Barbara Finamore

This bill would weaken the language governing applications for licenses to carry a loaded pistol or revolver, resulting in lower and less consistent standards for everyone. At a time when gun deaths and injuries are rising, this is exactly the wrong direction. I speak not only as a concerned resident, but from personal experience. I have been attacked at gunpoint. That experience leaves no doubt about how quickly a situation can turn deadly when a firearm is present and poorly regulated. Permitting laws exist to ensure that individuals carrying loaded firearms in public meet clear, rigorous standards. Weakening those standards increases risk—to the public, to law enforcement, and to permit holders themselves. Given the realities we face today, standards for carrying loaded firearms should be strengthened, not diluted. HR 1365 undermines public safety and public confidence. I urge you to reject this bill.