GOLD’N MEMBERS,
I would like to update you on the status of Gun Owners Legal Defense Network. First, Robert Surgenor, the original president, unfortunately has passed away. As Vice-President, I have assumed the position of President. Richard Nicola is now the Vice President. Since then, and especially recently, we have been updating our system. I would like to assure our members that the company is growing and is strong. Every so often, with the changing times, we will try to keep our members up to date on the changes, especially wen it comes to general CCW laws.
In would like to touch on the Constitutional Carry Law. I would like to make it clear that this company strongly supports the Constitutional Carry Law, that is, we believe that everyone has the right to bear arms. The Constitutional Carry Law, in general, allows a resident of that state to carry a concealed firearm without training and without a permit. Again, you must be a resident of the state that has passed the Constitutional Carry Law. However, there are concerns. There are a lot of issues that come with this possible change.
First, there is the issue of how to deal with Law Enforcement. If a person, presently with a CCW permit, is involved with a Law Enforcement Officer, they must immediately announce that they are a CCW permit holder and that they are armed. This procedure is taught in the classes that are presently required to take to obtain a CCW permit. This is for the safety of both the citizen and the Law Enforcement Officer as well. The person must also keep their hands in plain view away from the firearm. With the Constitutional Carry Law, this announcement may not be required. Also, part of obtaining a permit, there is a requirement that the civilian must show competence in handling the firearms by being proficient on the gun range. This is also not included in the Constitutional Carry Law. This is a concern to me being both a retired law enforcement officer and an NRA Instructor.
Another issue with the Constitutional Carry Law is that you lose your freedom for interstate travel. You will still need a CCW permit to travel through other states that recognize your state’s CCW permit. Without that permit, you will not be allowed to travel outside of your state of residence with a loaded handgun. You will have to unload and secure the weapon, not easily accessible to the occupants.
Again, what I mentioned above are general concerns with the Constitutional Carry Law. Please check with your local police or Sheriff’s office for further information.
David Fadil
President
Gun Owners Legal Defense Network