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Pro-Gun Rally at Capitol Takes Aim at Firearm RulesBy Erica Terrini of Capital News Service Tuesday, January 18, 2011 RICHMOND – Hundreds of pro-gun advocates rallied at the Capitol on Monday to ease firearm regulations in Virginia. At the same time, they bemoaned the recent shooting rampage in Arizona.The rally was organized by the Virginia Citizens Defense League, which supports 23 pro-gun proposals pending before the General Assembly. They include House Bill 1732, which would require Virginia to recognize carry concealed weapons permits issued by other states. On the Web
Here is how to track and comment on some bills concerning guns: Speakers at the rally commented on the Jan. 8 shooting in Tucson, Ariz., where U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords was meeting with constituents. A gunman killed six people, including a federal judge, and wounded 12 others, including Giffords. “What happened in Arizona was despicable,” said Delegate Scott Lingamfelter, R-Woodbridge. “Whether you agree with politicians with one party or another, when someone is standing there working hard to enjoy and reinforce the First Amendment, nobody has the right to ruin lives like that despicable person.” Lingamfelter then led a moment of silence for the victims in Arizona, where a 22-year-old Tucson man has been charged with murder and attempted murder. Phillip Van Cleave, president of the Virginia Citizens Defense League, said the Tucson shootings were regrettable. He said the incident might have been avoided if a gun-carrying citizen had been on the scene. “The truth of the matter is the American citizen is more often than not the first responder in America,” Van Cleave said. “Standing in this crowd, we probably have 200 firearms present … This is one of the safest places in Richmond right now.” Van Cleave and his organization support several bills that would make it easier to own and carry guns. For instance, Senate Bill 1250, sponsored by Sen. Jill Holtzman Vogel, R-Winchester, would prohibit any state agency from enacting gun control without legislative permission. The General Assembly also is considering several bills that would regulate guns more closely. For instance, HB 1669, sponsored by Delegate Jennifer McClellan, D-Richmond, would require criminal background checks before people can buy firearms at gun shows. (Such checks already are required for gun purchases made at stores.) Additionally, HB 1600, proposed by Delegate Mamye BaCote, D-Newport News, would allow libraries to ban guns. Delegate Patrick Hope, D-Arlington, is the chief patron for HB 1813, which would ban firearms from the Capitol and the General Assembly Building. Guns would have to be stored at the door; legislators would be exempt from the law. Later Monday, advocates for gun control – led by the Virginia Center for Public Safety – also gathered at the Capitol. They held a vigil for the victims of gun violence and commemorated the legacy of the assassinated civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
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Comments
I think the point he was trying to make is that the incident could possibly have been contained sooner if a gun carrying citizen had done exactly what you said, reacted.
In a case like this that reaction can save lives, but in your perfect world only the police, military and criminals are allowed to react, unfortunately that didn't, and doesn't always work out so well.
The fact still remains that no matter how strict the laws become CRIMINALS will always subvert the law and be able to purchase, carry and use firearms.
Laws only affect those willing to abide by them. Obviously someone who goes on a crazed shooting spree has chosen not to abide by the law.
Again let me say and pay close attention because this is very important, laws only affect those willing to abide by them.
Think about that next time you're speeding down the road, there is a law that "prevents" you, but you make a conscious choice to ignore it, you see it as harmless.
Unfortunately some people's ethics find murder just as easy to do as speed. This is why I carry. I will not be someone's victim (at least not without attempting to save myself).
Quoting Kate Chase:
I am still surprised at mindless comments like this.
What about law enforcement and security guards? What about the military? What about collectors going to and from gun shows? What about those who compete in shooting leagues? And what about my Constitutional right to own any number of guns I want and to carry openly in Virginia without any permit and to carry concealed with a permit? I have owned guns for years and never intimidated anyone. If I am carrying a gun and I encounter a crime being committed, I certainly expect to intimidate the perpetrator.
You seem comfortable telling all of us what we should do. You should review the second amendment to the US Constitution and then read US history to understand our heritage.
I would prefer a place where there are many more licensed concealed-carry people with guns than criminals with illegally carried guns.
Don't confuse the VCDL with the NRA (which I loathe).