Fairfax, VA - Today Sens. Larry Craig (R-ID) and Max Baucus (D-MT) introduced S. 397, “The Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act”, in the United States Senate. This critical legislation protects law-abiding firearms manufacturers from reckless lawsuits blaming them for the acts of criminals. Reps. Cliff Stearns (R-FL) and Rick Boucher (D-VA) introduced the companion House measure (H.R. 800) yesterday.
“The Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act” enjoys support from organizations across the political spectrum, including U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Association of Manufacturers, the National Association of Wholesalers, and numerous labor unions. Thirty-three states have already enacted similar laws.
Commenting on the introduction of this bill, NRA chief lobbyist Chris W. Cox said, “After being defeated at the ballot box and in the legislative arena, the gun control lobby is trying to use activist judges to bankrupt a law-abiding American industry. U.S. firearms manufacturers have already spent over $200 million in legal fees, yet have not been found liable by a single court for the criminal misuse of their legal products.
“If this legislation is not passed, the American firearms industry could be permanently destroyed. It is not in our national security interests to rely on China, Russia or France to equip our military and law enforcement personnel. The NRA looks forward to working with the House, Senate and Administration to pass this much-needed legislation as soon as possible,” concluded Cox.
-‑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 advocates 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 armed services.