As always, we try to keep you guys updated on some of the most interesting news of firearms legislation from around the nation that we come across. As responsible armed citizens, it is imperative that we stay abreast of changes, additions, and alterations to firearms laws.
Chicago, IL – Don’t lie for the other guy…… Although Chicago has seen a wave of violence in recent months, responsible armed citizens aren’t resting. The latest “Don’t Lie for the Other Guy” public awareness campaign is alive and well in the Chicago area. In conjunction with local law enforcement, the word is getting out about the stiff penalties that are now in place for individuals convicted of “straw purchasing” firearms. Loosely defined, a straw purchaser of a firearm lies about the identity of the ultimate possessor of the gun and can be charged with making false statements on a federal Firearms Transaction Record. This month-long campaign in Chicago was launched citywide with several programs at local retailers and hosted several representatives from law enforcement agencies (both federal and local). Eradicating straw purchases is a great step to being able to remove firearms from the wrong hands, so PSA salutes the city of Chicago!!!
California – Small shops in Cali face tough times…. State of California Gov. Jerry Brown has a huge decision to make on two bills that have the unfortunate potential to put many firearms retailers out of business. SB 464 and AB 1525 are on the agenda for ratification in California and both have the potential for far reaching consequences. SB 464 would create government mandated standards for how firearms retailers must secure their facility and store their firearms when they are closed for business. The result is to decrease the opportunity for unscrupulous persons to steal firearms. The downfall to SB 464 is that it in effect burdens small businesses with a “one-size-fits-all” mandate and treats them like they are the problem. In reality, they are the target of such crimes. In addition, AB 1525 would add to already lengthy packaging and literature warning requirements, increasing production and distribution costs for manufacturers and operational costs for retailers. Smaller retailers or manufacturers that serve a niche market face severe chances of being negatively affected. Responsible armed citizens in the state of California should contact their governor and strongly urge him to VETO this bill.
Atlanta, GA – Let the money roll in GA…… The National Sports Shooting Foundation has been on the ground in Atlanta, Georgia making major headway for responsible armed citizens. For the past two legislative sessions the NSSF has been working on the Firearms Industry Nondiscrimination Act (FIND Act) with the intention of helping to stop blatant discrimination from financial service providers against those in the firearms industry. These initiatives proved ultimately successful in 2017 when House bill 292 was signed into law. The Georgia FIND Act compliance forms have been placed online for user download. As per regulations, this form should be completed by any FFL wishing to file a formal complaint if their business has been refused financial services solely because they are involved in the lawful commerce of firearms or ammunition. For small firearms businesses in Georgia like PSA, this is a big step towards being funded!!
*** If you are unfamiliar with firearms and/or their accessories, and want to learn more, PSA strongly suggests that you find, enroll, and attend a comprehensive and reputable firearms safety course. Firearms safety is all of OUR responsibility.
We want to thank you for taking out the time to stop by our lane at the shooting range!! We hope that you enjoyed your stay and hope that you stop back by early and often to catch up on all PSA updates! We truly hope that we were able to hit the target, and if you ever have any questions please don’t hesitate to shoot them our way!! We look forward to shooting the breeze with you soon again!!
And as always….remember to watch your six and stay low!!!