and this is a good debate on many levels
You are so right...this does have many levels.
That's one reason that while I have made a decision as to which side of the issue I'm on, I'm still uncomfortable with it.
Understand that I am unequivocally opposed to ANY restrictions on firearms or infringement of the 2A. I realize that I have to temper my goals somewhat in order to not scare off the fence-sitters. So consider what I say in light of the fact that I became a Lifemember of GOA even though their goals do not seem as all-encompassing as mine.
The old saw about your rights stopping at the end of your nose comes to mind.
I have friends who, while not actively anti, are deathly afraid of guns and everything they represent in their media-influenced minds. I try to gradually influence them with facts, but in the mean time I would never carry in their homes, out of respect for their wishes and, more to the point, their property rights.
I see the issue this bill raised in the same way...that is, I view it as a matter of property rights as opposed to firearms rights.
Now the sticky bit...individual privacy/property rights vs. the rights of a landowner/employer.
Personally, I believe that nobody has the right to search my vehicle or my person.
In a situation where I was on private land, as in a commercial or employer's parking lot, I would refuse a search and not go there, whatever the consequences.
While some people may not have that option due to the hardships of losing their job, it is still a matter of their choice. Each of us has to make our own priorities.
To demand that the government step in and solve these kinds of problems is how we ended up so buried under regulations today.
My work often takes me to military bases and active prisons, where I am forced to allow my vehicle to be searched.
I don't agree with that policy, but I understand the security considerations so I go along with it.
I CHOOSE to abide by that policy and act accordingly because it is in my best interests to do so...for now at least.
As far as posted businesses go, every one that I've ever come across knows exactly how I feel about it and why I don't shop there. They all get a letter, both at the individual store and at corporate headquarters, that details calmly and clearly why they are being boycotted.
I don't think a Texas-type sign law could pass in Florida, especially in the current atmosphere.
If it did come about I'd fight it, of course, but it really wouldn't affect my shopping habits any.
Finally, you are also 100% right that this is a good debate, and that is so important.
My thinking on the original issue solidified during the course of this thread.
We all need to do much more of this, and THR is becoming one of the best places to do it.
All of us involved or concerned over RKBA and 2A issues have differing ideas and viewpoints.
We need to discuss, plan and come to as much agreement as possible so we can present a united front in the face of Brady-type campaigns and reluctant politicians.
Plus, I just plain enjoy a good debate!!
I'll get off the soapbox now.