2A Newsletter: Week of June 9th

New York: It’s a felony to print guns or share files

Photo Source: Guy J. Sagi via Shutterstock

The State of New York is targeting 3D-printed firearms with a proposed bill that would make it a felony to print guns or share related computer-aided design (CAD) files. The New York State Senate who sponsored the bill has a vast history of anti-2A proposed legislation but getting into anti-First Amendment activities is a first.

Assembly Bill A7489 is a fear tactic employed by anti-gun politicians, who exaggerate the problem of 3D-printed firearms. NYPD has stated that crimes where ghost guns have been recovered "soared" up to 75%. Yet, since 2021 only 20 total "ghost guns" have been taken into custody from crime scenes. By using percentages rather than actual numbers, politicians can make the issue appear larger than it really is.

Cody Wilson, founder of Defense Distributed and one of the people behind Ghost Gunner, which recently launched code for users to create Glock-style pistols using their Ghost Gunner 3S device has already voiced his opposition and readiness to go to court over this law. Wilson rightfully claims that the new law violates the Communications Decency Act of 1996 (which is conveniently being reviewed by the DOJ) and will be used to target any and all online sites containing 2A related CAD models.

Overall, the proposed bill in New York seems to be a misguided solution that disregards the First Amendment and infringes on gun rights. Instead of addressing the root causes of violence, the bill focuses on fear tactics and attempts to control an ever-evolving technology as well as your rights.

Washington: Assault Weapons Ban is taking toll on Gun Stores

Photo Source: Wkanadpon via Shutterstock

The recent assault weapons ban in Washington state is causing significant problems for local gun stores and pawn shops. Substitute House Bill 1240, which was signed into law on April 25, 2022, has left many businesses with unsold inventory, creating financial losses and confusion. Pawn shops, in particular, are struggling as they hold firearms that can no longer be returned to their owners or sold.

State Senator Phil Fortunato has attempted to seek clarification from the Democratic Attorney General regarding the ban's impact on pawnbrokers and individuals who began the process of purchasing a semi-automatic rifle before the law came into effect. However, Fortunato's efforts have been met with silence, leaving many businesses and individuals in a frustrating state of limbo.

Despite claims from gun control advocates that the new law will save lives, there is no evidence to support this. In fact, crime rates involving firearms have increased since the introduction of previous gun control initiatives in Washington such as the "high-capacity" mag ban last year and the "gun violence tax" from 2015. The assault weapons ban has only added to the burden on law-abiding citizens while doing little to address those who actually commit legitimate crimes.

As legal challenges to the ban continue, including lawsuits from the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF), National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), and the National Rifle Association (NRA), the future of Washington's assault weapons ban remains uncertain. Support these groups and make your voice heard so issues like this do not impact any more Americans.

Chicago: Peacekeeper Program Fails to Keep the Peace

Photo Source: Sirtravelalot via Shutterstock

Chicago, IL has grappled with violent crime for many years. But since COVID-19, there has been a surge of violent crime which prompted local government, in all their wisdom, to turn to unconventional initiatives like the "peacekeeper" program — which involves paying individuals with criminal pasts to help prevent violence in their neighborhoods. However, the recent Memorial Day weekend saw a sharp increase in shootings and fatalities, making it the most violent Memorial Day weekend in seven years.

Despite good intentions, the peacekeeper program has raised serious concerns over its vetting process, as one peacekeeper was recently arrested for aggravated battery, robbery, and vehicular invasion while wearing the peacekeeper hi-vis vest. Chicago's new mayor has invested $2.5 million in various organizations to promote local activities aimed at curbing crime. As we can all see that has been an absolute waste as crime continues to rise in the Windy City.

Ultimately, Chicago may be better served by using proven techniques for reducing violent crime. With the new administration in the White House more focused on playing politics than fighting true issues across the nation. It remains to be seen whether unconventional programs like the "peacekeeper" initiative will have any significant impact on the city. We can only hope that other cities and states don't get the same idea.

In Other 2A news

• Have you heard of the evil "Assault Bullet"? (Not to be confused with this Assault Bullet)
• Huzzah! California faced to pay gun groups' legal fees after court challenges
• CA's Gov. Gavin Newsom is proposing a 28th Amendment to restrict gun rights
• Federal Judge in VA strikes down federal law banning FFL handgun sales to young adults
• Another High Profile Democrat whose gun crimes are being ignored

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