ST: So how did you get to where you are today, no HUD agreement, no Boston consent decree?
Scott: As noted the new administration in Washington has informed us it has no interest in pursuing any aspect of the HUD agreement. I believe they have a realistic approach to addressing issues related to firearms and crime. They do not believe in blackmailing a legal industry that manufactures and distributes a legal product in compliance with a host of federal, state and local laws.
ST: And what about Boston?
Scott: We had a number of discussions with Boston over the impracticality of the consent decree and its impact on S&W.When Boston dropped its suit against the other manufacturers we asked to receive the same consideration. Like others in the industry we are willing to address issues and solutions that are practical and in everyone’s interest. Boston had found that working with the industry was more productive than expensive litigation. In our case they did ask the judge to vacate the consent decree and allow us to pursue the same positive course of action as other manufacturers.We are very appreciative of the cooperation and understanding we received from the plaintiffs’ representatives while we worked our way through the difficult issues with Boston.