As the New Year rolls in and gets settled down, we as protectors of the 2nd Amendment have more battles to fight for our rights. This week’s updates (as usual) have some very interesting news (some good….some not so good) and we are glad to share them with you guys!! If you have any questions about these updates or any in your respective state please don’t hesitate to shoot us a line!
Nationwide – These statistics are staggering (in a good way!!!)…. Statistics like this makes our hearts feel warm! Recent data shows that even as gun ownership continues to climb, accidental deaths caused by firearms remain at record low numbers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that there were 489 deaths attributed to gun accidents in 2015 (the most recent year for which data is available). That compared to 486 in 2014 and down from 824 in 1999. If we account for consistent population growth, that rate fell nearly 48 percent!! There may be critics that will suggest the drop is attributed to declining gun ownership, but record sales of firearms over recent years quickly debunk that theory! Safety is all of our responsibility and gun owners nationwide are proving that every day!
California – California still suffers tough hits….. The California Senate Public Safety Committee is scheduled to hear two firearm related bills next week. As recently reported by PSA, California SB 459 would mandate the California Department of Justice to perform at least one inspection on firearms dealers every two years. In addition to that, the Bill will allow the Department to charge up to $115 per year to cover the inspection costs along with maintaining the list of approved dealers in the state. On a lighter note, the Committee will also hear SB 710 legislation. Happily, this legislation would allow for the lawful possession of suppressors in the state, as well as legalize their use for hunting. If PSA was headquartered in Cali, we would undoubtedly support this bill as we continue to advocate for the removal of all restrictions on the use of suppressors for recreational use and hunting!!
Delaware – The State of Delaware makes headway….. Good news for Delaware shooters!!! Recently, the Delaware Supreme Court reversed a lower state court and ruled that firearms can be legally brought into state parks and and forest areas. This is wonderful news for responsible gun owners as this ban was in place for decades. PSA has always believed and understood that the constitutional right of responsible, legal citizens to carry arms for self-protection should not end at the boundaries of state-managed land and guess what….the court majority determined the same.
Washington State – Strict rules on the horizon in the Pacific NW….. Unfortunately for shooters in Washington State, gun control is a near certainty. Several Democrat lawmakers are eyeing to expand background checks, require licenses for rifles deemed “assault rifles,” and mandate the use of gun locks and safes for firearms not in use. The “assault weapons” license would cost owners $50 and failure to comply would incur felony offense charges to be brought. Other anti-gun measures are being considered in Washington State….. as usual, PSA will do our best to keep our readers in Washington updated.
*** 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!!!