Brady Ad Off-Target
We have reported many times on the Brady Campaign’s rush to exploit tragedy for political gain. Since its inception as the National Council to Control Handguns over 30 years ago, the group has premised its entire agenda on this kind of exploitation for political gain, and on the notion that having more gun control laws and, therefore, fewer guns, means that crime must necessarily decrease.
Since the senseless January 8 attack on U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and her innocent staff and constituents, anti-Second Amendment groups have been working overtime to exploit the tragedy to resurrect their political agendas. The Brady Campaign’s most recent, tasteless ploy may represent a new low.
The group has coined the term “assault clip” to describe magazines that are capable of holding more than 10 rounds. They are claiming that these “assault clips” lead to more crime and should therefore be banned. This is nothing more than a rehash of the magazine bans they’ve been supporting for nearly two decades, but they promote it with a despicable twist.
Partial Delisting of Recovered Wolf Populations: An Important First Step
This week, NRA thanked Members of Congress for taking an important step in the right direction for wolf and game species conservation. The continuing resolution for FY 2011, scheduled for votes later this week, includes a general provision that delists certain populations of wolves from the Endangered Species Act. Wolf populations in Montana and Idaho as well as portions of Utah, Oregon and Washington would be declared recovered by reinstating the 2009 ruling from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), paving the way for regulated wolf hunting seasons. NRA would also like to thank the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, the Boone and Crockett Club, and Safari Club International for joining together in this important effort to place the states in charge of wolf conservation.
(Please see related article below.)
Statement From NRA-ILA Executive Director Chris W. Cox On Wolf Delisting Efforts: NRA is pleased with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's (FWS) science-based proposal to remove gray wolves in Minnesota, Michigan and Wisconsin from the Endangered Species Act, citing recovered populations that far exceed original delisting goals across the Western Great Lakes area. This sends an important message to anti-hunting extremists who have blocked previous delisting attempts of these populations through litigation. Decisions on wildlife management issues ought to be based on science and not on politics or emotion. Hunters are the true conservationists and managing wolf population through regulated hunting, as we do with other species, is the best course for everyone and every creature concerned. In addition to this week’s congressional action of delisting certain recovered wolf populations across the West, this FWS proposal is another positive development. NRA has worked for years to ensure these science-based delistings occur and is resolutely focused on more comprehensive solutions moving forward.
Urge Your Representative To Cosponsor H.R. 822, The National Right-to-Carry Reciprocity Act Of 2011: Congressmen Cliff Stearns (R-Fla.) and Heath Shuler (D-N.C.) have introduced vital legislation that will enable millions of permit holders to exercise their right to self-defense while traveling outside their home states.
There are now only two states that have no clear legal way for individuals to carry concealed firearms for self-defense. Thirty-seven states have shall-issue permit systems that make it possible for any law-abiding person to obtain a permit, while most of the others have discretionary permit systems (Vermont has never required a permit).
Deadline Nears On BATFE Shotgun Ban Comments: As we reported on Jan. 28, May 1 is the deadline for public comments concerning a shotgun importation ban that has been proposed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. A working group within the BATFE has recommended that any shotgun (semi-automatic, pump-action or any other) that has any one of 10 specific features should be banned from importation, on the grounds that such shotguns are not “generally recognized as particularly suitable for a readily adaptable to sporting purposes.”
Plan To Attend Free Grassroots Workshop At NRA’s Upcoming Annual Meetings In Pittsburgh, PA! In anticipation of a hectic legislative session at both the federal and state levels, and in order to lay the foundation for a successful campaign season in 2012, NRA-ILA will be hosting a FREE Grassroots Workshop on Friday, April 29, in conjunction with NRA’s Annual Meetings in Pittsburgh.
Panelists Announced For Special ILA Seminar! In addition to the FREE Grassroots Workshop being held in conjunction with this year’s Annual Meetings in Pittsburgh, the NRA-ILA Grassroots Division will be holding a special seminar.
ILA Dinner and Auction Sponsored By Universal Coin And Bullion: The Institute for Legislative Action will hold its Fifth Annual Dinner and Auction in conjunction with the NRA Annual Meetings in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on Friday evening, April 29th.
The Fifth Annual NRA-ILA Dinner and Auction will allow you to show your continued support for NRA-ILA, and enjoy a great evening filled with good food, friends, and an excellent live and silent auction.
This year, the auction will be held at Heinz Field. Don’t miss your opportunity to bid on one-of-a-kind firearms, original artwork, knives, hunts and wines. This is also a great chance to meet NRA officers and ILA staff.
For more information or to purchase tickets, contact John Commerford, 703-267-1141 or visit www.nraila.org/ilaauction.
Another Way To Get Involved--Join NRA’s Facebook And Twitter Groups: Internet social networking has exploded in recent years, and websites such as Facebook and Twitter attract millions of users. This on-line community fosters a connection between its users, and allows distribution of user-generated content (like pictures, profiles, music, video, and text).
Grassroots News Minute Video: To view this week’s "Grassroots News Minute" video, please click here:
STATE ROUNDUP (Please note the only items listed below are those that have had recent action. For other updates on state legislation, please go to the state legislation section at www.NRAILA.org, and check each week’s issue of the Grassroots Alert.)
For additional information, please click on the links provided.
ALABAMA: New Pro-Gun Bill Introduced in the State Legislature
House Bill 450, a fraudulent firearms purchase prevention bill, was recently introduced in the Alabama Legislature for their 2011 session. Please contact your state Representative and respectfully urge him or her to support HB 450.
ARIZONA: Campus Protection Legislation Goes to the Governor!
On April 7, Senate Bill 1467 passed in the state House and has been sent to Governor Jan Brewer. SB 1467 would enable those legally allowed to carry a firearm on a college or university campus to do so. However, this legislation does not prevent colleges or universities from prohibiting the carrying of a firearm inside campus buildings. Please contact Governor Jan Brewer today and respectfully urge her to sign SB 1467 into law.
CALIFORNIA: Anti-Gun Bills Pass Senate and Assembly Public Safety Committees
On April 12, the state Senate and Assembly Public Safety Committees passed three anti-guns bills and one pro-gun bill. The anti-gun bills were: Senate Bill 124 (reclassify most lead ammunition as “armor piercing”), Assembly Bill 144 (ban open carrying of firearms), and Assembly Bill 809 (require long gun registration). The pro-gun bill was Assembly Bill 1402 (makes a technical clean-up of deadly weapons laws). Please contact members of the state Senate and Assembly Appropriations Committee and urge them to oppose SB 124, AB 144 and AB 809.
COLORADO: Natural Resources Merger Bill to be Heard in State Senate
Senate Bill 208, which would combine State Parks and the Division of Wildlife under the Department of Natural Resources, is up for consideration in the state Senate on April 18. The NRA has remained neutral on this legislation, but expressed detailed concerns about this merger in a letter sent to lawmakers on the committee.
FLORIDA: A Bill to Restore Rights to Concealed Weapons License Holders Passes Committee
On April 13, Senate Bill 234 passed in the Senate Judiciary Committee. SB 234 would make two changes to the “Right-to-Carry” law and it would also conform Florida’s firearms purchase law with federal law.
Bills to STOP Doctors Violating Gun Privacy Rights Pass Committees
On April 12, Senate Bill 432 passed in Senate Judiciary Committee and House Bill 155 passed in the House Judiciary Committee. Both of these bills would stop anti-gun doctors from asking children and parents if they own guns and then telling them to get rid of their guns.
GEORGIA: Georgia General Assembly Adjourns Without Passing Emergency Powers Legislation
On April 14, the Georgia General Assembly adjourned. Unfortunately, Senate Bill 26, emergency powers legislation, is dead for this legislative session.
INDIANA: State House Moves Two More Gun Bills!
On April 13, the House Public Policy Committee passed Senate Bill 292, the Firearm Preemption Reform bill. It could be considered by the state House as early as today. Also on April 13, the House gave final approval to Senate Bill 506, the Transport Permit Reform Bill. This bill now heads to a conference committee to work out the clarifying amendments made in the House. Please contact your state Representative and urge him or her to support SB 292 and SB 506.
IOWA: Gun Rights Restoration Bill Passes House and Goes to Governor
On April 12, Senate File 456 passed on the state House floor and will now go to Governor Terry Branstad for his approval. SF 456 is designed to improve the language under last session’s "shall-issue" law and allow Iowa state law to meet the requirements set forth in the federal NICS Improvement Amendments Act (NIAA) of 2007. Please contact Governor Branstad TODAY and respectfully urge him to sign SF 456 into law.
Ban on Lead Shot Proposed by Natural Resources Commission
Iowa’s Natural Resources Commission has announced its intent to ban hunters’ use of lead shot on numerous state and federal wildlife areas across Iowa, except for use for turkey and deer hunting. Written comments are being accepted until April 27, so please e-mail Dale Garner, Wildlife Bureau Chief, and express your opposition to this proposed ban.
MISSOURI: Expanded Hunter Opportunities in the Show Me State
Senate Bill 300 would allow hunters to use centerfire handguns during the state’s muzzleloader hunting seasons. This bill has passed the state Senate and is currently awaiting action in the state House. Please contact your state Representative and ask that he or she support SB 300.
MONTANA: Final Legislative Hurdle for Permitless Carry Expected this Monday
On April 12, the state House adopted the Conference Committee report for House Bill 271, permitless carry legislation. The state Senate will vote on the Conference Committee report for HB 271 this Monday, April 18. Please contact your state Senator today and urge him or her to support the Conference Committee amendment to House Bill 271.
Suppressor Bill Tabled in Senate Judiciary Committee
House Bill 174 was tabled in the state Senate Judiciary Committee; however, there is an effort underway to get the bill out of committee. HB 174 would legalize the possession and use of suppressors by a person in the field or forest. Please contact members of the Senate Judiciary Committee and urge them to support HB 174.
NEBRASKA: Pro-Gun Bill Moves to Final Reading in the State Legislature
On April 12, LB 512 was advanced from Select File to Final Reading. LB 512 would require the state to provide mental health information to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) database and provide a relief-from-disabilities process.
NEVADA: Campus Protection Act Moves to the Senate Floor
Senate Bill 231, the Nevada Campus Protection Act, will be considered in the state Senate next week. Please contact your state Senator and respectfully urge him or her to support SB 231.
NEW HAMPSHIRE: No Action Taken at Hearing on Castle Doctrine Bill
On April 12, the House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee heard Senate Bill 88, an important self-defense bill, but no action was taken.
NORTH CAROLINA: Deadline for Introducing New Legislation in the House of Representatives Finalizes House Agenda for this Session
Some pro-gun bills that have been recently introduced in the state House include a castle doctrine bill, right-to-carry reform bill, firearms purchase bill, pistol and crossbow bill, omnibus gun bill, and fraudulent firearms purchase prevention. Additionally, House Bill 29, which authorizes a hunter to use a portable light and a dog on a leash to retrieve a dead or wounded big game animal, was signed into law.
NORTH DAKOTA: Employee Protection Bill Signed by Governor Dalrymple
Today, April 15, House Bill 1438 was signed into law by Governor Jack Dalrymple. This bill will allow employees to lawfully store their firearms in locked personal vehicles on publicly-accessible parking lots without fear of being fired. HB 1438 will go into effect on August 1.
OHIO: State Senate Passes Two Pro-Gun Bills; Bills Now Move to the House
On April 13, the state Senate passed two important pro-gun reform bills; Senate Bill 17 would clarify the law regarding carrying a firearm in a motor vehicle and allow a permit holder to carry a firearm in a restaurant and Senate Bill 61 would restore gun rights for certain individuals. Both bills now move to the state House for consideration.
OKLAHOMA: Committee Action Deadline Brings Legislative Agenda into Focus
The Parking Lot/Employee Protection expansion bill passed in the Senate Rules Committee last week and now heads to the Senate floor. The Castle Doctrine expansion bill passed in the Senate Public Safety Committee last week and now heads to the Senate floor. Other pro-gun bills did not pass out of committee and will thus lie dormant until next year.
OREGON: NICS Legislation to be Heard in State House Judiciary Committee
House Bill 2791 would remove the Department of State Police as the designated state point of contact for the purposes of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). HB 2791 is scheduled to be heard in the House Judiciary Committee on Tuesday, April 19. Please contact members of the House Judiciary Committee and respectfully urge them to support HB 2791.
PENNSYLVANIA: Longstanding Hunting Tradition Under Attack Again!
On April 12, Senate Bill 626 passed in the Senate Judiciary Committee. This bill would criminalize and ban organized bird shoots in Pennsylvania. Please contact members of the Senate Judiciary Committee who voted to pass SB 626 and let them know how disappointed you are that they supported the radical “animal rights” agenda.
Castle Doctrine Bill Passes House and Moves to the Senate
House Bill 40, Castle Doctrine legislation, would permit law-abiding citizens to use force, including deadly force, against an attacker in their home and any place outside of their home where they have a legal right to be. This bill passed in the state House on April 12, and now moves to the state Senate for its committee assignment.
SOUTH DAKOTA: Lead Ban Proposal Shot Down
At its meeting last week, the South Dakota Fish and Game Commission voted down the proposed ban on the use of lead shot for hunting along roads and rights-of-way. This issue arose after a private landowner filed a petition with the Game, Fish and Parks Commission.
VIRGINIA: Attorney General Issues Opinion on Carry Statute
On April 8, Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli issued an advisory opinion in response to Delegate Mark Cole’s request as to whether it is permissible for a citizen to carry his firearm into a place of worship for personal safety purposes and whether a church may ban weapons on its property under §18.2-283.
Governor Signs Two Remaining NRA-Supported Bills
The Virginia General Assembly reconvened on April 6 to vote on amendments by Governor Bob McDonnell for legislation passed in this session. House Bill 1422 (exempt a firearm during bankruptcy) and Senate Bill 757 (pneumatic guns discharged on private property) were slightly amended to provide better clarification of the bills’ intent. Both bills were enacted after passage and will go into effect on July 1, 2011. Please thank Delegate Albo and Senator Reynolds for sponsoring these pro-gun reform bills.
WASHINGTON: Anti-Self-Defense Bill Takes a Serious Blow
The hearing for House Bill 2067 was cancelled and this bill is likely dead for this legislative session. HB 2067 would have repealed the existing Washington law that provides for the reimbursement of legal defense costs to law-abiding citizens who are charged with a crime but found not guilty by reason of self-defense.
Legislation to Legalize the Use of Firearm Suppressors Signed into Law
On April 11, House Bill 1016 was signed into law by Governor Christine Gregoire. HB 1016, legalizing the use of firearm suppressors, will take effect 90 days after adjournment.
WISCONSIN: More Unnecessary Regulation Being Proposed for Right-to-Carry Bills
Key legislators who have supported past Right-to-Carry bills in Wisconsin have recently begun to demand that an unnecessary mandatory training provision be a component of any Right-to-Carry bill introduced this year. Please contact your state legislators and ask that they support your Right-to-Carry, and oppose the imposition of needless mandates and restrictions.
