Meeting with my state representative this week to discuss firearm legislation

Hi,

I'm meeting with my state representative in the next couple of days, to suggest and discuss upcoming gun laws, and some suggestions I have for him, concerning gun rights and concealed carry permitting.

For a bit of background, he has for the past four years introduced bills to allow anyone legally allowed to own a handgun to carry it concealed or open without a permit. :D

While I am wholeheartedly in support of that, I don't see it happening any time soon.

In the meantime, I have some suggestions for him to update the permit process, and locations "off limits" while carrying a firearm.

Mainly, the Department of Public Safety isssues permits, and has by law 120 days to issue permits. I would like to see that reduced to 30 or at the most 60 days.

One also has to go to the nearest Highway Patrol district office to apply, which can be a long drive for some in rural areas. It would be nice to be able to apply at a local drivers license office, and just have HQ process the background check, etc.

The other main issue I have, is that churches (and other places of worship) are off limits while carrying (by law). As we have recently seen, and I don't need to belabor, gun free zones=victim zones.

I plan to at least discuss briefly with him the issue of allowing carry on college campuses, which is forbidden by current law.

Any suggestions for particular talking points, or other issues to bring up with him, are more than welcome.

--Chad

Good for you Chad!! You're doing way more than what most people are willing to do!:D

I've sat with many a Senator and State Representative for meetings, hearings, lunches, votes, etc. All good stuff!

You are lucky in that your Rep. is pro-gun. So, do not in any way be confrontational with him. He's on your side, he's your friend.

Go in as more of a brain storming session with him. Listen to what his thoughts are, make suggestions, and see what his reaction is. Chances are, everything you have on your list, he has heard dozens of times before. Ask him what you and your pro-gun friends can do to help move legislation.

Remember: the legislative process is just that....a process! You will NEVER get everything that you want in one felled swoop. It takes time, a lot of it. People get impatient. Don't demand action now, because it won't happen.

I would suggest getting involved with whatever is your best gun rights organization in your state. Strength in numbers folks!

Everyone should know their Senator and State Representative on a first name basis. It's those relationships you build now that will get things changed in the future.

Maybe you could persuade him to offer a modified permitless carry bill?

Basically allow permitless concealed carry while to and from shooting ranges, hunting, fishing, trapping, camping, hiking, and boating?

Good luck!