Action | Promulgation of new regulation banning concealed firearms in executive branch agency offices |
Stage | Emergency/NOIRA |
Comment Period | Ended on 1/27/2016 |
Given the recent events of mass shootings both here and the U.S. and abroad, it is absurd to prohibit the lawful carry of a firearm in a State building. History has overwhelmingly demonstrated that those looking to murder and murder in large numbers do so in places where they know they will not encounter the resistance of armed individuals. This crackpot ban on firearms prohibits everyone, other than Law Enforcement Officers performing official duties, from bringing a firearm into a State building. That's right, off-duty police officers are prohibited from carrying under the Governor's ban. This includes some locations that may not immediately come to mind, like a State Operated rest areas. Do you want your loved one to stop at a rest area in the middle of the night, only to see that the Governor has required she disarm before entering the facility.
Meanwhile, the Governor is safe in all his travels thanks to the robust armed security contingent provided by the Virginia State Police. Why does the Governor think he is entitled to the protection a firearm provides, but yet my family is somehow second class and not worthy of that same right to protection?
Maybe if we boil this all down, its nothing more than playing to his base and greasing the skids for his dream of a VP nod in the 2016 Presidential election. Maybe that's it.
In closing I would ask that the comment period for this most important issue be extend by 30 additional days, so all those who wish to, have the opportunity to be heard. This ban is wrong, its dangerous for the employees of these buildings, and it dangerous for the citizens who visit these buildings to conduct business. Remove the ban now!