A bill (Texas SB 354 sponsored by republican Senator Jeff Wentworth) allowing Texas licensed concealed handgun holders (anyone over 21 with a permit to carry a concealed handgun) to carry their weapons into university buildings, including dormitories is currently before the state legislature. It's already legal for permit holders to bring a gun onto campus grounds. More than half of the members of the Texas House of Representatives have co-authored the bill sponsored by Dallas republican Joe Driver. Texas is one of nine states currently considering campus carry; similar bills are advancing in Arizona, Tennessee, Michigan, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Florida, Nebraska and Mississippi.
This is a topic that creates a wealth of emotional opinions on both sides of the issue. News coverage of this normally involves an interview with college students, university leaders and gun owner proponents expressing their opinions. Most of these interviews spend very little time on the facts surrounding concealed carry laws currently in place in various states and crime statistics on college campuses.
Current Concealed Carry Laws in the U.S.
49 states have passed laws allowing citizens to carry certain concealed firearms in public, either without a permit or after obtaining a permit from state or local law enforcement. Thirteen states use a single permit to regulate the practices of both concealed and open carry of a handgun. Alaska, Vermont, Arizona, and Wyoming (as of July 1st, 2011) allow residents to carry a concealed firearm without a permit. There is no federal law addressing this issue, so each state has the ability to construct its own laws concerning concealed weapons carry.
Handgun Laws on Campus
15 "Right-to-Carry" states leave the decision of concealed carry on college campuses to each individual college or university. Utah is currently the only state that allows concealed handguns on all of its public colleges and universities. This law was passed during the fall semester of 2006. Colorado State University campus in Ft. Collins and in Pueblo has allowed licensed carry since 2003. In 2010 fourteen Colorado community colleges began allowing licensed concealed carry on campus. Currently this brings the total to 26 colleges - a combined 71 campuses- that allow carrying of concealed handguns at the time of this writing.
The ambiguity concerning right to carry on a college campus is illustrated by Virginia's law which allows licensed individuals to have a concealed weapon on their person, but revokes this right for students and faculty. As stated by the Virginia Attorney General in opinion No. 05-078, the conclusion which was: "... it is my opinion that the governing boards of Virginia's public colleges and universities may not impose a general prohibition on the carrying of concealed weapons by permitted individuals. Pursuant to specific grants of statutory authority, however, it is my opinion that colleges and universities may regulate the conduct of students and employees to prohibit them from carrying concealed weapons on campus. "
Gun Violence on Concealed Carry Campuses
There have been no reported incidences of gun violence, including suicides, accidental death or discharge or threats involving an individual with a license to carry on any of these particular campuses. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, concealed handgun license holders are significantly less likely to commit violent crime than the general public. These are the two statistics available from TDPS on the 1 in 55 Texans with carry licenses vs. those without:
5 1/2 less likely to commit manslaughter
Four times less likely to commit murder.
Texas concealed carry licensing process is among the most rigorous in the nation. The current laws on carrying a weapon are also very explicit.
It is unlawful for a handgun license holder to carry a handgun on the premises of:
A government court.
A business that derives 51 percent or more of its income from the sale of alcohol for on-premises consumption.
A school or educational institution, high school, collegiate, or professional sporting event or interscholastic event that is taking place.
A hospital or nursing home.
An amusement park.
A place of religious worship.
A polling place on the day of an election.
A meeting of a governing body.
A race track.
A secured area of an airport.
A correctional facility.
A correctional facility or within 1000 feet of such, on the day of an execution.
The property of another after receiving notice that concealed handguns are forbidden on that property.
It is unlawful to possess a firearm in a penal institution.
It is unlawful for a handgun license holder to carry a handgun while intoxicated.
It is unlawful for a handgun license holder to carry a handgun and intentionally fail to conceal the handgun.
Sources:Tex. Penal Code § 46.01 et seq. and Tex. Gov't. Code § 411.171 et seq.
Even though, based on several recent polls, the legislation to remove restrictions on college campuses is opposed by the majority of Texas citizens, university administrators and college students, SB 354 looks like it has a very good chance of passing and statistics and facts will continue to be hard to come by in the debate.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Carrying a Concealed Weapon
For many people, carrying a concealed weapon is one of their most important rights. Self-defense is crucial in many situations and being able to do so legally and effectively is very important. But there is some risk involved in carrying a weapon, no matter the legality of it. Being properly licensed and knowing the regulations that are associated with that license is an important responsibility of every person who carries a concealed weapon.
It is also crucial to know venues and locations in which it is always illegal to be carrying a gun. Each state has specific regulations concerning these locations, but all of them are intended to protect the best interests of every person. Two venues that guns are generally excluded from include most school campuses and large sporting events. In both of these situations, the misfire of a weapon or threatening brandishing of a weapon could cause a great deal of panic. To deal with this threat, carrying a handgun is completely illegal whether a person is properly licensed or not.
Many federal or governmental buildings also have restrictions concerning carrying weapons. Because of the sensitive nature of the operations of some of these buildings, safety is a primary concern. The safety of the people and information in these buildings is a high priority and generally important for public safety. These restrictions often include police stations and other public service stations as well. Carrying a gun on these premises can result in serious charges and consequences.
It is important for every person who carries a concealed weapon to be aware of the regulations of their state.
It is also crucial to know venues and locations in which it is always illegal to be carrying a gun. Each state has specific regulations concerning these locations, but all of them are intended to protect the best interests of every person. Two venues that guns are generally excluded from include most school campuses and large sporting events. In both of these situations, the misfire of a weapon or threatening brandishing of a weapon could cause a great deal of panic. To deal with this threat, carrying a handgun is completely illegal whether a person is properly licensed or not.
Many federal or governmental buildings also have restrictions concerning carrying weapons. Because of the sensitive nature of the operations of some of these buildings, safety is a primary concern. The safety of the people and information in these buildings is a high priority and generally important for public safety. These restrictions often include police stations and other public service stations as well. Carrying a gun on these premises can result in serious charges and consequences.
It is important for every person who carries a concealed weapon to be aware of the regulations of their state.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Handgun Laws
Obtaining a handgun in the State of California is a thorough process that may require weeks or even months to successfully and legally complete. When an individual in California decides to purchase a handgun, he or she should go through the proper channels.
The first step in getting a handgun is obtaining a handgun safety certificate. Some individuals, such as police officers, may be exempt from this stage. Other individuals, though, may need to complete a course and several training session to obtain the certificate.
After completing this requirement, individuals must seek out a licensed California firearms dealer to purchase their weapon of choice. The arms dealer will collect information about the individual, which he or she will use to have a background check performed on the potential buyer.
The background check usually takes 10 days. During these 10 days, the dealer will usually require a monetary deposit from the buyer and will have possession of the handgun until the 10 days period passes. An individual who is found to have a criminal background will not be able to receive the gun at the end of the 10 days.
If the individual does pass the background check, the dealer will deliver the handgun to that individual after the tenth day.
After an individual receives his or her handgun, he or she must obtained a concealed weapons permit to legally carry the gun in public places. The permit does not allow individuals to carry their weapons on private properties, as some private establishments may not allow individuals to bring their concealed weapons on the premises.
Individuals who move to California from other states must register their handguns with their law enforcement agencies within a 60-day period. After this time frame has passed, the individual may face legal ramifications if caught with the weapon.
Unfortunately, sometimes individuals are charged with illegal handgun possession even if they have obtained their weapons through completely legal means.
The first step in getting a handgun is obtaining a handgun safety certificate. Some individuals, such as police officers, may be exempt from this stage. Other individuals, though, may need to complete a course and several training session to obtain the certificate.
After completing this requirement, individuals must seek out a licensed California firearms dealer to purchase their weapon of choice. The arms dealer will collect information about the individual, which he or she will use to have a background check performed on the potential buyer.
The background check usually takes 10 days. During these 10 days, the dealer will usually require a monetary deposit from the buyer and will have possession of the handgun until the 10 days period passes. An individual who is found to have a criminal background will not be able to receive the gun at the end of the 10 days.
If the individual does pass the background check, the dealer will deliver the handgun to that individual after the tenth day.
After an individual receives his or her handgun, he or she must obtained a concealed weapons permit to legally carry the gun in public places. The permit does not allow individuals to carry their weapons on private properties, as some private establishments may not allow individuals to bring their concealed weapons on the premises.
Individuals who move to California from other states must register their handguns with their law enforcement agencies within a 60-day period. After this time frame has passed, the individual may face legal ramifications if caught with the weapon.
Unfortunately, sometimes individuals are charged with illegal handgun possession even if they have obtained their weapons through completely legal means.
Safes for Security and Protection
Following a tall spike in 2008, gun sales rose steadily for almost two years. Economic hardships across the board caused declines in purchases of cars, furniture, clothes, and other items, but gun sales saw the opposite reaction. In 2008, they rose 8 to 10 percent, as people began to worry about possible new gun control laws and other changes. In a tough economy, the risks of crime and civil disorder rise, which may also have been a factor in the increasing interest in firearms. People may have felt the need to buy weapons in order to ensure personal safety during times of uncertainty. Despite any action on the part of the Obama administration regarding the 2nd Amendment or gun control, the sales continued to grow.
This trend is not new; in 1994, there was another peak in gun purchases when President Clinton pushed for a ban on military-style rifles. After the tragedy at Virginia Tech, worries about restrictions on handguns led to a run on small guns and concealed gun permits; some states experienced up to a 60 percent increase. However, it's not just the idea of the 2nd Amendment or self-defense that had people stocking up; it's the fact that if a new firearms ban were put in place, their collection would be an investment with rapidly increasing value. During the ban between 1994 and 2004, firearms already in circulation could be resold, so people in possession of the desired items were able to get almost any price. These and other causes meant that many popular gun models were back-ordered for months, even up to a year. Manufacturers plants were operating round the clock, and values have already begun to soar.
For some, investing in ammunition was believed to promise better returns than money markets and CDs, and as much as doubling their investment in a year is hoped for. As opposed to gold and silver, whose value fluctuates, gun enthusiasts promised that firearms will only increase in value.
Today, as the economy starts to look up, the soaring gun sales have slowed down a bit, but are still almost 25 percent higher than they were in 2007 and early 2008. The new purchases are not just being hidden away, either; interest in target shooting and hunting is growing, as are petitions and movements concerning the legality of openly carrying.
If you've been a part of this nation-wide movement, chances are you're in need of some secure storage for your purchases. Guns do not belong in closets or on shelves, but in designated gun safes. Not only do gun safes ensure the safety of your firearms from fire, water, or would-be thieves, but they also protect unwitting family members or house guests from stumbling into a dangerous situation while looking for an extra towel, or perhaps snooping around for Christmas gifts. Your investment in firearms requires the sufficient protection and security found only in gun safes.
There is an incredibly wide range of styles and sizes to choose from, ensuring your complete satisfaction and a perfect fit for you and your home, or even vehicle. Truck vaults are available for gun storage in your SUV, and console vaults that can fit in even more vehicle models. Floor safes provide exceptional protection and security for your valuables while not taking up any room in your house, other than beneath it and the area needed for the top of the vault, which can be covered with a rug or furniture for the ultimate in concealment. Bed safes ensure that no one will be disturbing your safe during the night without you knowing about it, since it's concealed underneath the box springs of your bed.
Everyone knows the main brands of gun safes - Winchester, Browning, etc- and these have definitely earned their good reputations, but there are also other reliable manufacturers out there. One lesser-known but no less deserving of mention is Rhino Safe. Rhino Safes use a revolutionary new lock system with innovative security enhancements. They're also available with a variety of wall thicknesses to protect against grinding and cutting attacks. They have heavy-bodied construction, great fire ratings, and surprisingly low prices. They're definitely worth some time spent exploring the many options offered.
From small handgun safes to truck vaults to large safes that can hold dozens of guns, there is a safe that fits your specifications and will protect you, your family and your valuables.
Ruger SR1911 Now Available
The Ruger SR1911 is now available. The only problem is that it is selling so fast that gun shops can't seem to keep them in stock. Why you say? Well, look at the information below and you'll understand why this is one of the very best 45's on the market today.ALL THIS FOR UNDER $700.00! You just can't beat a price like that.
HERE'S A VIDEO REVIEW of this great weapon. It's 22 minutes long but worth watching. This guy really knows what he is doing.
Concealed Firearm Laws in Wisconsin
Just about every state in the United States allows its citizens to carry a concealed firearm if he or she has a permit to do so. Wisconsin is one of the exceptions. Residents of Wisconsin cannot apply for or receive concealed firearm permits because they do not exist.
Though citizens are not allowed to conceal their guns, they still may own them. In that regard, Wisconsin has lax rules. Individuals do not need a license or permit to purchase a gun in Wisconsin, regardless of whether the gun is a shotgun, rifle, or even a handgun.
In addition to Wisconsin citizens being unable to acquire concealed handgun permits, the state does not recognize out of states permits. This means that an individual from another state cannot conceal his or her firearm in public if he or she visits Wisconsin.
Though these permits are valid in other states, they are not valid in Wisconsin. As such, individuals who are caught concealing firearms may be charged with breaking Wisconsin's concealed handgun laws and may have to face trial.
The punishment for concealed guns usually depends on how many times an individual is caught possessing a concealed firearm. For first time offenders, it is a misdemeanor offense that is punishable by a maximum of 9 months in prison and no more than a $10,000 fine.
Multiple offenders may face heavier punishments, including felony charges. Individuals who are charged with breaking this law, regardless of how many times they have done so, may face prison time, so they should hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to handle their cases.
UPDATE: Michigan CCW holders have now been granted permission to carry concealed in Wisconsin. We'll have an updated article on this new legislation in the near future. Be sure to read it and share it with others. It is very important information.
Though citizens are not allowed to conceal their guns, they still may own them. In that regard, Wisconsin has lax rules. Individuals do not need a license or permit to purchase a gun in Wisconsin, regardless of whether the gun is a shotgun, rifle, or even a handgun.
In addition to Wisconsin citizens being unable to acquire concealed handgun permits, the state does not recognize out of states permits. This means that an individual from another state cannot conceal his or her firearm in public if he or she visits Wisconsin.
Though these permits are valid in other states, they are not valid in Wisconsin. As such, individuals who are caught concealing firearms may be charged with breaking Wisconsin's concealed handgun laws and may have to face trial.
The punishment for concealed guns usually depends on how many times an individual is caught possessing a concealed firearm. For first time offenders, it is a misdemeanor offense that is punishable by a maximum of 9 months in prison and no more than a $10,000 fine.
Multiple offenders may face heavier punishments, including felony charges. Individuals who are charged with breaking this law, regardless of how many times they have done so, may face prison time, so they should hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to handle their cases.
UPDATE: Michigan CCW holders have now been granted permission to carry concealed in Wisconsin. We'll have an updated article on this new legislation in the near future. Be sure to read it and share it with others. It is very important information.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)