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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Bud Nornes (R)

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News from the Capitol

Friday, February 28, 2020

Dear Neighbor,

House Democrats voted to approve two anti-gun bills this week despite bipartisan opposition. Both bills have major flaws that infringe upon law-abiding citizens’ Second Amendment rights and short-circuit due process.

One anti-gun bill (HF8) creates new regulations that prevent routine transfers between friends and family. It also says permits to purchase would be limited to one firearm every 30 days, effectively creating a state level gun registry.

The House Democrats conducted an online poll regarding this bill earlier this week and it’s interesting that nearly 90 percent indicated they oppose universal background checks. Around 8,500 votes already had been cast before the House Democrats pulled down the poll some 19 hours before it was scheduled to end. Here is a screen shot:

Poll showing opposition to universal background checks

We can’t make too much of social media polls because of their unscientific nature. I will say, however, the strong opposition matches the email correspondence I have received on these gun bills. So far, the messages sent to me have been in total opposition to house files 8 and 9, not a single email in favor of them.

The other anti-gun bill (HF9) “temporarily” seizes guns from people perceived to be a threat to themselves or others. This bill violates due process and will not stop those who are intent on doing harm to others. We already have laws in place to remove guns from people who may be considered threats to themselves or others. Those going through a mental crisis can be placed on a 72-hour emergency hold for medical evaluation and potential commitment for further treatment. In cases of domestic violence, Minnesota statute already directs officers to make an arrest if they believe that domestic violence has occurred in the preceding 72 hours or if the person poses a threat to the alleged victim.

Fortunately, the Senate Republican majority has indicated it opposes these bills so they should not reach the governor’s desk for enactment this year. That said, we need to continue to be vigilant because the anti-gun groups are likely to keep pushing these bills.

In any case, we would be better off enforcing the laws we already have instead of taking steps to compromise our Second Amendment. That would help us to shift our focus to things such as the best ways of providing tax relief with our state budget surplus. I’ll have more on that in an upcoming email, but that is an issue that needs a lot of work and our full attention.

Sincerely,

Bud