Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Forestry
 
Board
Department of Forestry
 
chapter
Virginia State Forest Regulations [4 VAC 10 ‑ 30]
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11/29/08  10:36 am
Commenter: Joe Hardy, Eighty Four Lumber

I have a RIGHT
 

We citizens that lawfully carry firearms - whether concealed or not - should be allowed to continue the practice, as long as we do so lawfully.

We gun owners recognize the inherent difficulty for law enforcement in providing protection for such varied and scattered areas as the State Parks. However, despite what one other person here has said - ie:

 

"The laws are designed to protect the population as a whole and not the need to statisfy a few individual who feel the need to carry a gun everywhere."

"Why would there be a need to carry a handgun in the state forest unless you have ill intentions? ... I feel that I have a RIGHT to enjoy the woods without the fear of walking upon someone carrying a handgun. I have a RIGHT to except my safety be a priority to those in charge of our state and federal land. "



This post reflects an irrational fear as well as a naieve (dare I say woeful) ignorance of case law in the United States, especially since the rate of crime amongst concealed carry permit holders who have generally undergone background checks and training is a fraction of the rate among the general public.

The courts have held that the individual is responsible for their own protection, not the state.

CommentID: 5470