Question for the reader: Where have we seen that propensity before, and where did it eventually lead? Think hard; there will be a test later.
Posted on 01/22/2004 11:00:51 AM PST by neverdem
Some want to ditch listing of permits for concealed guns
A conservative House coalition will try to erase from law enforcement databases the list of those who received concealed-carry gun permits.
The listing requirement - part of last year's concealed-carry law - makes criminals out of law-abiding citizens, the Republican lawmakers contend, saying the list of weapons holders is often mixed with criminal offenders in computer databases.
"I think you shouldn't have to go on a state 'scarlet letter' list for exercising a personal freedom," said Rep. Shawn Mitchell, R-Broomfield.
But a sheriff's group says it will fight the move because the listing of permits helps law enforcement more efficiently keep track of who has the right to carry a concealed weapon.
"The sheriffs are very concerned that changes in a bill we just enacted are being made without any indication that anything is wrong," said Peg Ackerman, a lobbyist for the County Sheriffs of Colorado.
The law, which became effective May 19, requires county sheriffs to issue permits to any law-abiding citizen who is 21 or older, has no felony criminal background, is not under any restraining order and does not have a serious alcohol or drug problem.
The person must undergo a fingerprint criminal background check and take and pass a course on handgun safety.
The person is also barred from carrying the guns where banned by federal law, such as in airports, public schools and public buildings with metal detectors, or in any private building where they are barred.
Before the law was passed last year, each police chief and sheriff in Colorado set his or her own rules for carrying concealed weapons. As a result, the number of permits varied widely from one community to another and record-keeping was a patchwork affair.
This year's bill was introduced by Rep. Bill Crane, R-Arvada, who said he worries that others could get access to the database.
He also doesn't want police to stop anyone just because they have such a permit.
"They will harass a law-abiding citizen who is carrying a weapon," he said. "I have a problem with Big Brother looking over law-abiding shoulders."
Oops. I guess that's the problem with compromising by conceding new infringements. Once you sell your soul, it's difficult to get it back.
Oh, well. At least you Coloradans didn't fall for the ultimate sellout: mandatory registration of carry guns -- a la MN and MO -- did you?
Is that special. Individual rights are denied or disparage for the sake of "efficiency."
Why?
Question for the reader: Where have we seen that propensity before, and where did it eventually lead? Think hard; there will be a test later.
He asks in total disbelief: How on earth are they going to define a human being with an 'alcohol problem'? LOLOLOL and really LOUD!
Then shouldn't the database include every citizen who has reached the age of majority and who has not had their civil rights taken away by a court?
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