news
5/29 New York Times
Democratic majority lawmakers are considering a bill limiting sales of "high-powered" rifles. The Senate has already approved a bill that would outlaw most rifles. Targeted are rifles with with removable magazines, pistol grips, or autoloaders that could be converted to fire automatically.
This measure, if passed, would effectively ban all autoloading rifles in CT. The very popular M-14 and M-16 variants as well as highly modified target and varmit rifles based upon these designs would instantly be contraband.
Supporters vow the bill's only purpose is to clarify 1993 "assault rifle" legislation banning specific brands and models of semiauto rifles. They claim manufacturers changed brand and model names to circumvent the '93 legislation.
Opponents claim the bill unfairly targets legal gun owners and does nothing to take illegal weapons off the streets. This criticism is particularly apt, as there is little supporting evidence criminals purchase and/or use these high end arms. The M14 and M16 variants are generally avoided by criminals due to their destinctive sillouttes, length and recoil.
Gun owners like Bruce Barna feel they are being unfairly targeted.
"It's the worst kind of feel-good, career-promoting legislation." said Mr Barna. "It serves no legitimate function; it doesn't increase public safety."
It is certain the current atmosphere of compromise and cooperation between gun owners, anti-gunners and the legislature is severely strained. It is opinied pro-gunners, seeing the pending bill as a betrayal, are likely to vehemently oppose all current and future legislation.
JH
Uploaded: 5/31/2001
Uploaded: 5/31/2001