Arizona Members, Help Pass The Shooting Range Preservation Bill

As many of you know, the Ben Avery Shooting Facility (BASF) is one of the country`s best shooting ranges. It has come under attack in recent years because of encroaching development. The NRA, with the City of Phoenix and others, is working hard to pass HB 2158, the Shooting Range Preservation bill. This bill would place zoning provisions under state law to protect against future conflicts between the range and its encroaching neighbors. In addition, it would require approval by the Legislature and the Governor if the Fish and Game Commission attempts to dispose of all or a part of the range.  HB 2158 is critical to BASF`s long-term survival. Well-financed opposition is making the claim that the bill violates private property rights. This is untrue in light of the fact that the land affected is entirely owned by the state and federal government. The bill is currently being held in the Rules Committee by Representative Karen Johnson (R-18).  Please call Representative Johnson at (602) 926-4467 and tell her that HB 2158 deserves a full and fair vote on the House floor. Also, please contact your state representative and ask that he protect BASF by supporting HB 2158.  HB 2648, the Restaurant Carry bill, is also a critical bill in this year`s session. It will eliminate the prohibition on carrying firearms for self-defense in most restaurants that serve alcohol. This will bring Arizona in line with the vast majority of all states in the country. Please contact your legislator in support of HB 2648.  You can find contact information for you legislator by using the "Write Your Representative" feature at www.NRAILA.org.