what H.R. 2640 will not do. This bill will not add any new classes of prohibited persons to NICS, and it will not prohibit gun possession by people who have voluntarily sought psychological counseling or checked themselves into a hospital for treatment.
So why the confusion?
First and foremost, the national media elite is irate that NRA has been able to roll back significant portions of the Clinton Administration's anti-gun agenda and pass pro-active legislation in Congress and in many states. They are desperate to put a "gun control" spin on anything they can. The only real question here is -- given the media's long-standing and flagrant bias on the gun issue -- why are some gun owners suddenly swallowing the bait?
Second, some people simply do not like the NICS. In 1993, Congress passed the Brady Act, including a mandatory five-day waiting period, over strong NRA opposition. Due to NRA's insistence, that waiting period was allowed to sunset in 1998, once the NICS was up and running nationwide. Now that the NICS is in place, it makes sense to ensure that this system works as instantly, fairly, and accurately as possible.
Also troubling to many is the fact that Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (D-N.Y.) is a cosponsor of the bill. Carolyn McCarthy is among the most anti-gun Members of Congress. She has introduced another bill, H.R. 1022, which represents the most sweeping gun ban in history. But Rep. McCarthy is not the only co-sponsor of H.R. 2640. She was joined by some of the most pro-gun members of the House of Representatives in crafting this bill, including John Dingell (D-Mich.), Rick Boucher (D-Va.), and Lamar Smith (R-Tex.). A few years ago, when Congress passed a bill allowing airline pilots to be armed, one of the lead sponsors was anti-gun Senator Barbara Boxer (D-Ca.). Sen. Boxer's support of that legislation did not cause gun owners to oppose it.
Finally, some people have asked why the bill passed on a voice vote. The reality is that there's nothing unusual about passing a widely supported bill by voice vote. Even so, the House rules allow any House member to request a recorded vote on any issue, and in practice, those requests are universally granted. Despite having that option on the floor, no representative asked for a roll call on this bill.
H.R. 2640 is now pending in the Senate. Rest assured that if the anti-gunners use this legislation as a vehicle to advance gun control restrictions, NRA will pull our support for the bill and vigorously oppose its passage!
(For additional information, please click here: http://www.nraila.org/Issues/FactSheets/Read.aspx?id=219&issue=018.)
BLOOMBERG HATES TO MISS A PARTY:I
n a surprise announcement this week, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg (R) took a step toward a possible 2008 Presidential run when he renounced his affiliation with the Republican Party and declared himself an Independent.
SOUTHERN STATES PBA SUPPORTS TIAHRT AMENDMENT:
The Southern States Police Benevolent Association (PBA) recently sent a letter of support to U.S. Representative Tiahrt (R), the sponsor of the amendment.
YOUR ACTION NEEDED ON TWO IMPORTANT ANTI-HUNTING MEASURES!
A "Polar Bear Protection Act" rider, offered by Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), was adopted yesterday by the Senate Appropriations Committee to the Interior appropriations bill.
This appropriations rider would prohibit the use of federal funds to issue permits for the importation of trophies of polar bears legally taken from healthy populations in Canada. Stand-alone bills H.R. 2327 and S.R. 1406 would do the same thing. Sportsmen's groups have sent a letter to Congress urging them to consider the facts and not support this bill on its emotional appeal. While few hunters ever have the opportunity to pursue polar bears, all sportsmen must have their voices heard in this critical matter because this is simply one more step in the anti-hunting lobby's effort to incrementally ban all hunting. If they are allowed to prevail regarding the emotional ban on polar bear imports, they will move on to more commonly hunted game.
Also, Senator Diane Feinstein (D-CA) included a provision in the Interior appropriations bill that will result in the overturning of current law and assure the extermination hundreds of healthy elk and mule deer on Santa Rosa Island, off the coast of California. Siding with environmental extremists, Feinstein claims that the Kaibab deer and Roosevelt elk on Santa Rosa Island are destroying natural vegetation and thus, should be indiscriminately exterminated. The Feinstein-sponsored provision would repeal language offered by Representative Duncun Hunter (R-CA) that was enacted into law last year.
Santa Rosa Roosevelt elk and Kaibab mule deer are unique and invaluable, as they are free from Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) and other ailments that threaten the species on the mainland. Forty miles of Pacific Ocean offer them a sanctuary from disease. The healthy and thriving herds can be used as breeding stock to repopulate in case of disaster on the mainland.
The NRA, Safari Club International, the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation, and other sportsmen organizations are fighting these provisions as they make their way through Congress. Please contact your U.S. Senators and urge them to oppose theses provisions.
Because the Interior appropriations bill will be considered in the House on Tuesday and Wednesday, it is critical that you also call your U.S. Representative immediately, and urge him or her to oppose any amendment imposing restrictions on the importation of polar bear trophies or any measure that would result in the extermination of Kaibab deer and Roosevelt elk on Santa Rosa Island.
For contact information for your elected officials, you can use the "Write Your Representatives" feature at www.NRAILA.org, or you can call your U.S. Senators at (202) 224 3121, and your U.S. Representative at (202) 225-3121.
STATE ROUNDUP (please click to see any updates on states not listed below.)
MASSACHUSETTS:
"One-Gun-A-Month" Bill Still Looming In Massachusetts!
House Bill 3991, filed by Governor Deval Patrick (D), is still pending in the Judiciary Committee. This proposal would prohibit law-abiding Massachusetts gun buyers from purchasing more than one firearm per month. Please contact the Judiciary Committee members today and respectfully urge them to oppose H 3991 and any other proposal that limits the rights of lawful gun owners. Also, please contact Governor Patrick and politely ask him to withdraw this anti-gun legislation. Contact information can be found by clicking here.
Posted by: kwflatbed
Urgent Update 6/27/2007
America's Most Radical Anti-Hunting Organization
Attempting to Take Major Step Toward Goal of Banning All Hunting
The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and other radical hunting ban organizations are attempting to capitalize on raw emotion to take a major step in Congress toward their primary goal of ending all hunting species by species. They are taking a page from the incremental playbook of the gun ban crowd.
HSUS is attempting to amend H.R. 2643, the House Interior Appropriations Bill, to effectively prohibit Americans from hunting polar bears from healthy and sustainable populations in Canada. As all sportsmen know, hunters provide the funding and motivation for wildlife conservation worldwide. There is no better example of this than the modern polar bear conservation efforts.
Contrary to HSUS' emotional and misleading claims, the proposed amendment will not reduce the number of polar bears killed by hunters in Canada. The Canadian government, based upon principles of sound science, will continue to issue bear tags to native populations. Those tags will continue to be filled by native subsistence hunters and hunters from other nations. The amendment will, however, reduce funding for polar bear conservation by significantly decreasing the revenue raised through tag sales.
While only a small number of American hunters will ever have the opportunity to hunt polar bears, this is a critical issue for every U.S. hunter. HSUS' Wayne Pacelle said it best when he boasted, "We will take it species by species until all hunting is stopped." Today it is polar bears but they will be going after the species you hunt tomorrow. They have already campaigned to stop the hunting of doves, black bears, cougar and deer in numerous jurisdictions throughout America.
The vote on this anti-hunting amendment is likely to occur within the next 24 hours. Please act now to save the future of our time honored hunting heritage. Call or email your Congressman and ask him or her to vote "NO" on the Inslee Polar Bear Amendment to H.R. 2643.
Call your U.S. Representative at (202) 225-3121. To send email or for additional contact information for your elected officials, you can use the "Write Your Representatives" feature at www.NRAILA.org.
Posted by: kwflatbed
Update 6/30/2007
U.S. SENATE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE PASSES SHELBY AMENDMENT PROTECTING TRACE DATA SECURITY
NRA-ILA welcomed the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee's action yesterday to reinstate language commonly known as the Tiahrt Amendment into the Commerce, Justice, and Science appropriations bill. The amendment, offered by Senator Richard Shelby (R-AL), passed with broad bipartisan support. This language would keep sensitive firearm trace information in the hands of law enforcement and out of the hands of politicians and special interest groups to use to further their anti-gun crusades. The committee also rejected a Lautenberg-Feinstein Amendment that would have gutted the Shelby Amendment.
ANTI-HUNTING INSLEE-LOBIONDO POLAR BEAR AMENDMENT DEFEATED:
NRA applauds this week's Congressional vote to defeat the Inslee-LoBiondo Amendment to H.R. 2643, the House Interior Appropriations bill. The amendment was defeated 188-242.
"The defeat of the Inslee-LoBiondo Amendment is a significant victory for hunters and another demoralizing defeat for the anti-hunting Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and American Hunters and Shooters Association (AHSA)," declared NRA-ILA Executive Director Chris W. Cox. "The anti-hunting lobby persists in their effort to try to ban hunting, species by species everywhere, even though the science and the facts are not on their side. Well today, those anti-hunting extremists lost."
NRA COMMENTS ON SUPREME COURT DECISION IN WISCONSIN RIGHT-TO-LIFE CAMPAIGN FINANCE SUIT:
NRA commends this week's decision by the United States Supreme Court that limits the reach of the Bi-Partisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002 (BCRA) in its restriction of pre-election advertising. The NRA filed an amicus brief in the Wisconsin Right-to-Life case.
RAISING AWARENESS ON-LINE: PERSON-TO-PERSON-TO-PERSON NETWORKING:
Internet social networking has exploded in recent years. Websites such as MySpace, YouTube, and Facebook attract millions of teens and young adults. These on-line communities foster a connection between their users, and user-generated content (like pictures, profiles, music, video) is all the rage with young adults, often to the bewilderment of their elders.
Until recently, this has been unexplored territory for NRA's grassroots efforts. Not anymore!
MAKE YOURSELF HEARD AT TOWN HALL MEETINGS!
Congress will be on its Independence Day District Work Period next week. During this time, your Senators and Representative will be back home in their states and districts.
Please contact your lawmakers' district offices and ask when they plan to hold their town hall meetings during the break. If you do not know the number for your lawmakers' district offices, you can use the "Write Your Representatives" tool at www.NRAILA.org, or call the NRA-ILA Grassroots Division at (800) 392-8683.
NOW CASTING FOR "THE ALASKA EXPERIMENT":
Ricochet Television, a major network television producer, is conducting a nationwide search to find daring outdoorsmen and women to take part in a brand new adventure docu-series for an undisclosed high profile cable network. The television series will be shot on location in Alaska and is about survival in the great outdoors. A wilderness expert will assist the cast once they are selected. Hunting with firearms, building shelter, preparing for the cold, and gathering food are an integral part of the new show. Adventurers interested in applying should call (88
7CASTING, or log onto www.TheAlaskaExperiment.com for the application and more information.
STATE ROUNDUP(please click to see any updates)
Posted by: kwflatbed
Update 7/7/2007
PROPOSED "SAFETY" REGULATIONS WOULD DRY UP AMMUNITION SALES
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has proposed new rules that would have a dramatic effect on the storage and transportation of ammunition and handloading components. The proposed rule indiscriminately treats ammunition, powder and primers as "explosives."
The public comment period ends July 12. To file your own comment, or to learn more about the OSHA proposal, click here or go to http://www.regulations.gov/ and search for Docket Number OSHA-2007-0032"; you can read OSHA's proposal and learn how to submit comments electronically, or by fax or mail.
MISSOURI GOVERNOR SIGNS CASTLE DOCTRINE, HUNTING PRESERVATION BILLS INTO LAW:
In a recent fly-around tour across Missouri, NRA-ILA Executive Director Chris W. Cox joined Governor Matt Blunt (R) at bill signing ceremonies for two of NRA-ILA's top legislative priorities. SB 62, Missouri's "Castle Doctrine" bill, removes the "duty to retreat" for victims of criminal attack; while SB 225, the "Hunting Heritage Protection Areas Act," preserves important wildlife habitat and hunting opportunities for future Missouri generations.
STATE ROUNDUP
(please click to see any updates)
Posted by: kwflatbed
Update 7/14/2007
THE FACTS ABOUT OSHA'S AMMUNITION PROPOSAL:
A recent proposal for new "explosives safety" regulations by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has rightly caused a flurry of concern among gun owners and those in the firearm business. OSHA had set out to make legitimate updates to workplace safety regulations pertaining to explosives; unfortunately, the proposed rule goes far beyond regulating true explosives. The proposed rules include restrictions that very few gun stores, sporting goods stores, shippers, or ammunition dealers could comply with.
STATE ROUNDUP(please click to see any updates)
Posted by: BB-59
Very basically it say any time that explosives are moved including ammunition, gun powder, and primers, that everyone would have to evacuate the building.
And no LE was not exempt.
Posted by: kwflatbed
Update 8/4/07
eBay Expands Its Anti-Gun Policy:
Years ago, eBay banned the sale of all complete firearms on its online auction and shopping website. However, they did continue to allow the sale of parts and many accessories. This week, a spokesman for eBay announced that the company would ban the sale of all gun-and-ammunition-related parts and components.
STATE ROUNDUP(please click to see)
MAINE:
Session Ends With Two Pro-Gun Measures Enacted Into Law
Governor John Baldacci (D) signed two important pro-gun bills into law. Championed by State Representative Rich Cebra (R-101), LD148 would direct the Commissioner of Public Safety to work in cooperation with the Attorney General to conduct a comprehensive review of other states' concealed weapon laws for the purpose of identifying and seeking other states with which Maine may enter into a concealed weapon reciprocity agreement. Also sponsored by Representative Cebra, LD1156 will amend the Maine Criminal Code to protect individuals from civil prosecution if the degree of force was justified.
Posted by: kwflatbed
8 25/07
Poll Finds 66% Of Voters Want No New Gun Laws
A recent Zogby International poll conducted for Associated Television News found that 66% of the American voting public rejects the idea that new gun control laws are needed.
The poll asked: "Which of the following two statements regarding gun control comes closer to your own opinion?
Statement A: There needs to be new and tougher gun control legislation to help in the fight against gun crime.
Statement B: There are enough laws on the books. What is needed is better enforcement of current laws regarding gun control."
Conversely, the poll found that just 31% of the American public thinks new and tougher gun control laws are needed, and that voters who support better enforcement of existing gun laws are found across virtually all demographic groups, and in all regions of the country.
Jesse Jackson Announces A Day Of Anti-Gun Reckoning--And What You Can Do About It:
On August 28, Rev. Jesse Jackson is organizing an anti-gun protest in up to 25 cities nationwide. Not willing to lay the blame for crime on criminals, Jackson and his cronies claim, "people who buy guns from gun shops kill people." Since the sale of every firearm from every licensed gun dealer is subject to a background check, it is unclear how the millions of law-abiding Americans who go through this mandated check and legally "buy guns from gun shops" are responsible for killing people. Then again, though, Jackson is never one to let the facts get in the way of a misguided PR opportunity.
STATE ROUNDUP (please click to see any updates)
Posted by: BB-59
We, Law Enforcement have to start getting involved before we loose our 2nd Amendment Rights.
Contact our unions and shake the Tree of Liberty!
Posted by: kwflatbed
Updates: 8/31/07
Yesterday, the "Virginia Tech Review Panel" released its report on April's horrific mass murder on campus. Most media attention has rightly focused on failures of communication. These include failures to share information between university officials, mental health counselors, campus police, and killer Seung Hui Cho's parents, as well as the university's failure to promptly notify students, faculty and staff promptly about the first two shootings on campus. Yet while the panel effectively reviewed those issues, it used its chapter on "Gun Purchase and Campus Policies" to promote an anti-gun agenda that has no relationship to this spring's tragedy. Many of its findings and recommendations are contradictory; none would have had an effect on Cho's rampage.
Recent Study On Media Bias Shows Need For Gun Owners To Speak Out:
The Culture and Media Institute (CMI) recently released a report entitled "The Media Assault on the Second Amendment." Its findings will not surprise you.
According to the study, in the first seven months of 2007, the three major networks ran some 650 stories on firearm-related homicides, yet only two covering the use of guns for self-defense. Considering guns are used three to five times more often for self-defense than to commit a crime, this disproportion is staggering.
Commemorating Katrina's Second Anniversary - And Vowing Never To Forget:
As we commemorate the second anniversary of the devastating hurricane that ravished the New Orleans-area, let us remember all of its victims, including the Second Amendment. With local law enforcement officials engaged in a concerted effort to confiscate the lawfully owned arms of New Orleans' residents after the storm, those who claimed "it could never happen here" learned that the U.S. is not immune to illegal gun confiscations. If you've forgotten how the Second Amendment was trampled upon following Hurricane Katrina, or if you have friends or family members who still naively believe "it can't happen here," please see NRA's compelling video on the subject by clicking here.
STATE ROUNDUP (please click to see any updates)
Posted by: kwflatbed
Updates 9/8/07
With the United Nations continuing its efforts to enact draconian, transnational gun control laws in countries around the world, yesterday the U.S. Senate passed the Foreign Operations appropriations bill, which included an amendment by Senator David Vitter (R-LA) that seeks to address the U.N.'s ongoing international gun ban efforts.
Corruption Run Amok Within Anti-Gun Ranks:
A recent spate of contemptible allegations has shaken up some prominent players within the ranks of the anti-gun community.
D.C. Officially Petitions SCOTUS To Hear Gun Ban Case:
This week, the District of Columbia formally filed its petition for review, asking the Supreme Court to hear its appeal of Parker v. District of Columbia (now District of Columbia v. Heller).
National Gathering Of Conservatives To Feature NRA Grassroots Seminar:
Conservatives from around the country will convene in Reno, NV, October 11-13, for the 2007 "Conservative Leadership Conference" (CLC). In addition to the numerous training seminars and political discussions featuring some of the nation's most prominent political figures and movement leaders, NRA-ILA Grassroots Director Glen Caroline will be conducting a seminar titled: "Grassroots Lobbying: Turning Up The Heat." For more information on CLC '07 and to register, please visit http://www.clc07.com/.