There is some good and some bad coming through the House right now. I read the texts of HR17, HR45, and HR197, and composed the following note to Rep. Defazio (a Dem, but not beyond redemption in the whole sphere of gun rights).:
H.R.17 : To protect the right to obtain firearms for security, and to use firearms in defense...
This is a simple, common sense piece of legislation and I urge you to sign on and actively support it.
H.R.45 : To provide for the implementation of a system of licensing for purchasers of certain firearms and for a record of sale system...
This proposal has so many flaws it would take too much space to describe all of them in a short note, so I'll make a couple broad generalizations:
It places many undue burdens on law abiding citizens that would, as usual, not be endured by criminals, and so it would not likely protect one future “Blair Holt”. This is not just a cynical position, history bears it out.
Almost every part of it interferes in some way with legitimate state powers and/or individual rights. Where any provision of it could possibly be deemed good and proper, it would be more appropriately addressed through state law.
It would be nearly impossible to make this legislation palatable in any way through amendments.
I urge you to actively oppose it.
H.R.197: National Right-to-Carry Reciprocity Act of 2009
In general, I am opposed to requirements for “permits” to carry concealed weapons, even on a “shall issue” basis. Anyone who legally owns firearms substantially meets the requirements for a permit in most states and oughtn't be burdened with further paperwork and fees. But since some states don't recognize a universal right to carry concealed (as much as I believe it exists), I believe it's in the national interest to have some uniformity in carrying requirements for folks traveling across state lines. This legislation is simple to understand and straightforward as written, and would be a step in the right direction.
I urge you to sign on and actively support this legislation.
I'm looking forward to hearing what you intend to do with regard to these particular bills.
Thank you,
David xxxxxx
placemarker