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Conference foundr::firearms

Title:God made man, but Sam Colt made men equal
Notice:Welcome to the firearms conference!
Moderator:PEAKS::OAKEYIN
Created:Tue Mar 04 1986
Last Modified:Fri Jun 06 1997
Last Successful Update:Fri Jun 06 1997
Number of topics:6616
Total number of notes:49869

6300.0. "NRA Alert/info!" by SUBPAC::SADIN (One if by LAN, two if by C) Mon Mar 13 1995 09:13

T.RTitleUserPersonal
Name		DateLines
6300.1SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Mar 13 1995 09:1370
6300.2SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Mar 13 1995 09:1361
6300.3SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Mar 13 1995 09:1481
6300.4SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Mar 13 1995 09:1488
6300.5SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Mar 13 1995 09:1450
6300.6SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Mar 14 1995 09:1234
6300.7SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Mar 14 1995 09:1231
6300.8SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Mar 14 1995 09:1232
6300.9SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Mar 14 1995 10:3740
6300.10SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Mar 14 1995 12:0838
6300.11SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Mar 14 1995 12:21107
6300.12SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Mar 14 1995 14:2698
6300.13SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Mar 14 1995 16:42133
6300.14SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Mar 14 1995 18:00132
6300.15SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Mar 15 1995 09:0234
6300.16SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Mar 15 1995 09:0233
6300.17SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Mar 15 1995 09:0236
6300.18SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Mar 15 1995 09:0256
6300.19SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 17 1995 07:4730
6300.20SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 17 1995 07:4829
6300.21SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 17 1995 07:4832
6300.22SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 17 1995 07:4837
6300.23SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 17 1995 07:4835
6300.24SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 17 1995 07:4848
6300.25SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 17 1995 07:48319
6300.26SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 17 1995 07:4830
6300.27SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 17 1995 07:4931
6300.28SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 17 1995 09:5934
6300.29SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 17 1995 12:0134
6300.30SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 17 1995 13:15135
6300.31SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 17 1995 14:4053
6300.32SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 17 1995 17:1245
6300.33SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSat Mar 18 1995 08:3942
6300.34SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Mar 20 1995 09:1884
6300.35SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Mar 20 1995 09:1971
6300.36SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Mar 20 1995 09:20117
6300.37SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Mar 20 1995 10:5685
6300.38SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Mar 20 1995 16:55158
6300.39SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Mar 20 1995 16:55215
6300.40SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Mar 21 1995 12:0140
6300.41SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Mar 21 1995 12:0132
6300.42SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Mar 21 1995 14:0070
6300.43SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Mar 21 1995 17:21114
6300.44SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Mar 23 1995 12:1730
6300.45SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Mar 23 1995 12:1733
6300.46SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Mar 23 1995 12:1745
6300.47SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Mar 23 1995 14:4232
6300.48SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 24 1995 09:12338
6300.49SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 24 1995 09:12153
6300.50SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 24 1995 09:1231
6300.51SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 24 1995 09:1232
6300.52SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 24 1995 12:3237
6300.53BATF abuse!SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Mar 24 1995 15:00104
6300.54SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSat Mar 25 1995 08:3330
6300.55SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSat Mar 25 1995 08:33136
6300.56SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Mar 27 1995 09:5864
6300.57SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Mar 27 1995 20:3384
6300.58SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Mar 27 1995 20:3369
6300.59SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Mar 29 1995 10:3530
6300.60SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Mar 29 1995 10:3528
6300.61SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Mar 29 1995 10:3528
6300.62SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Mar 29 1995 10:3539
6300.63SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Mar 29 1995 10:3542
6300.64SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Mar 29 1995 10:36121
6300.65SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Mar 29 1995 12:1854
6300.66SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Mar 29 1995 15:5885
6300.67SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Mar 30 1995 10:0838
6300.68SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Mar 30 1995 10:0938
6300.69SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Mar 30 1995 10:0951
6300.70SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Mar 30 1995 10:0947
6300.71SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Mar 30 1995 12:5556
6300.72GRANPA::MWANNEMACHERNRA member in good standingThu Mar 30 1995 14:037
6300.73SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Mar 30 1995 14:435
6300.74encourage C-SPAN to cover 2nd amendment hearings!SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Mar 30 1995 14:4725
6300.75SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Mar 30 1995 18:55349
6300.76SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSat Apr 01 1995 09:5933
6300.77SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSat Apr 01 1995 09:5931
6300.78SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSat Apr 01 1995 09:5932
6300.79SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSat Apr 01 1995 09:5943
6300.80SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSat Apr 01 1995 09:5991
6300.81excellent letter from Tanya!!SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSat Apr 01 1995 13:21141
6300.82<sorry these are late, I've been ill for a few days.SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Apr 04 1995 00:03137
6300.83SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Apr 04 1995 00:0342
6300.84SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Apr 04 1995 00:0450
6300.85SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Apr 04 1995 00:0435
6300.86SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Apr 04 1995 00:0539
6300.87SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Apr 04 1995 00:0552
6300.88SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Apr 04 1995 00:0550
6300.89SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 06 1995 11:2233
6300.90SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 06 1995 11:2331
6300.91SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 06 1995 11:2333
6300.92SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 06 1995 11:2335
6300.93SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Apr 07 1995 11:1041
6300.94SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Apr 07 1995 11:1078
6300.95SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Apr 07 1995 11:1054
6300.96SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Apr 07 1995 11:1168
6300.97SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSun Apr 09 1995 16:0629
6300.98SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSun Apr 09 1995 16:0730
6300.99SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSun Apr 09 1995 16:0733
6300.100SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSun Apr 09 1995 16:0738
6300.101SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSun Apr 09 1995 16:08131
6300.102SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSun Apr 09 1995 16:08150
6300.103SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSun Apr 09 1995 16:08353
6300.104SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Apr 11 1995 12:46226
6300.105SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Apr 12 1995 11:5238
6300.106SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Apr 12 1995 11:5245
6300.107SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Apr 12 1995 13:2846
6300.108The rantings of the enemy....SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Apr 12 1995 15:54219
6300.109SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Apr 12 1995 15:5845
6300.110SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed Apr 12 1995 17:5746
6300.111SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 13 1995 11:20473
6300.112SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 13 1995 11:2048
6300.113SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 13 1995 11:2187
6300.114SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 13 1995 11:2131
6300.115SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 13 1995 13:2631
6300.116SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 13 1995 14:5738
6300.117SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 13 1995 18:2146
6300.118SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 13 1995 20:33113
6300.119SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Apr 14 1995 11:07333
6300.120attention Mass residents!!!!SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Apr 14 1995 11:0761
6300.121SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Apr 14 1995 11:0762
6300.122SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Apr 14 1995 11:0759
6300.123SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Apr 18 1995 14:3636
6300.124SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Apr 18 1995 14:3637
6300.125SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Apr 18 1995 14:3640
6300.126SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Apr 18 1995 14:3679
6300.127SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Apr 18 1995 14:36111
6300.128SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue Apr 18 1995 14:36142
6300.129SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 20 1995 20:1633
6300.130SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 20 1995 20:1754
6300.131SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 20 1995 20:1744
6300.132SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 20 1995 20:1726
6300.133SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 20 1995 20:1738
6300.134SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 20 1995 20:1738
6300.135SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 20 1995 20:1738
6300.136SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Apr 21 1995 16:3535
6300.137SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Apr 21 1995 19:2138
6300.138SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSat Apr 22 1995 10:4551
6300.139SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSat Apr 22 1995 10:4650
6300.140SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSat Apr 22 1995 10:4613
6300.141SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSat Apr 22 1995 10:4622
6300.142SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CSat Apr 22 1995 10:4672
6300.143SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Apr 24 1995 11:22107
6300.144SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Apr 24 1995 11:22101
6300.145SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Apr 24 1995 11:2316
6300.146SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Apr 24 1995 11:23120
6300.147SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Apr 24 1995 11:23167
6300.148SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon Apr 24 1995 11:24346
6300.149SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu Apr 27 1995 11:0736
6300.150SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Apr 28 1995 10:5011
6300.151SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Apr 28 1995 10:5010
6300.152SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Apr 28 1995 11:4111
6300.153SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Apr 28 1995 14:2115
6300.154SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri Apr 28 1995 17:3250
6300.155SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue May 02 1995 11:0730
6300.156SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue May 02 1995 11:07123
6300.157SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed May 03 1995 09:5811
6300.158SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed May 03 1995 09:5920
6300.159SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed May 03 1995 09:5924
6300.160SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri May 05 1995 11:1613
6300.161SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri May 05 1995 11:1714
6300.162SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri May 05 1995 11:17232
6300.163SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri May 05 1995 11:18249
6300.164SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri May 05 1995 11:20107
6300.165SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri May 05 1995 11:2012
6300.166SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri May 05 1995 14:5819
6300.167SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CFri May 05 1995 16:2420
6300.168Floridians, call and thank your senator and rep!SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon May 08 1995 17:4649
6300.169SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue May 09 1995 16:5762
6300.170SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue May 09 1995 16:5711
6300.171SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue May 09 1995 16:5713
6300.172SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue May 09 1995 16:5837
6300.173SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue May 09 1995 20:03131
6300.174SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue May 09 1995 20:03105
6300.175SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue May 09 1995 20:0452
6300.176SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed May 10 1995 11:0631
6300.177SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu May 11 1995 11:118
6300.178SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu May 11 1995 11:1262
6300.179SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon May 15 1995 11:30244
6300.180letter to president BushSUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon May 15 1995 11:31353
6300.181SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon May 15 1995 11:3210
6300.182SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon May 15 1995 11:3210
6300.183SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon May 15 1995 11:3272
6300.184SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon May 15 1995 11:33372
6300.185SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon May 15 1995 11:3334
6300.186I didn't receive this until today...sorry.SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon May 15 1995 11:3493
6300.187SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon May 15 1995 11:34120
6300.188SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CMon May 15 1995 11:34198
6300.189SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue May 16 1995 11:0010
6300.190SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue May 16 1995 11:0012
6300.191SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue May 16 1995 11:0117
6300.192SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue May 16 1995 11:2054
6300.193SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CTue May 16 1995 14:37105
6300.194SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CWed May 17 1995 15:4210
6300.195BUSH .DNE. NRA?POLAR::ROBINSONPLiv'er on the edgeWed May 17 1995 18:546
6300.196ODIXIE::CIAROCHIOne Less DogWed May 17 1995 19:013
6300.197KOALA::DEFELICEWed May 17 1995 19:033
6300.198No big deal.RUSURE::ZAHAREEMichael W. Zaharee, N1SJPWed May 17 1995 20:203
6300.199KOALA::DEFELICEWed May 17 1995 20:312
6300.200SUBPAC::SADINOne if by LAN, two if by CThu May 18 1995 11:23105
6300.201SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon May 22 1995 11:069
6300.202SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon May 22 1995 11:0611
6300.203SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon May 22 1995 11:0710
6300.204SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon May 22 1995 11:0715
6300.205SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon May 22 1995 11:0722
6300.206SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon May 22 1995 11:0735
6300.207SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon May 22 1995 11:0718
6300.208SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon May 22 1995 11:0824
6300.209SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon May 22 1995 11:08117
6300.210SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon May 22 1995 11:0832
6300.211SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon May 22 1995 11:109
6300.212propaganda from the Ministry of TruthSNOC02::HAGARTYDMein Leben als HundTue May 23 1995 02:1011
6300.213SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Tue May 23 1995 11:2913
6300.214SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed May 24 1995 10:3911
6300.215SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed May 24 1995 10:3920
6300.216SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed May 24 1995 13:44499
6300.217SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu May 25 1995 11:227
6300.218SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu May 25 1995 11:226
6300.219SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu May 25 1995 14:1813
6300.220NRA phone #'s and address!SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu May 25 1995 14:2334
6300.221SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu May 25 1995 15:5214
6300.222SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu May 25 1995 17:5621
6300.223SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri May 26 1995 11:10102
6300.224There is seldom perfectionMINOTR::BANCROFTFri May 26 1995 11:442
6300.225SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri May 26 1995 12:299
6300.226SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri May 26 1995 12:30396
6300.227SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Tue May 30 1995 11:24289
6300.228SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Tue May 30 1995 11:25109
6300.229SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Tue May 30 1995 11:2576
6300.230SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Tue May 30 1995 11:258
6300.231SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Tue May 30 1995 11:2518
6300.232SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed May 31 1995 11:2819
6300.233SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 01 1995 11:039
6300.234SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 01 1995 16:0523
6300.235SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 01 1995 16:0617
6300.236SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 01 1995 17:1530
6300.237SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 01 1995 19:1896
6300.238SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jun 02 1995 11:1929
6300.239SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jun 02 1995 11:19296
6300.240SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jun 02 1995 11:2010
6300.241RANGER::DEMONTIGNYFri Jun 02 1995 19:5018
6300.242CSEXP2::ANDREWSI'm the NRAFri Jun 02 1995 19:563
6300.243someone called? :*) Jim (in from home)SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Sat Jun 03 1995 02:07517
6300.244SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon Jun 05 1995 11:29429
6300.245anyone catch this?SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon Jun 05 1995 11:3014
6300.246SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon Jun 05 1995 11:3030
6300.247SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon Jun 05 1995 11:30111
6300.248SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jun 07 1995 11:24106
6300.249SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jun 07 1995 12:0196
6300.250SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 08 1995 11:278
6300.251SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 08 1995 11:2812
6300.252SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 08 1995 13:4971
6300.253SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jun 09 1995 11:23301
6300.254SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jun 09 1995 11:2417
6300.255SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jun 09 1995 11:2472
6300.256RE: Shooting self in footMINOTR::BANCROFTFri Jun 09 1995 11:376
6300.257SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jun 09 1995 14:3210
6300.258SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon Jun 12 1995 11:1521
6300.259SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon Jun 12 1995 11:1522
6300.260SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon Jun 12 1995 11:1521
6300.261SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon Jun 12 1995 11:1522
6300.262SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon Jun 12 1995 11:1521
6300.263SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon Jun 12 1995 11:1627
6300.264SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon Jun 12 1995 11:1633
6300.265SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon Jun 12 1995 11:1622
6300.266SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon Jun 12 1995 11:1622
6300.267SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon Jun 12 1995 11:1671
6300.268SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon Jun 12 1995 11:17114
6300.269SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Mon Jun 12 1995 11:1775
6300.270SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jun 14 1995 11:4424
6300.271SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jun 14 1995 11:449
6300.272SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jun 14 1995 11:4564
6300.273SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 15 1995 11:259
6300.274SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 15 1995 11:257
6300.275SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 15 1995 16:5017
6300.276SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 15 1995 16:5079
6300.277SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 15 1995 16:50141
6300.278SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 15 1995 21:4529
6300.279SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jun 16 1995 15:23341
6300.280SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Sat Jun 17 1995 11:2015
6300.281SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Sat Jun 17 1995 13:55122
6300.282SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jun 21 1995 11:1714
6300.283SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jun 21 1995 14:4522
6300.284SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jun 21 1995 16:5440
6300.285Kentucky, Virginia, Louisina, New Jersey, MississipppiSUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 22 1995 11:14275
6300.286SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 22 1995 11:1534
6300.287SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 22 1995 14:24106
6300.288SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Sat Jun 24 1995 12:20133
6300.289SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Sat Jun 24 1995 12:20171
6300.290SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Sat Jun 24 1995 12:30117
6300.291SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Sat Jun 24 1995 12:32301
6300.292SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Sat Jun 24 1995 12:37101
6300.293SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Sat Jun 24 1995 12:39153
6300.294SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jun 28 1995 02:2910
6300.295SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 29 1995 11:1646
6300.296SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 29 1995 11:1711
6300.297SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jun 29 1995 11:1720
6300.298SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jun 30 1995 11:32331
6300.299SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jun 30 1995 11:3212
6300.300SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jun 30 1995 13:45466
6300.301SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Sat Jul 01 1995 11:3521
6300.302SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Sat Jul 01 1995 12:41104
6300.303SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Sat Jul 01 1995 17:14124
6300.304just got this in my mail today!SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jul 06 1995 11:29148
6300.305SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jul 07 1995 11:09105
6300.306SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jul 07 1995 15:0095
6300.307SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jul 07 1995 21:49286
6300.308SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 12 1995 11:4125
6300.309SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 12 1995 11:4195
6300.310SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 12 1995 11:4120
6300.311SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 12 1995 11:4128
6300.312SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 12 1995 11:42162
6300.313SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 12 1995 11:42104
6300.314SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 12 1995 11:4410
6300.315SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jul 13 1995 11:0216
6300.316SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jul 13 1995 11:0210
6300.317SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jul 13 1995 11:0257
6300.318SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jul 13 1995 19:21105
6300.319SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jul 14 1995 11:31473
6300.320SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jul 14 1995 11:3110
6300.321SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jul 14 1995 16:1027
6300.322SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jul 14 1995 21:2734
6300.323Why does HTTP://www.nra.org/ in .-1 get `Forbidden - by rule...error 403?FIEVEL::FILGATEBruce Filgate SHR3-2/W4 237-6452Fri Jul 14 1995 22:090
6300.324SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jul 14 1995 23:155
6300.325SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 19 1995 15:0599
6300.326SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 19 1995 15:15103
6300.327SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 19 1995 15:3039
6300.328SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 19 1995 15:30233
6300.329SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jul 20 1995 11:10131
6300.330SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jul 20 1995 11:10229
6300.331SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jul 21 1995 10:5566
6300.332SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 26 1995 14:32360
6300.333SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 26 1995 15:07143
6300.334SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 26 1995 15:0729
6300.335SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 26 1995 15:0845
6300.336SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 26 1995 15:17125
6300.337SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 26 1995 15:17214
6300.338SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 26 1995 15:1722
6300.339SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 26 1995 15:1828
6300.340SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 26 1995 15:19111
6300.341SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 26 1995 15:19188
6300.342SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Jul 26 1995 19:2781
6300.343SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jul 27 1995 13:13216
6300.344SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Jul 27 1995 19:5634
6300.345SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jul 28 1995 15:43278
6300.346SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jul 28 1995 15:43499
6300.347SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jul 28 1995 18:3922
6300.348SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Jul 28 1995 18:39255
6300.349SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 02 1995 14:18268
6300.350SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 02 1995 14:18213
6300.351SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 02 1995 14:18384
6300.352SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 02 1995 14:1967
6300.353SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 02 1995 14:2025
6300.354SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 02 1995 14:20116
6300.355SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 02 1995 14:20233
6300.356SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Aug 03 1995 11:3264
6300.357SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Aug 03 1995 11:33108
6300.358NRA membership loss is bogus.SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Aug 03 1995 14:5520
6300.359SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Sat Aug 05 1995 11:3211
6300.360SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Sat Aug 05 1995 11:33111
6300.361SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 16 1995 11:3421
6300.362SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 16 1995 11:3547
6300.363SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 16 1995 11:3593
6300.364SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 16 1995 11:35340
6300.365SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 16 1995 11:3627
6300.366SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 16 1995 11:3663
6300.367SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 16 1995 11:36118
6300.368SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 16 1995 11:36121
6300.369SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 16 1995 11:37298
6300.370town meeting alerts!SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 16 1995 11:37553
6300.371SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Wed Aug 16 1995 11:39109
6300.372<SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Aug 17 1995 20:59405
6300.373SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Aug 18 1995 10:58222
6300.374SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Aug 18 1995 10:58109
6300.375SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Fri Aug 18 1995 18:22172
6300.376SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Sat Aug 19 1995 11:02103
6300.377good reading...SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Sat Aug 19 1995 11:03384
6300.378SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Aug 24 1995 15:3781
6300.379SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Aug 24 1995 15:3736
6300.380SUBPAC::SADINWe the people?Thu Aug 24 1995 15:37135
6300.381NRA education loan programSUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Fri Aug 25 1995 11:3086
6300.382SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Fri Aug 25 1995 11:30120
6300.383SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Fri Aug 25 1995 11:31128
6300.384SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Thu Aug 31 1995 11:2464
6300.385SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Thu Aug 31 1995 11:24111
6300.386SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Thu Aug 31 1995 11:2495
6300.387SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Thu Aug 31 1995 11:2494
6300.388SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Thu Aug 31 1995 11:24474
6300.389SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Thu Aug 31 1995 11:2527
6300.390SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Thu Aug 31 1995 11:2573
6300.391SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Thu Aug 31 1995 11:25120
6300.392SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Fri Sep 01 1995 11:22239
6300.393SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Fri Sep 01 1995 11:2358
6300.394SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Fri Sep 01 1995 23:2167
6300.395SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sat Sep 02 1995 11:2434
6300.396SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sat Sep 02 1995 11:2437
6300.397SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sat Sep 02 1995 11:2446
6300.398SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sat Sep 02 1995 11:2445
6300.399SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sat Sep 02 1995 11:2467
6300.400SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sat Sep 02 1995 12:55497
6300.401SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Wed Sep 06 1995 11:1922
6300.402SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Wed Sep 06 1995 11:20171
6300.403SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Wed Sep 06 1995 11:20112
6300.404SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Sep 10 1995 15:30184
6300.405SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Sep 10 1995 15:3022
6300.406SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Sep 10 1995 15:30255
6300.407SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Sep 10 1995 15:30103
6300.408SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Sep 10 1995 15:31145
6300.409SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Tue Sep 12 1995 10:2810
6300.410SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Tue Sep 12 1995 10:2831
6300.411SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Tue Sep 12 1995 10:28127
6300.412SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Tue Sep 12 1995 10:2850
6300.413SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Wed Sep 13 1995 16:4337
6300.415SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Sep 17 1995 19:10117
6300.416SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Sep 17 1995 19:11168
6300.417SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Sep 17 1995 19:11242
6300.418SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Sep 17 1995 19:1161
6300.419SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Sep 17 1995 19:11350
6300.420SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Sep 17 1995 19:1222
6300.421sorry this is late! I just got in today.SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Sep 17 1995 19:1213
6300.422SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Sep 17 1995 19:1336
6300.423SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Sep 17 1995 19:1394
6300.424SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Mon Sep 25 1995 11:0911
6300.425SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Mon Sep 25 1995 11:0989
6300.426SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Mon Sep 25 1995 11:09126
6300.427SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Mon Sep 25 1995 11:09256
6300.428SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Mon Sep 25 1995 11:1071
6300.429SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Mon Sep 25 1995 11:1070
6300.430SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Mon Sep 25 1995 11:10119
6300.431SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Mon Sep 25 1995 11:10135
6300.432SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Mon Sep 25 1995 11:11150
6300.433SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Mon Sep 25 1995 11:128
6300.434SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Tue Sep 26 1995 10:27123
6300.435SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Tue Sep 26 1995 10:28137
6300.436I didn't get this until 12:30am 9/27! SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Wed Sep 27 1995 10:2362
6300.437SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Wed Sep 27 1995 10:24115
6300.438SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Oct 01 1995 17:08120
6300.439SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Oct 01 1995 17:0818
6300.440SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Oct 01 1995 17:0927
6300.441SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Tue Oct 03 1995 10:12167
6300.442SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Tue Oct 03 1995 10:1279
6300.443MAIL2::CRANETue Oct 03 1995 11:272
6300.444check this out! SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Tue Oct 03 1995 21:30410
6300.445SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Wed Oct 04 1995 09:5847
6300.446SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Wed Oct 04 1995 09:5893
6300.447SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Oct 08 1995 11:57121
6300.448SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Oct 08 1995 11:57242
6300.449SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Oct 08 1995 11:5773
6300.450SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Oct 08 1995 11:5713
6300.451SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Oct 08 1995 11:58722
6300.452SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Oct 08 1995 11:58262
6300.453SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Oct 08 1995 11:5826
6300.454SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Oct 08 1995 11:5835
6300.455SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Oct 08 1995 11:59240
6300.456SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Oct 08 1995 11:59133
6300.457SUBPAC::SADINfrankly scallop, I don't give a clam!Sun Oct 08 1995 11:59116
6300.458SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Oct 17 1995 10:22104
6300.459SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Oct 17 1995 10:22130
6300.460SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Oct 17 1995 10:23104
6300.461SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Oct 17 1995 10:2334
6300.462SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Oct 17 1995 10:23349
6300.463SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Oct 17 1995 10:2317
6300.464SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Oct 18 1995 10:1058
6300.465SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Oct 18 1995 10:10119
6300.466SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 22 1995 10:41120
6300.467SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 22 1995 10:41203
6300.468SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 22 1995 10:41414
6300.469SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 22 1995 10:42111
6300.470SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 22 1995 10:42117
6300.471SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Oct 28 1995 16:3346
6300.472SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Oct 28 1995 16:3398
6300.473SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Oct 28 1995 16:34102
6300.474SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Oct 28 1995 16:35130
6300.475SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Oct 28 1995 16:3519
6300.476SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Oct 28 1995 16:3641
6300.477SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Oct 28 1995 16:3626
6300.478SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Oct 28 1995 16:37523
6300.479SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Oct 28 1995 16:37718
6300.480SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Oct 28 1995 16:38108
6300.481SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Oct 28 1995 16:3932
6300.482SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Oct 28 1995 16:39537
6300.483SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Oct 28 1995 16:40122
6300.484SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Nov 01 1995 10:3769
6300.485SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Nov 01 1995 10:37125
6300.486SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Nov 01 1995 10:37251
6300.487SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Nov 01 1995 10:3765
6300.488SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 05 1995 13:57122
6300.489SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 05 1995 13:57379
6300.490SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 05 1995 13:5774
6300.491SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 05 1995 13:58112
6300.492SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 05 1995 13:58101
6300.493excellent letter....a must readSUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 05 1995 14:04216
6300.494SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 05 1995 14:0562
6300.495SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 12 1995 13:43139
6300.496SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 12 1995 13:4315
6300.497SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 12 1995 13:45128
6300.498SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 12 1995 13:45102
6300.499SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 12 1995 13:46457
6300.500SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 12 1995 13:4788
6300.501SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Nov 14 1995 10:1414
6300.502SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 19 1995 10:1812
6300.503SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 19 1995 10:1925
6300.504SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 19 1995 10:20125
6300.505SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 19 1995 10:22251
6300.506SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 19 1995 10:23394
6300.507SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 19 1995 10:25107
6300.508SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 19 1995 10:26465
6300.509SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Nov 20 1995 22:12108
6300.510SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Nov 21 1995 19:57141
6300.511SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Nov 25 1995 14:1757
6300.512SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Nov 25 1995 14:17121
6300.513SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Nov 28 1995 15:09116
6300.514SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Nov 28 1995 15:30361
6300.515SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 03 1995 10:17132
6300.516SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 03 1995 10:1759
6300.517SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 03 1995 10:17101
6300.518SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Dec 04 1995 09:35120
6300.519SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Dec 04 1995 09:36157
6300.520SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Dec 05 1995 11:38521
6300.521SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 10 1995 14:2878
6300.522SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 10 1995 14:2991
6300.523SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 10 1995 14:29120
6300.524SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 10 1995 14:3090
6300.525SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 10 1995 14:3027
6300.526SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 10 1995 14:3030
6300.527SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 10 1995 14:30108
6300.528SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 10 1995 14:3075
6300.529SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 10 1995 14:31102
6300.530anyone catch this?SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Dec 12 1995 12:548
6300.531Way to go Sister!GENRAL::KILGOREThe UT Desert Rat living in COWed Dec 13 1995 14:2312
6300.532SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Dec 13 1995 14:256
6300.533SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Dec 13 1995 15:1041
6300.534SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 17 1995 18:49125
6300.535SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 17 1995 18:5070
6300.536SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 17 1995 18:50124
6300.537CALL!!!! $.50 poll worth taking..!SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Dec 30 1995 17:1832
6300.538SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jan 02 1996 10:1711
6300.539SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jan 02 1996 10:22121
6300.540SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jan 02 1996 10:22250
6300.541SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jan 02 1996 10:2291
6300.542SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jan 02 1996 10:22128
6300.543SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jan 02 1996 10:2227
6300.544SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jan 02 1996 10:23114
6300.545SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jan 02 1996 10:23108
6300.546SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jan 02 1996 10:2392
6300.547SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jan 02 1996 21:0444
6300.548SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Jan 08 1996 09:45116
6300.549SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Jan 08 1996 09:45500
6300.550SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Jan 08 1996 09:4534
6300.551SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Jan 08 1996 09:4620
6300.552SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Jan 08 1996 09:46104
6300.553SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Jan 08 1996 09:4694
6300.554SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 14 1996 09:5336
6300.555SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 14 1996 09:5313
6300.556SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 14 1996 09:539
6300.557SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 14 1996 09:5314
6300.558SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 14 1996 09:5322
6300.559SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 14 1996 09:5411
6300.560SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 14 1996 09:5419
6300.561SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 14 1996 09:54103
6300.562SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 14 1996 09:54160
6300.563SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 14 1996 09:54118
6300.564Watch this program! I'll be taping it for sure!SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Jan 17 1996 13:5541
6300.565SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Jan 17 1996 14:0761
6300.566SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Thu Jan 18 1996 12:1417
6300.567CBS show was even-handedTAMDNO::WHITMANthe 2nd Amendment assures the restThu Jan 18 1996 12:5129
6300.568report from spouse was positiveGENRAL::KILGOREThe UT Desert Rat living in COThu Jan 18 1996 14:5210
6300.569Opportunity missedNETCAD::MCGRATHThu Jan 18 1996 15:4833
6300.570GRANPA::MWANNEMACHERbe nice, be happyThu Jan 18 1996 16:4410
6300.571this show was not un-balancedTAMDNO::WHITMANthe 2nd Amendment assures the restThu Jan 18 1996 17:2436
6300.572SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 21 1996 10:08132
6300.573SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 21 1996 10:08240
6300.574SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 21 1996 10:09142
6300.575SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 21 1996 10:09164
6300.576SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 21 1996 10:09472
6300.577SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 21 1996 10:0929
6300.578SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 21 1996 10:0910
6300.579SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 21 1996 10:1023
6300.580SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 21 1996 10:1040
6300.581SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 21 1996 10:10124
6300.582SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 28 1996 10:21122
6300.583SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 28 1996 10:2218
6300.584SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 28 1996 10:22338
6300.585SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 28 1996 10:2260
6300.586SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 28 1996 10:2256
6300.587SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 28 1996 10:22118
6300.588SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 28 1996 10:23126
6300.589SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 28 1996 10:23134
6300.590SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 28 1996 10:23118
6300.591good news for CA!SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jan 30 1996 10:0065
6300.592SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 04 1996 11:49566
6300.593SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 04 1996 11:4914
6300.594I don't know about you, but I'm sending $50 to the NRA!SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 04 1996 11:49813
6300.595SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 04 1996 11:50123
6300.596SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 04 1996 20:47117
6300.597SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 04 1996 21:268
6300.598SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 11 1996 10:25257
6300.599SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 11 1996 10:2748
6300.600SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 11 1996 10:27125
6300.601SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 11 1996 10:2725
6300.602SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 11 1996 10:28392
6300.603SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 11 1996 10:2815
6300.604SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 11 1996 10:2814
6300.605SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 11 1996 10:28123
6300.606SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 11 1996 10:2826
6300.607SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Feb 14 1996 10:05115
6300.608SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 18 1996 10:22121
6300.609SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 18 1996 10:2256
6300.610SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 18 1996 10:2340
6300.611SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 18 1996 10:2356
6300.612SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 18 1996 10:2350
6300.613SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Feb 20 1996 09:53112
6300.614SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Feb 20 1996 09:537
6300.615SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Feb 20 1996 09:547
6300.616SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Feb 20 1996 09:548
6300.617SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Feb 20 1996 09:546
6300.618SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Feb 20 1996 09:549
6300.619SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Feb 20 1996 09:548
6300.620SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Feb 20 1996 09:558
6300.621SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Feb 20 1996 09:5523
6300.622SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Feb 20 1996 14:559
6300.623SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 25 1996 10:17114
6300.624SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 25 1996 10:17128
6300.625SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 25 1996 16:48125
6300.626SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Feb 28 1996 12:558
6300.627SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 03 1996 10:2744
6300.628SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 03 1996 10:27130
6300.629SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 03 1996 10:2783
6300.630SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 03 1996 10:27289
6300.631SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 03 1996 14:23124
6300.632SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 03 1996 14:2354
6300.633SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 03 1996 14:2354
6300.634SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Mar 05 1996 20:2235
6300.635SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 10 1996 14:1697
6300.636SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 10 1996 14:16102
6300.637SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 10 1996 14:17130
6300.638SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 10 1996 16:2887
6300.639SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 10 1996 17:16109
6300.640SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 10 1996 18:54120
6300.641SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 10 1996 18:5444
6300.642from the RANDOM SHOTS columnSUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 10 1996 18:5921
6300.643SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 10 1996 19:0935
6300.644SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Mar 12 1996 09:4693
6300.645SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Mar 13 1996 09:5931
6300.646SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Mar 13 1996 10:0033
6300.647SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Mar 18 1996 11:25102
6300.648SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Mar 18 1996 11:2544
6300.649SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Mar 18 1996 11:25117
6300.650SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Mar 18 1996 11:2512
6300.651SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Mar 18 1996 11:26121
6300.652SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Mar 18 1996 11:26107
6300.653SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Mar 18 1996 11:2697
6300.654SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Mar 18 1996 11:26170
6300.655SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Mar 18 1996 11:26195
6300.656SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Mar 18 1996 11:2798
6300.657SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Mar 19 1996 10:24109
6300.658sorry this stuff is dated...I was out most of last weekSUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 24 1996 10:2553
6300.659SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 24 1996 10:25130
6300.660SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 24 1996 10:25118
6300.661SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 24 1996 10:2557
6300.662SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 24 1996 10:2552
6300.663SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 24 1996 10:2534
6300.664SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 24 1996 10:2688
6300.665SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 24 1996 10:26605
6300.666SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 24 1996 10:2620
6300.667SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 31 1996 11:2937
6300.668SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 31 1996 11:2919
6300.669SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 31 1996 11:2951
6300.670SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 31 1996 11:2957
6300.671SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 31 1996 11:30116
6300.672SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 31 1996 11:3076
6300.673SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 31 1996 11:3023
6300.674SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 31 1996 11:30122
6300.675SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 31 1996 11:3063
6300.676SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 31 1996 11:301065
6300.677SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Apr 02 1996 10:33119
6300.678SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Apr 02 1996 10:33303
6300.679SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Apr 03 1996 10:4961
6300.680SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Thu Apr 04 1996 12:56126
6300.681SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 07 1996 10:2236
6300.682SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 07 1996 10:22117
6300.683SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 07 1996 10:2249
6300.684SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Apr 09 1996 10:46153
6300.685SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Apr 16 1996 11:1590
6300.686SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Apr 22 1996 10:50117
6300.687SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Apr 22 1996 10:5016
6300.688SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Apr 22 1996 10:5134
6300.689SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Apr 22 1996 10:51172
6300.690SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Apr 24 1996 11:1077
6300.691this should be a good debate!SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Apr 24 1996 11:1110
6300.692SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Apr 24 1996 11:11126
6300.693SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Apr 24 1996 11:11160
6300.694SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Apr 24 1996 11:11200
6300.695SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 28 1996 11:04122
6300.696SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 28 1996 11:0472
6300.697update on H5850 in here...SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 28 1996 11:0495
6300.698SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 28 1996 11:05126
6300.699SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Apr 30 1996 10:5298
6300.700SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Apr 30 1996 10:52550
6300.701SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 05 1996 11:08120
6300.702SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 05 1996 11:08118
6300.703SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 12 1996 10:37131
6300.704SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 12 1996 10:3742
6300.705SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 12 1996 10:3763
6300.706SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 12 1996 10:3862
6300.707SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 12 1996 10:3847
6300.708SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 12 1996 10:38115
6300.709SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 12 1996 10:3836
6300.710SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 12 1996 10:3864
6300.711SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue May 14 1996 16:2731
6300.712SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed May 15 1996 10:4324
6300.713SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed May 15 1996 19:4121
6300.714SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon May 20 1996 11:31128
6300.715SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon May 20 1996 11:3132
6300.716SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon May 20 1996 11:31123
6300.717SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon May 20 1996 11:3161
6300.718SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon May 20 1996 11:3149
6300.719SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon May 20 1996 11:3263
6300.720SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue May 21 1996 11:0257
6300.721SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 26 1996 14:06119
6300.722SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 26 1996 14:06122
6300.723SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 26 1996 14:08122
6300.724SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed May 29 1996 10:4622
6300.725SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 02 1996 11:11126
6300.726SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 02 1996 11:12557
6300.727SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 02 1996 11:14134
6300.728SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 09 1996 11:3720
6300.729SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 09 1996 11:38126
6300.730SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 09 1996 11:38128
6300.731SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 09 1996 11:389
6300.732SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jun 11 1996 21:49114
6300.733SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 16 1996 12:17276
6300.734SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 16 1996 12:1733
6300.735SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 16 1996 12:18112
6300.736SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 16 1996 12:1867
6300.737SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 16 1996 12:1821
6300.738SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 16 1996 12:1844
6300.739SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 16 1996 12:18141
6300.740SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 23 1996 11:2882
6300.741SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 23 1996 11:28120
6300.742SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 23 1996 11:2839
6300.743SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 23 1996 11:2850
6300.744SUBPAC::SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 23 1996 11:29130
6300.745FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 30 1996 12:47121
6300.746FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 30 1996 12:4876
6300.747FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 30 1996 12:4948
6300.748FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 30 1996 12:5041
6300.749FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 30 1996 12:5028
6300.750FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jun 30 1996 12:5124
6300.751FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Jul 01 1996 15:3353
6300.752FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Jul 01 1996 23:3723
6300.753FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jul 02 1996 10:5625
6300.754from the NRA homepageFABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jul 02 1996 15:0190
6300.755FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Jul 06 1996 11:16229
6300.756FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Jul 06 1996 11:16123
6300.757FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sat Jul 06 1996 11:16558
6300.758FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jul 14 1996 11:0743
6300.759FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jul 14 1996 11:07256
6300.760FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jul 14 1996 11:09134
6300.761FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jul 14 1996 11:10130
6300.762extract on Massachusetts from last message! read!FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jul 14 1996 11:1014
6300.763FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jul 21 1996 15:10128
6300.764FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jul 21 1996 15:1044
6300.765FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jul 21 1996 15:1025
6300.766FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jul 21 1996 15:1035
6300.767FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jul 21 1996 15:1066
6300.768FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jul 21 1996 15:11113
6300.769FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jul 30 1996 17:39107
6300.770FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jul 30 1996 17:3996
6300.771more BS legislation...call today!FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Jul 31 1996 10:4650
6300.772FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Aug 11 1996 11:33126
6300.773FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Aug 11 1996 11:3321
6300.774FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Aug 11 1996 11:33111
6300.775FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Aug 19 1996 19:55120
6300.776FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Aug 19 1996 19:55110
6300.777FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Aug 21 1996 11:1849
6300.778FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Aug 25 1996 21:09127
6300.779FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Aug 25 1996 21:11102
6300.780FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Sep 01 1996 13:10117
6300.781anyone else got that sinking feeling in their stomach?FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Sep 01 1996 13:10260
6300.782FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Sep 01 1996 13:10206
6300.783FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Fri Sep 06 1996 17:57131
6300.784FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Fri Sep 06 1996 17:58115
6300.785FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Fri Sep 06 1996 17:5819
6300.786FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Sep 11 1996 11:01113
6300.787FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Thu Sep 12 1996 11:02120
6300.788FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Sep 15 1996 16:58118
6300.789FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Sep 18 1996 11:1646
6300.790FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Sep 18 1996 11:1773
6300.791FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Sep 23 1996 11:26113
6300.792call about this one!FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Sep 23 1996 11:2681
6300.793FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Sep 23 1996 16:58125
6300.794FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Sep 29 1996 17:0587
6300.795FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Sep 29 1996 17:05119
6300.796FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Sep 29 1996 17:0528
6300.797FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Sep 29 1996 17:05103
6300.798FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 06 1996 11:05122
6300.799FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 06 1996 11:05121
6300.800FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Oct 09 1996 20:1723
6300.801FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 13 1996 11:17259
6300.802FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 13 1996 11:1772
6300.803FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 13 1996 11:1751
6300.804FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 13 1996 11:1757
6300.805FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 13 1996 11:17127
6300.806FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 13 1996 11:1869
6300.807FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 13 1996 11:1856
6300.808FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 13 1996 11:1860
6300.809FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 13 1996 11:18120
6300.810FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 20 1996 11:2761
6300.811FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 20 1996 11:27465
6300.812FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 20 1996 11:27122
6300.813FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 27 1996 20:47127
6300.814FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 27 1996 20:48142
6300.815FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Oct 27 1996 20:48128
6300.816FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 03 1996 11:1326
6300.817FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 03 1996 11:13125
6300.818FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 03 1996 11:1329
6300.819FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 03 1996 11:13123
6300.820FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Nov 12 1996 17:42123
6300.821FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Nov 12 1996 17:43103
6300.822FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Nov 12 1996 22:0094
6300.823Boutros Boutros is a dope!WMOIS::GIROUARD_CWed Nov 13 1996 09:0412
6300.824FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Nov 13 1996 09:5510
6300.825BSS::PROCTOR_RNot with a bang, but with a whimperWed Nov 13 1996 13:5310
6300.826FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 17 1996 14:3756
6300.827FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 17 1996 14:37337
6300.828YMMVVMSNET::RRICKI'd rather be fishing!Mon Nov 18 1996 00:0724
6300.829FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Nov 18 1996 10:097
6300.830FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Nov 19 1996 09:54108
6300.831NRA officially "in" with the U.N.!FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Nov 19 1996 09:55126
6300.832FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 24 1996 20:2136
6300.833FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 24 1996 20:2158
6300.834FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 24 1996 20:21120
6300.835FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 24 1996 20:2181
6300.836FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Nov 24 1996 20:22288
6300.837FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 01 1996 11:5287
6300.838FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 01 1996 11:5356
6300.839FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Dec 04 1996 10:13115
6300.840FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Dec 09 1996 12:43129
6300.841FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Dec 09 1996 12:43135
6300.842FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Dec 11 1996 09:35119
6300.843FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Dec 11 1996 09:35352
6300.844FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Dec 23 1996 18:31135
6300.845FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Dec 23 1996 18:32115
6300.846FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Dec 23 1996 18:32123
6300.847FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Dec 23 1996 18:3292
6300.848FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Dec 29 1996 19:15113
6300.849FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 05 1997 13:54115
6300.850FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 05 1997 13:54132
6300.851FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 05 1997 13:5427
6300.852FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 12 1997 12:33136
6300.853FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 12 1997 12:33130
6300.854FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 12 1997 12:33533
6300.855FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Jan 13 1997 20:35100
6300.856FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 19 1997 13:22107
6300.857FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 19 1997 13:2255
6300.858FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Jan 19 1997 13:22131
6300.859FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jan 21 1997 13:56152
6300.860FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Jan 21 1997 14:00134
6300.861FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Jan 29 1997 22:00214
January 28, 1997

The following contains NRA's comments on the proposed revision
and consolidation of the federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
law enforcement regulations.

The deadline for public comment has been extended until March 7,
1997, and NRA Members and gun owners are encouraged to send their
own comments to BLM at the address below.

NRA-ILA
==============
                         January 22, 1997

Dennis McLane
Bureau of Land Management
Administrative Record
Room 401LS
1849 C Street, NW
Washington, DC 20240

Dear Mr. McLane;

The National Rifle Association of America (NRA) appreciates the
opportunity to comment on the proposed rule published in the
Federal Register on November 7th, 1996 concerning the revision
and consolidation of law enforcement regulations for the Bureau
of Land Management (BLM).

First and foremost, the NRA disagrees that the proposed rule
would "help the public and Federal, State, and local agencies to
understand the scope of BLM law enforcement authority."  Instead,
the proposed rule is very confusing, difficult to read, and
nearly impossible to understand.  Although the BLM has twice
extended the comment period on the proposed rule to help
ameliorate these problems, an additional 30-60 days will do
little to stem the confusion because of the poor manner in which
the rule is written.

Consolidating all of the BLM law enforcement regulations into one
area of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) is a vast
undertaking that should not be taken lightly by either the BLM or
the public.  The NRA does not understand why more attention was
not paid to explaining the necessity and purpose of the
consolidation in the proposed rule.  Other than general
references to "streamlining" and "efficiency," the BLM has failed
to adequately notify the public as to the reasons that this
consolidation is necessary, not just convenient.

The proposed rule is also procedurally flawed in that it fails to
accurately provide references which show whether current
regulations are merely being "consolidated" or substantively
changed.  Although the stated purpose of the proposed rule is a
"consolidation," the NRA has found instances where substantive
changes have been included in the proposed rule, some of which
are discussed below.  The NRA therefore questions whether the BLM
has provided adequate notice to the public, because a
"consolidation" of existing regulations is much different than
substantive changes to current regulations.  If substantive
changes are being proposed, the public should be notified of
these changes and the reasons for them.  Providing a "chart" of
existing regulations and their new counterparts does not
constitute adequate notice.  As explained, there are sections of
the proposed rule that are substantive changes to current
regulations; therefore, reference to the "chart" is misleading to
the public.  For those changes that are substantive in nature,
further explanation is required beyond referencing "streamlining"
or "consolidating" considerations. 

Additionally, the NRA is concerned that a consolidation of all
law enforcement regulations is not only unnecessary, but will
lead to greater confusion in the future.  Most of the applicable
rules that govern recreational or other uses on BLM lands can be
found in specific areas of the CFR which address individual uses
and in the land use plan for a specific BLM unit.  However, the
"consolidation" may give users the impression that reference to a
specific unit's land use plan or the specific regulations
governing an individual use is no longer necessary because all of
BLM's law enforcement regulations have been "consolidated."  This
will obviously lead to unknowing violations by otherwise
law-abiding users because, as the BLM freely admits on page 57605
of the proposed rule:

     "it is not possible to completely consolidate all of BLM's
     regulations which impose requirements on the public, the
     knowing and willful violation of which would subject a
     person to criminal penalties."

Recognizing this, the NRA does not understand how the BLM can
claim that this consolidation effort will lead to a greater
understanding among the public on what activities are prohibited
or allowed on BLM lands.  With this proposed rule, users would
have to consult two sections of the CFR before acting when
currently they only need to consult one.  With this in mind, the
NRA recommends that the BLM reappraise the merits of
consolidating the law enforcement regulations against the greater
confusion that will arise among users who no longer will be sure
of where to look for guidance.

The NRA recommends that the proposed rule's question and answer
format be eliminated.  Presumably, this format was used along
with "plain language" to make the proposed rule more reader
friendly; however, the exact opposite is the case.  The question
and answer format only leads the reader to speculate whether all
prohibitions for a given use are included in the section. 
Section 9262.1 is a perfect example of the confusion that
permeates the entire proposed rule.  This section's "question"
(heading) is "What BLM rules must I follow when I'm on BLM lands
or in BLM buildings or facilities."  If one were to take that
"question" literally, then the "answer" should provide all the
rules applicable to persons on BLM lands.  Yet the substance of
Section 9262.1 appears to apply only to fraud, battery, assault
and resisting arrest.  Members of the public, unaware of the
intricacies of how the CFR is structured, may go to this section
and assume that if they follow these rules, even when engaged in
a specific use governed by regulation elsewhere, they will be
abiding by the law. 

The NRA is confident that the more responsible and responsive
approach would be for the BLM to write regulations that apply to
specific conduct or subject areas and make such regulations
available to the public by allocating them to specific areas in
the CFR with specific headings that fairly describe the scope of
the subjects governed.      

One of the substantive changes that the NRA has concerns with is
Section 9262.7(b) which addresses the discharge of firearms.  The
current regulation which BLM references as the precursor of
Section 9262.7(b) says absolutely nothing about the discharge of
firearms.  The NRA must therefore assume that there is no current
regulation concerning the discharge of firearms and that the BLM
is proposing a substantive change to the status quo.  Again, the
BLM has failed to provide adequate notice to the public on the
rationale for why this change is being proposed.  

Section 9262.7(b) appears to restrict and impede safe and
otherwise lawful hunting and target shooting on BLM lands.  As
written, Section 9262.7(b)(1) contains a prohibition against
discharging a firearm "within 150 yards of a ... building,
campsite ... or occupied area."  The proposed rule does not
define these terms so there is little to suggest that "building"
could not mean abandoned shack, "campsite" could not mean
temporary rest area, and "occupied area" would not include any
area occupied by others in one's own hunting party.  The NRA
strongly recommends that these terms be defined so as to prevent
the possibility of misinterpretation such as applying the
prohibition to structures or sites beyond what was intended such
as unoccupied buildings, unoccupied campsites, etc.  

Section 9262.7(b)(2) is equally problematic because of the
inclusion of "... an adjacent body of water."  Does this language
mean bodies of water adjacent to a "...maintained highway, road,
or trail...", or does it mean adjacent to the person discharging
a firearm?  This section needs clarification because hunting
"adjacent to" a "body of water" whether tank, seasonal stream, or
the like is very common and popular in the west.  Certainly it
cannot be argued that discharging a firearm across a small stream
poses any safety concern.  It is therefore impossible to know
what the BLM's purpose is by including the reference to a "body
of water." While the NRA recognizes that discharging a firearm
across a large water body adjacent to a road can be unsafe, the
expansive language of this section could prohibit more safe and
otherwise lawful hunting than unsafe discharges of firearms.  
 
It appears that the BLM has also made substantive changes to
current regulations in Section 9266.25.  The BLM cites 43 CFR 
8365.2-5 as the precursor to this new section, yet 8365.2-5 only
speaks to developed recreation sites and does not prohibit the
discharge of firearms on or over "water bodies."  Again, if the
BLM is making substantive changes to current regulations, then
the proposed rule must notify the public of these changes and
explain why they are necessary.  The NRA reiterates the same
concerns with Section 9266.25 that we have with Section
9262.7(b)(2) regarding the prohibition against discharging a
firearm "over or from water bodies on or adjacent to BLM lands." 
This prohibition would have the effect of restricting safe and
otherwise lawful hunting for no apparent (or offered ) reason. 
We strongly recommend that the terms "water bodies" and "body of
water" be made consistent throughout the proposed rule and
clearly defined for Sections 9262.7 and 9266.25.   

In summary, the NRA finds this proposed rule deficient because
it:  1) fails to inform the public of the reasons that a
consolidation of the law enforcement regulations is necessary, 2)
misleads the public by including substantive changes under the
moniker of a "consolidation" of current regulations, 3) fails to
provide adequate notice of substantive changes being made to
specific regulations, 4) will lead to greater confusion of what
is and is not prohibited among the publics that the BLM serves,
5) makes changes to current regulations (or lack thereof)
concerning the use of firearms that unreasonably restrict hunting
and shooting opportunities, and 6) fails to use the traditional
rulemaking format that would have lent greater understanding and
clarity to BLM's objectives.

It is unlikely that the BLM can reasonably address these
deficiencies during the formation of a final rule.  Accordingly,
the NRA strongly recommends that the BLM withdraw the proposed
rule from further consideration and action.  We appreciate the
opportunity to comment on the proposed rule.

Sincerely,

Tanya K. Metaksa
Executive Director
NRA Institute for Legislative Action

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.862BLM public meeting in Canon CityCSC32::J_HENSONDon't get even, get ahead!Thu Jan 30 1997 14:0217
>>         <<< Note 6300.861 by FABSIX::J_SADIN "Freedom isn't free." >>>
>>
>>January 28, 1997
>>
>>The following contains NRA's comments on the proposed revision
>>and consolidation of the federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
>>law enforcement regulations.

Those of you in the Colorado Springs/Pueblo area may wish to attend
a public meeting to discuss this.  It will be held on Tuesday, Feb.
4 at 7:00 P.M. at the BLM offices in Canon City.  The address is
3170 E. Main.  The phone number is (719)269-8500.

If you are not familiar with the area, the BLM offices are located
on Hwy. 50 on the very east side of Canon City.  

Jerry
6300.863FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 02 1997 16:30118
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly

             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No. 4                                    January 28, 1997

L.A.'s Twin-Towers Open, But Revolving Door Still Spinning

     The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Dept. opened its $373
million Twin Towers jail on Saturday, more than 15 months after
completion.  But even its 4,000-inmate capacity won't overcome
the need for more cells, meaning the county's revolving jail door
will just keep spinning.

     Sheriff Sherman Block said the new facility still leaves him
with a system capacity of just 13,000 inmates to house an
estimated 35,000 to 40,000 criminals he says should be
incarcerated.  Block has been stung by newspaper accounts about
the wholesale release of thousands of criminals after only
abbreviated confinement.  The Los Angeles Times reported that the
average criminal is serving less than 25% of his sentence, but
Block says the problem should be blamed on the entire criminal
justice system and a lack of resources.

     The county couldn't come up with the estimated $100 million
a year needed to staff and operate the jail after it was
completed in October 1995.  Sheriff Block will lease county jail
space to federal and state authorities to raise money to operate
the new jail.  That arrangement, however,  reduces the gain from
opening Twin Towers to just 1,800 inmates.

Paroled Murderer Attacks Illinois Cop

     John Wayne Britz, 36, paroled less than a year ago, has now
been charged with aggravated battery and resisting arrest, by
Springfield, Illinois police.  Britz had served 13 years, just
over half his sentence, for the 1979 murder of a recent college
graduate at a Springfield gas station.
     
Pennsylvania Makes Good On Promised Juvenile Reform

     The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections is purchasing 83
acres in Indiana County for construction of a maximum-security
correctional facility that can house up to 500 juvenile
offenders.  Construction on the  site in west-central
Pennsylvania is expected to be completed in 1999.

     Pennsylvania passed legislation in 1995 that called for
sentencing violent juvenile offenders age 15 and older who commit
certain offenses as adults, part of the anti-crime package
approved by the state legislature during a special session on
crime.  Of course, implementation requires building the facility,
and this type of follow-through is not always forthcoming.

     State Sen. Mike Fisher's leadership in helping legislate
tough but fair responses to the state's crime problem helped
propel him into the state attorney general's office last fall.  
Fisher was the fifth recipient of NRA CrimeStrike's Defender of
Justice award last year.

Courts Give Mixed Verdicts On New Federal Restitution Law

     The constitutionality of the 1996 federal Mandatory Victim
Restitution Act has been upheld in an Oregon federal  district
court case involving a man ordered to make complete restitution
for $120,000 in damages in an arson case.

     Earlier, an Alabama federal court had held the restitution
provision unconstitutional in its application to a bank robber's 
case (U.S. V. Kemp), calling the law unworkable.

     In the Oregon case (U.S. v. Dean), defendant Antoine Dean,
who also received a 60-month prison sentence, sought to avoid the
restitution order on Eighth Amendment grounds.  He'll pay $5 per
month while in prison, $25 per month thereafter for 20 years. 
The court reserved the right to adjust the restitution schedule.

     The restitution provision is part of the Antiterrorism and 
Effective Death Penalty Act and replaced the federal Victim 
and Witness Protection Act.

One Too Many Frivolous Lawsuits

     Fed up with a prison inmate who filed 46 court petitions in
1996, the South Carolina Supreme Court has told Theron Maxton
that enough is enough.  Henceforth, the court ruled in December,
Maxton must pay a $25 filing fee.  He also faces a contempt
charge if he brings any  more "repetitive and frivolous"
petitions, the court ruled.

     Congress acted last year against an onslaught of prisoner
lawsuits (65,550 in 1995) by passing the Prison Litigation Reform
Act that requires inmates who file repeat frivolous suits to pay
fees for petitions filed in federal courts.

     Maxton is serving a 17-year sentence for armed robbery,
aggravated assault and threatening to kill a former South
Carolina governor and his wife.  He has complained about alleged
mistreatment by prison staff, including an attempt by a nurse to
"poison" him with penicillin. 

      Want more facts on crime and some workable solutions?
       Call for an NRA CrimeStrike fact pack: 800.868-4411.

                 A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
      Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.864FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 02 1997 16:33121
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 5                                             1/31/97

           A Personal Note to NRA Grassroots Champions 
                      from Tanya K. Metaksa
     Executive Director, NRA Institute for Legislative Action

     On Thursday, January 30, 1997, the New York Times ran a
page-one story that is being picked up by news media across the
country.  "A fierce battle is under way for control of the
National Rifle Association, with a hard-line dissident faction
threatening to oust the current leadership," the story began. 
The article goes on to say, "[t]he dissident faction, led by Neal
Knox, the first vice president, who has consolidated his power
through the board of directors, is trying to topple Wayne R.
LaPierre, Jr., the executive vice president since 1991.  Also on
the firing line are the association's president, Marion Hammer,
and its chief lobbyist, Tanya Metaksa."

     The news media has always been fascinated with the inner
workings of "the powerful gun lobby" -- unwilling to admit that
our strength lies not in the Board or in the staff but in our
members.  So, to a certain extent, the coverage of this
particular controversy is nothing new.   However, this is a
crucial time for this 125-year-old organization and the
fundamental freedoms it protects.  So, let me offer a few
observations on the principles at stake.  I have heard the
struggle for Second Amendment rights compared to a wrestling
match, but in our contest, there is no timed match.  This contest
between pro-gun and anti-gun is constant.  Each side has a
hammerlock on the other.  One slip, and the balance is upset and
somebody is pinned down.  We are constantly checking our footing. 
We are constantly on watch for new movements by the anti-gunners
or their press allies.  We are constantly pushing, constantly
planning, constantly moving.  And so are the bad guys.  In short,
there is no lull.  The only constant...is struggle.  
 
     Because of your involvement as NRA members -- and your
leadership as NRA champions -- we have made history.  Election
'94 and '96 were the most successful in our history.  And we
translated those electoral victories into legislative action --
from repealing the Clinton Gun Ban in the House of
Representatives to passing Right to Carry in state after state.  
And we are poised for new struggles: more states where self-
defense outside the home becomes a reality -- even a national
Right to Carry (the Stearns reciprocity bill) in the U.S.
Congress.  And we are making inroads in the PR battle.  We are
topping the other side in both strategy and tactics -- without
the benefit of a national paid advertising campaign.  For
example, we are constantly sending the self-defense message to
new audiences, especially women embracing the Second Amendment
for the first time in their lives.  It's no wonder that US News &
World Report noted correspondence from Handgun Control, Inc., in
which HCI conceded that NRA is winning the PR battle.  

     NRA is the American family committed to safety,
responsibility and freedom, but families win battles by sticking
together.  And we win with safety programs like "Refuse to Be A
Victim."  We win with responsibility programs like CrimeStrike. 
Above all we win when we convince Americans that they can be safe
when they have the freedom to protect themselves.  We have been
winning, we will continue to win with skill, smarts and strategy. 

     The winter NRA Board meeting will occur February 8 and
February 9 at the Key Bridge Marriott, 1401 Lee Highway,
Arlington, Virginia.  NRA members have always been welcomed at
meetings of the NRA Board of Directors.

ARIZONA: H 2218, an NRA-supported bill that requires Arizona to
recognize out of state permits held by non-residents (if the
permit is issued by a state which, in turn, recognizes Arizona
permit holders) has been referred to the House Committee on the
Judiciary, as well as the House Committee on Government Reform
and States' Rights. Members: Please begin calling your State
Representatives and urging them to support H 2218.

GEORGIA: SB 8, NRA-supported range protection legislation was
reported out of the Public Safety Committee on Tuesday. SB 8,
which protects shooting ranges against noise ordinances or
nuisance action aimed at closing them down, now goes to the full
Senate for consideration. Members: Please contact your State
Senators and urge them to support SB 8. 

KANSAS: HB 2159, NRA-backed right to carry legislation has been
introduced.  Kansas is currently one of only seven states that
does not have a law on the books allowing honest citizens to
carry firearm concealed for self-defense. Members: Please begin
calling your State Senators, Representatives, as well as Governor
Graves, urging them to support HB 2159. 

NEBRASKA: On Thursday, Feb. 6, the Judiciary Committee will hold
critical hearings on two NRA-supported bills: LB 465, Right to
Carry and LB 350, Shooting Range Protection. The committee will
also consider LB 110, legislation which essentially mandates how
you store your firearms in your home.  LB 110 is just another
example of big government and which ignores the real answer to
reducing firearms accidents: EDUCATION. Members: Please attend
the hearing, which will be held at 1:30 p.m. in room 1113 at the
State Capitol in Lincoln. If you can not attend, please call your
Senators and urge them to support LB 465 & LB 350 and oppose LB
110. 

WISCONSIN: The proposed Right to Keep and Bear Arms Amendment
passed the Assembly overwhelming Tuesday.  The Amendment passed
both houses of the legislature last session and needs to be
approved by both chambers this session before it may be placed on
the ballot for voter approval.  The measure, which must be
approved before Feb. 18 to be placed on the Apr. 1 ballot, now
heads to the Senate. Members: Please call your State Senators and
urge them to vote for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms Amendment
prior to the Feb. 18 deadline.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.865FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 09 1997 10:06124
February 4, 1997                             For More Information
                                               Call (703)267-3820

             NRA State of the Union Viewers' Guide
                                
                  THE CRIME DECLINE WHODUNIT  

Before the President's State of the Union Address tonight, NRA's
Tanya K. Metaksa said, "Credit for the crime decline goes to
dozens of governors and countless law enforcement officers -- as
pro-self-defense as they are pro- criminal justice reform. 
Responsibility for the crime decline does not lie with a single
anti-gun Bill."

MILLIONS SQUANDERED?

"President Clinton has failed to account for $200 million given
by the Congress to implement Instant Check for gun purchasers
through the upgrade and automation of criminal history records. 
President Clinton has refused to respond to Freedom of
Information Act requests asking, where's the money?  President
Clinton gave himself 5 years and 200 million dollars to implement
what Virginia implemented in 8 months with a half-million
dollars."

THE WAIT'S OVER NEXT YEAR.  MAYBE NEXT WEEK.

"According to the Brady Act itself, the waiting period evolves
into the Instant Check in 1998.  Maybe a lot sooner.  The U.S.
Supreme Court may strike down the entire Act this month and
require immediate implementation of the Check.  But more's at
stake than just a check at gun stores.  The records used for the
Instant Check -- which the Clinton Administration has failed to
upgrade -- are the same records police rely on during routine
traffic stops. President Clinton is playing politics with a
public safety imperative -- namely, the upgrading and automating
of criminal history records."

GUN CONTROL A RESPONSE TO FEAR, NOT AN ANSWER TO CRIME.

In The Journal of Criminal Law and Criminology (Fall 1995), New
York University professors James B. Jacobs and Kimberley A.
Potter observe: "It is hard to see the Brady law, heralded by
many politicians, the media, and Handgun Control, Inc. as an
important step toward keeping handguns out of the hands of
dangerous and irresponsible persons, as anything more than a sop
to the widespread fear of crime."

COSMETICS & CRIME.

Regarding the Clinton Gun Ban, Mrs. Metaksa said, "it is absurd
for anyone to argue that crime is eased by banning certain
inconsequential external parts on a bogus category of firearms
least used in crime."

RIGHT TO CARRY.  CRIMINALS FEAR GETTING HURT.

Crime rates declined in states with Right to Carry.  Florida's
handgun homicide rate has declined 41%, for example, since the
law was enacted.  Observed Mrs. Metaksa: "Self-defense opponents
used to argue that carry laws increase crime a lot.  Recent
scholarship has reduced them to arguing that Right to Carry
decreases crime, but only a little.  The facts are, Right to
Carry is the law in the majority of the USA -- 31 states -- where
it works to given honest citizens an honest chance against crime. 
In 31 states, law-abiding citizens are consistently outperforming
their critics." 

SARAH BRADY: BRADY BILL INEFFECTIVE.

Even Sarah Brady took note of gun control's ineffectiveness,
cautioning Washingtonian Magazine in 1991 that the Brady Act
waiting period "is not going to stop crimes of passion or drug-
related crimes." 

                        -- OTHER VOICES --

NO SIMPLE ANSWER.

"[A]nybody who says there's a simple or complete answer [to the
crime decline] is either lying to you or to themselves.  That
includes the claims of Sheriff Wild Bill Clinton that he done
rode them varmints outta town on a rail ... [A] University of
Chicago study found recently that the Brady Bill was about as
effective as 'The Brady Bunch' in preventing crime."  
     Source:  Science Reporter Michael Fumento, Washington Times,
     January 26, 1997

THE ANSWER CAN'T BE THE BRADY ACT.

"[F]ederal prosecutors in the first 15 months of [the Brady Act]
locked away only three people....  A General Accounting Office
report noted, 'None of the prosecutions involved prospective gun
purchasers with previous convictions for violent offenses.'"  
     Source: James Bovard, Washington Times, October 9, 1996

BUT PART OF THE ANSWER IS TOUGH SENTENCING.

"Sentencing policies that keep violent and repeat criminals
behind bars cut crime."   
     Source: John J. DiIulio, Jr., Wall Street Journal, September
     6, 1995

AND PART OF THE ANSWER IS COMMISSIONER BILL, NOT PRESIDENT BILL.  

"The clearest way to argue for federal modesty in dealing with
crime is to point out that where we're seeing dramatic success
it's the result of local initiative.  New York's new policing,
designed by Commissioner William Bratton ... has reduced crime so
remarkably that much of the national turnaround is attributable
to this alone.... None of this [crime decline] is the result of
the president's temporary new cops, nor of the Brady Act (for
most guns were never bought by youth from licensed gun dealers)
.."  
     Source: Philip Heymann, Washington Post, January 13, 1997

             -- the nra: people protecting freedom --

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.866FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 09 1997 10:06127
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly

             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No. 5                                    February 4, 1997

Thief A Poster Boy No More

     Pizza thief and five-time felon Jerry Dewayne Williams, 30,
the poster boy for opponents of California's Three Strikes and
You're Out law, which passed in 1994 with 72% voter approval, had
his 25 years to life sentence reduced in Los Angeles Superior
Court last week.

     Making use of a State Supreme Court ruling last summer that
permits the dismissal of prior strikes at judicial discretion,
Judge Donald F. Pitts threw out one of Williams' convictions and
assessed a two-strikes sentence that still effectively doubled
the penalty for his crime.  He  will remain in prison until about
March 1999. 

     At Williams' hearing, Dep. DA Bill Gravlin unfolded a copy
of his "rap sheet" that reached from his outstretched arm to the
floor.  "This case is not about stealing a single slice of
pizza," Gravlin told the court.  "It is about recidivism and how
society deals with it."  He called  Williams, who has a record of
13 arrests that included burglary, robbery, attempted robbery and
drug charges, an unrepentant repeat offender.

     Meanwhile, Atty. Gen. Dan Lungren last week credited
California's three strikes law, tougher sentencing laws, more
prisons and increasing community policing for a 12% decline in
the state's major crime for the first nine months of 1996.

Paroled Kidnaper Does It Again

     A convicted kidnaper and armed robber released in June after
serving 7 1/2 years in a Maryland prison -- 1/4 of his sentence --
was rearrested last week after allegedly stealing a car with a
six-month-old infant inside.  He later abandoned the child 15
miles away in the District of Columbia.

     Charged with abduction, kidnaping and auto theft was Melvin
Leroy Griffin, 35, with a record of 10 arrests since 1978.  He
had been sentenced to 30 years in prison in a 1989 armed robbery,
assault and kidnapping, with 15 years suspended.  Judge Audrey E.
Melbourne ordered Griffin released on parole last June.     

     Prince George's County Police Chief John S. Farrell, who has
been outspoken against Maryland's early releases of violent
criminals, told the Washington Post that such cases are "a
serious recurring problem with the justice system."

ABA Differs With DOJ And American Public On The Death Penalty

     Even though criminal executions declined 20% in 1996, even
though the U.S. Dept. of Justice will seek the death penalty for
those charged in the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995 that killed
168 men, women and children, and even though Gallup reported 77%
of Americans favor capital punishment for murder, on Monday the
American Bar Ass'n voted 280-119 in favor of a de facto
moratorium on capital punishment.  

     The nation's leading organization of lawyers will make
halting capital punishment the focus of its lobbying effort in
Congress and state legislatures, according to press reports. 

      Of the more than 5,000 criminals sent to the nation's death
rows since the death penalty was reinstated in 1976, just 358
have been executed.

N.Y.'s Vacco Seeks Limit On Frivolous Inmate Lawsuits

     New York Atty. Gen. Dennis C. Vacco, who faced 7,700 inmate
lawsuits last year, has renewed efforts to reduce the flood that
now claims a third of his defense caseload.

     Vacco's plan calls for a $50 filing fee (waived if
indigent), exhaustion of administrative remedies before filing,
and sanctions against inmates who file frivolous suits, measures
similar to those in last year's federal PLRA.

     Four of the cases filed against New York and featured on AG
Vacco's "Top 5 Frivolous Lawsuits" were:

     * Thomas Higgins, who sodomized and murdered two children in
     a botched burglary, sued over a broken laundry machine
     claiming a constitutional right to clean clothing and
     blankets.  But he'll settle for $10,000 in cash.

     * Francis Hugh Smith, who skipped out on a work release job
     and was returned to prison, sued for $10 million claiming
     faulty medical care was to blame for the "amnesia" that
     caused him to "forget" to return to custody.

     * Anthony Malloy, a Brooklyn burglar, who sued for $989
     "billion trillion" because guards allegedly used excessive
     force against his jacket.  However, he wasn't wearing the
     jacket at the time.

     * Anthony Gill wants $4.275 million for health problems he
     says were caused by second-hand smoke. Gill, however, buys
     cigarettes at the prison commissary.

Gov. Bush Signs Stalking Bill

     Texas Gov. George W. Bush signed into law new stalking
legislation on January 28, less than 24 hours after the senate
completed work on Senate Bill 95.  Bush and legislative leaders
had promised fast action in revising the state's stalking law
struck down last year as too vague by the Texas Court of Criminal
Appeals.

                 A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
      Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available. 

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.867FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 09 1997 10:06101
February 7, 1997

                  SPECIAL KANSAS CALL TO ACTION:
                  "RIGHT TO CARRY" ON THE MOVE 
                      IN STATE LEGISLATURE!
               CALL YOUR LAWMAKERS IN TOPEKA TODAY 
          AND URGE THEM TO SUPPORT YOUR "RIGHT TO CARRY"

     "Right to carry" legislation is on the move in the State
Capitol.  Legislation has been introduced in both the House and
Senate that would guarantee your right as a law-abiding Kansas to
carry a firearm for defense of yourself and your loved ones.  HB
2159, introduced in the House by Rep. Gary Hayzlett, and SB 21,
introduced in the Senate by Sen. Janice Hardenburger, would
require that permits to carry be issued to any law-abiding
citizen who passed a background check and completed a firearms
training course.  

     However, anti-gunners in Topeka are using every trick in the
book to see that neither of these critical measures ever makes
it to the Governor's desk.  In a move that demonstrates just how
far these extremists are willing to go to deny you of your rights
as a law-abiding citizen, anti-gun Sen. Rich Becker has
introduced SR 1606, an amendment to the state constitution that
would bar citizens like you from ever exercising your "right to
carry."

     This Monday and Tuesday (2/10, 2/11) the House Federal &
State Affairs Committees will consider HB 2159, while the Senate
Federal & State Affairs Committee will consider both SB 21 and
the anti-gun SR 1606. It is critical that you let your lawmakers
in Topeka know that you support the right to carry and oppose the
anti-gun extremists who want to change our state constitution. 

     Please contact the members the Federal & State Affairs
Committees and urge them to support HB 2159 and SB 21.  Tell them
you oppose any constitutional amendment that would prohibit you
from exercising your right to self-defense.

House Federal and State Affairs Committee

Rep. Garry Boston - Newton (913) 296-7692, 
Rep. Ray Cox - Bonner Springs (913) 296-7659
Rep. John Ballou  - Gardner (913) 296-7671
Rep. Marti Crow - Leavenworth (913) 296-7673 
Rep. Don Dahl - Hillsboro (913) 296-7659
Rep. John Faber  - Brewster (913) 296-7646
Rep. Troy Findley - Lawrence (913) 296-7650
Rep. Cliff Franklin - Merriam (913) 296-7639
Rep. Ruby Gilbert - Wichita (913) 296-7687
Rep. Bob Grant - Cherokee (913) 296-7656
Rep. Thomas Klein - Wichita (913) 296-7675  
Rep. Annie Kuether - Topeka (913) 296-7669
Rep. Steve Lloyd  - Clay Center (913) 296-7645
Rep. Peggy Long - Hamilton (913) 296-7667
Rep. William Mason  - El Dorado (913) 296-7636
Rep. Doug Mays - Topeka (913) 296-7668
Rep. Edward Pugh - Wamego (913) 296-7672
Rep. Candy Ruff  - Leavenworth (913) 296-7658
Rep. Ellen Samuelson - Newton (913) 296-7652
Rep. Bonnie Sharp - Kansas City (913) 296-7680
Rep. Dale Swenson - Wichita (913) 296-7683
Rep. Jene Vickrey - Louisburg (913) 296-7653
Rep. Galen Weiland - Bendena (913) 296-7688  

Senate Federal and State Affairs Committee

Sen. Lana Oleen - Manhattan (913) 296-7360, Chair
Sen. Nancey Harrington - Clearwater (913) 296-7367
Sen. Rich Becker - Lenexa (913) 296-7382
Sen. Donald Biggs - Leavenworth (913) 296-7372
Sen. Laurie Bleeker - Great Bend (913) 296-7394
Sen. Rip Gooch - Wichita (913) 296-7387
Sen. Sherman Jones - Kansas City (913) 296-7376
Sen. Keith Schraad - Overland Park (913) 296-7361
Sen. Ben Vidricksen - Salina (913) 296-7390

*****************************************************************
        PLEASE CALL GOV. BILL GRAVES AT (913) 296-3232 AND
              URGE HIM TO SUPPORT HB 2159 and SB 21
*****************************************************************

Please try to attend one or both of these hearings:

           2/10/97 House hearing on HB 2159  - 1:30 pm.
                     State Capitol, room 519.

        2/10/97 Senate hearing on SB 21 - 11 am and 1 pm.
            Old Supreme Court Chamber, State Capitol.

*****************************************************************

       KANSAS IS ONLY 1 of 7 STATES THAT DENY ITS CITIZENS
          THE RIGHT TO CARRY A FIREARM FOR SELF-DEFENSE

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.868FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 09 1997 10:06108
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 6                                              2/7/97

            STATE OF THE UNION - STATE OF OUR FREEDOMS

     On Tuesday evening, President Clinton delivered his first
"State of the Union" address of his second and final term.  While
education, welfare and national security dominated the
President's speech, Mr. Clinton couldn't resist paying homage to
Jim and Sarah Brady by calling for additional restrictions on our
rights.  After taking undeserved credit for a drop in the crime
rate, the President returned to his tired, old support for more
gun control laws.  At the top of his wish list was an expansion
of the Brady Act to prevent teenage criminals from obtaining
firearms.  Is the President not aware that federal law prohibits
the purchase of a handgun by individuals younger than 21?  The
President also failed to mention how he spent the $200 million
that was allocated to upgrade the national criminal records
system to ensure the phasing out of the Brady Act's five day
wait, as is required by the same law.  President Clinton also
called for a national "trigger lock" law requiring personally
owned handguns to be stored with these mechanical devices.  Not
only is the President turning a blind eye to the facts that
firearms, mostly handguns, are used more than 2.5 million times
annually for self-defense (and "trigger locks" would render them
useless for self-protection) and that the fatal firearms
accidental death rate is at an all-time low, but one has to
wonder how such a law could be enforced without compromising
American citizens' Fourth Amendment protection against
unreasonable searches.  As usual, the President's speech raised
far more questions than it answered.

DON'T HOLD YOUR BREATH, IRS

In 1995, after the NRA was instrumental in removing a number of
pro-Clinton/pro-gun control lawmakers from Congress, the IRS
"coincidentally" launched a Coordinated Examination Program (CEP)
against the NRA -- a far-reaching tax audit that lasts years.  In
addition to the incredible cost the Association has already
incurred to accommodate the CEP, the IRS recently requested that
NRA turn over its confidential membership lists.  The agency was
informed in no uncertain terms this wasn't going to happen, and
if necessary, we'd go to court to protect our lists.  Is there a
pattern of whom the IRS tends to scrutinize?  Well, a Washington
Times story (2/3/97) notes that NRA is "one of about a dozen
conservative groups that the IRS has chosen to audit since 1994." 
All of these 12 groups have opposed various policies of the
Clinton-Gore Administration.

NOTABLE QUOTABLE

Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia on the Second Amendment: "It
would... be strange to find in the midst of a catalog of the
rights of individuals a provision securing to the states the
right to maintain a designated  Militia' -- and to find that
purely institutional guarantee accorded a position of great
prominence immediately following freedom of religion and freedom
of speech." (Italics in original) (A Matter of Interpretation:
Federal Courts and the Law, Princeton University Press, 1997, 159
pages.)

A LOOK AT THE STATES

Alaska: SB 8, an NRA-backed range protection bill, is expected to
be considered by the full Senate next week.  SB 8 would protect
shooting ranges against noise ordinances or nuisance action aimed
at closing them down. Members: Please call your State Senators
and urge them to support SB 8.

Indiana: Early next week, the full House will consider HB 1680,
mandatory storage legislation, that would dictate how you store
personally-owned firearms in your own home. Members: Please
contact your State Representatives today at (317) 232-9600 and
urge them to oppose HB 1680.

Pennsylvania:  On Tuesday, February 11, Josh Sugarmann, executive
director of the Violence Policy Center (VPC), will be speaking at
Mercyhurst College in Erie, Pennsylvania.  The VPC is known for
its support for handgun bans and its opposition to "right to
carry" laws.  The engagement will be held at Mercyhurst College's
Taylor Little Theater at 7:30 p.m. and admission is FREE.  Area
members are encouraged to attend the event and participate in the
questions and answers portion of the presentation.

GOVERNORS SUPPORT VICTIMS' RIGHTS:  At their annual meeting this
week, the National Governors' Association (NGA) approved a
constitutional victims' rights amendment without dissent.  The
amendment approved by the NGA ensures victims:  will know when
their assailants are going to trial or are up for parole; will
receive full restitution from an offender; and will be able to
testify about the impact the crime has had on their lives.  Any
proposed amendment to the U.S. Constitution requires a two-thirds
majority in both houses of Congress and must be ratified by
three-fourths of the state legislatures.  NRA CrimeStrike has
long been a supporter of victims' rights amendments to state
constitutions, and applauds the NGA's action.  Currently, 29
states have a victims' rights amendment, and NRA CrimeStrike will
continue to push these amendments in those states that lack them.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.869FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 16 1997 17:5749
February 2, 1997

Virginia

               ATTENTION LOUDOUN COUNTY SPORTSMEN!

             ACT NOW TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHT TO HUNT!

On Tuesday, February 11, Supervisor David McWatters will present
his plan to restrict your hunting rights to the Public Safety
Committee of the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors.  McWatters
and other opponents of your right to hunt want to ban hunting in
certain parts of the county.  If they get their way, it will mean
the end of our county's hunting heritage and the beginning of
Fairfax-style restrictions on you and your fellow sportsmen.  We
must take action now to stop them in their tracks!  Here's what
you can do to protect your rights:

     * CALL SUPERVISOR McWATTERS and tell him that you oppose any
     new restrictions on your rights.  You can reach him at (703)
     777-0204.

     * SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR OUR COUNTY'S HUNTING HERITAGE. 
     Attend the Public Safety Committee's meeting on Tuesday,
     February 11, 1997, at 5:30 p.m in the Loudoun County
     Government Center on Harrison Street in Leesburg.  Call
     (703) 777-0204 for more information.

     * CONTACT YOUR COUNTY SUPERVISOR and let him or her know
     that you support the rights of Loudoun County sportsmen and
     oppose any new restrictions on hunting.  Write your
     supervisor at 1 Harrison Street, P.O. Box 7000, Leesburg,
     Va.  20177, or call the Board of Supervisors' hotline at
     (703) 777-0115.  You can also send your message by fax to
     (703) 777-0421.

     * SPREAD THE WORD! While you may know what's going on, many
     others do not.  Pass this information on to your family,
     friends, and fellow sportsmen and urge them to get involved
     today!

          PROTECT LOUDOUN'S HERITAGE. PROTECT HUNTING.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.870FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 16 1997 17:5738
February 10, 1997

CALIFORNIA LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITY

They're back!  On Friday, January 3, the California State
Legislature reconvened and it appears there will be a record
number of anti-gun bills introduced.  Friday, February 28, is the
deadline to introduce bills, so we won't have a complete picture
until the first week of March.  

SB 146 (JOHNSTON): This bill would prohibit a police chief from
issuing a permit to carry concealed handguns to a non-resident of
the city over which the police chief presides.  Current law
allows chiefs to issue permits to  residents of an entire county
in which the city is located.  SB 146 is aimed at Isleton Police
Chief, Eugene Byrd, a strong supporter of "Right to Carry".

AB 131 (ORTIZ): A bill that would require reporting the loss or
theft of a handgun to the authorities within 24 hours.  Violation
would constitute an infraction.  More on this later...

AB 136 (VILLARAIGOSA): An NRA-opposed bill that would repeal
statewide firearms preemption. If passed this would prove
disasterous for gun owners as it would open the door to a 
"patchwork quilt" of local gun control laws. .

ON A BRIGHTER NOTE: Assemblyman Rod Wright (D-48) has introduced
Assembly Concurrent Resolution 3, that encourages the California
State Department of Education to promote the use of NRA's award
winning Eddie Eagle Gun Safety Program. Committee hearings on ACR
3 are tentatively scheduled for the first week of March.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.871FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 16 1997 17:57134
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly

             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No. 6                                   February 11, 1997

WA Cop Killer Denied Clemency

     Clemency has been denied for a Washington state cop killer
whose release NRA CrimeStrike helped oppose in late December at
the request of the dead officer's family. The State Board of
Clemency had rejected convicted killer Lonnie Link's request by a
3-2 vote, and Gov. Mike Lowry did not approve clemency before
leaving office Jan. 14.

     Link was convicted of aggravated first-degree murder of
Spokane Police Det. Brian Orchard, a 15-year police veteran,  in
1983.  Det. Orchard was participating in a stakeout to foil an
extortion plot involving a stolen gun collection at the time he
was murdered.  Link was sentenced to life without parole in the
killing.  

Expunging Spouse-Abuse Case Triggers Outrage At MD Judge 

     A Maryland judge who earlier expunged a Baltimore man's
domestic abuse conviction dramatically reversed himself Monday,
four days after the revelation on page one of the Baltimore Sun
brought down thunderous outrage from the women's state
legislative caucus and other politicians.

     Circuit Court Judge Thomas J. Bollinger Sr. on Jan. 31
erased Baltimore pawnbroker Charles H. Weiner's 1995 battery
conviction for severely beating and injuring his estranged wife. 
Weiner's attorney told the court his client wanted to clear his
record, at least in part so he could join a country club.

     When the news of Judge Bollinger's action hit the newspaper
last week, response was immediate and angry.

     Yesterday, Bollinger nullified his order that had changed
Weiner's conviction to "probation before judgement" and he
volunteered to disqualify himself from future cases involving
sexual offenses or domestic violence.

     That offer, in a letter to the county's administrative
judge, isn't likely to mollify his critics.  The state women's
legislative caucus had already agreed to request an investigation
by the State Commission on Judicial  Disabilities, and members
were talking about demanding a resignation.

      The incident was the second to cast Judge Bollinger into
unwanted public glare.  He was reprimanded by the same commission 
in 1994 after he said an 18-year-old woman, unconscious from
drinking, "facilitated" her rape by her 44-year-old boss.  The
judge was ordered to take a training program promoting
sensitivity toward victims of sexual assault.

Virginia Wins Court Victory In Student Discipline Issue

     Virginia's right to refuse to provide alternative education
to special education students  expelled or suspended for
disciplinary reasons, including some who brought weapons into
schools, was upheld by the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on
an 11-2 decision last week.

     The victory for Gov. George Allen and Atty. Gen. James
Gilmore III means the U.S. Dept. of Education can't deny the
Virginia some $60 million annually in federal special-education
grants. 

     Six of the judges in the majority called government
withholding of the funds "impermissible coercion" against states'
rights under the 10th amendment, said press reports.

     The ruling overturns an earlier 2-1 decision by a three-
judge panel that held the state was obligated to educate expelled
students.  Virginia officials, who first challenged the 
federal government over the issue in 1994,  then appealed to the
full appeals court located in Richmond.

     "This decision recognizes the rights of Virginia and 
other states to discipline students for dangerous behavior," Gov.
Allen said of the ruling.  Said Atty. Gen. Gilmore,  "If teachers
cannot maintain order in our classrooms, it is our children who
ultimately suffer. The federal policy was unfair to teachers,
students and parents."

     Virginia had the backing of the National School Boards
Ass'n, both major national teachers unions, elementary and
secondary principals associations, and other major  educational
groups.

Virginia Executes Second Killer Who Killed Again After Parole

     For the second time in less than two months, Virginia has
executed a criminal who killed again after being paroled from
prison after an earlier conviction.  Michael Carl George, 39,
died Feb. 6 for the brutal 1990 torture and murder of a 15-
year-old Woodbridge boy.

     George had served just two years in prison before being
released on mandatory parole for manslaughter and abduction
convictions in the disappearance of an 8-year-old Virginia boy
back in 1979.  Unable to find the child's body, prosecutors had
to settle for the plea bargain.

     Virginia also executed double-killer Lem Tuggle on Dec. 12.
Tuggle had been sentenced to death in the murder of a 17-year-old
woman in 1971, but still won parole in 1983. Three months later
he killed a second woman, was arrested, convicted and again given
a death sentence that took 13 years to carry out.  Virginia has
since eliminated parole.

     In a 1995 report on 156,000 parolees returned to prison, a
Bureau of Justice Statistics study found that those parolees had
committed at least 6,800 murders, 5,500 rapes, 8,800 assaults and
22,500 robberies while on parole an average of 13 months.  Those
numbers were based on actual convictions that returned the
criminals to prison.

                 A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
     Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org.
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.872FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 16 1997 17:5860
February 14, 1997

The following correspondence was mailed to Virginia state
legislators this week.

NRA-ILA
----------------------

                       February 10, 1997

Dear Virginia Legislator:

     On behalf of the nearly 80,000 members of the National Rifle
Association residing in the Commonwealth of Virginia, I urge you
to oppose the reappointment of Judge James Berry to the Circuit
Court of Clark and Frederick Counties.

     Rarely does NRA become involved in matters such as this. 
However, Judge Berry's conduct in recent years toward the
citizens of this Commonwealth has been so egregious that we can
no longer remain silent.  In particular, Judge Berry has
demonstrated a complete disregard for the rights of law-abiding
Virginians to be issued permits to carry concealed weapons as
specified under sec. 18.2-308 of the Virginia Code.

     Our office has been overwhelmed with complaints from
citizens in Clark and Frederick Counties whose concealed weapons
permits have been denied or delayed without cause by 
Judge Berry.  In fact, it appears Judge Berry has denied more
permits than any other judge in this Commonwealth.  Such denials
and delays by Judge Berry are in direct violation of sec. 18.2-308,
which clearly states that "the court shall issue the permit
within forty-five days of receipt of the completed application
unless it appears that the applicant is disqualified..."  The
applicants to whom Judge Berry has refused or delayed issuance of
permits have not been criminals, but rather law-abiding
Virginians with absolutely nothing on their records to suggest
that they were disqualified from obtaining a concealed weapons
permit.

      Judge Berry's refusal to comply with the laws of this
Commonwealth as set forth in the Code of Virginia makes him unfit
to serve on the Circuit Court.  Furthermore, his actions have
endangered the safety of the citizens of Virginia and caused
undue expense and duress to those whose permit applications have
been rejected by his court.  Therefore, I respectfully urge you
to oppose Judge Berry's reappointment to the Circuit Court. 
Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Tanya K. Metaksa
Executive Director    

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.873FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 16 1997 17:58136
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA 22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 7                                             2/14/97

           NRA'S WINTER BOARD MEETINGS COME TO A CLOSE

     Early in the morning of February 10, the NRA's winter Board
of Directors meetings ended with no changes in the Association's
bylaws or current leadership.  After heated debate, a vote to
amend the NRA's bylaws to allow the Board's Executive Committee
to suspend NRA officers by a simple majority, rather than by a
three-fourths vote, failed to gain the two-thirds majority needed
under the laws of New York (where the Association is chartered). 
Furthermore, a majority of Board members supported the
Association's legal counsel in his interpretation of the two-
thirds provision.  Consideration of other bylaw changes was
postponed until the next meeting.  The Board also unanimously
approved several resolutions on legislative issues, including one
in favor of state right-to-carry legislation and others
reaffirming the Board's opposition to anti-gun legislation --
including firearms registration and the extension of the Brady
Act's waiting period.  The meetings, conducted mainly in open
session, were attended by a large number of journalists and by
NRA members from several states.  The NRA Board will next meet in
Seattle on May 5-6, following the election of new Directors and
the Annual Meeting of Members.

STONEWALLING AT CDC:  On Thursday, the House Labor, Health and
Human Services Appropriations Subcommittee questioned Dr. Mark
Rosenberg, head of the CDC's National Center for Injury
Prevention & Control, the agency that has used your tax dollars
to fund anti-gun "studies."  Dr. Rosenberg was asked why Dr.
Arthur Kellermann, a CDC grant recipient for many such "studies,"
failed to conform to the Center's policy requiring all CDC-funded
research data to be shared externally for review by his peers.
Dr. Rosenberg said Kellermann was in the process of "cleaning up
his data" (but he didn't mention that Kellermann's conclusions
were already released two years ago!).  That drew a sarcastic
question by Rep. Jay Dickey (R-Ark.), who asked whether "cleaning
up his data" was tantamount to "sanitizing" his data.  Despite
assurances the situation would be rectified, Rosenberg couldn't
give a date for the data's release.

MIAMI MALFEASANCE:  NBC's Feb. 12 broadcast of "News at Sunrise"
contained a salvo fired at the NRA by Miami Mayor Alex Penelas. 
In response to recent shootings in his city, the Mayor said he'd
seek local gun control laws in Dade County, and he didn't "care
what the NRA says."  Apparently, the Mayor doesn't care what
Florida law says either, as Florida currently has a firearms
preemption statute prohibiting local governments from enacting
their own gun control laws.  According to the report, Miami
police have already set up roadblocks to search for firearms. 
Chief Donald Warshaw noted, "We are going to make life
uncomfortable for people who have guns."  One would hope the
city's top law enforcement officer would distinguish between
those "who have guns" and those who have guns illegally.

A LOOK AT THE STATES:

Georgia: SB 8, NRA-backed range protection has passed the Senate,
and now heads to the House.  Please call your State Reps. in
support of SB 8. Iowa: HF 142, an NRA-supported bill to allow
deer hunting with a handgun, was reported out of the House Cmte.
on Natural Resources.  HF 142 will be considered by the full
House early next week.  Please call your State Reps. and urge
them to support HF 142.

Kansas: On Sunday, February 16th, talk radio station WIBW, 580 AM
in Topeka, will air a two hour show on right-to-carry legislation
in Kansas.  Appearing in support of right-to-carry will be Jan
Exby, founder of the Kansas City chapter of Safety for Women and
Responsible Motherhood (SWARM), and local law enforcement
officials.  The show will air from 6-8 p.m.  Please call this
show and express your support for right-to-carry.  In Topeka the
number is 913-272-9429, from other parts of Kansas, call
800-272-9429. 

Mississippi: HB 33, an NRA-backed right to carry reform bill has
passed in the House.  It reduces the processing time for issuing
permits, and establishes reciprocal licensing provisions for
nonresidents.  The bill now goes to the Senate. Please call your
State Sens. and encourage them to co-sponsor HB 33.  

New Mexico: On Friday, Feb. 21, the Senate Public Affairs Cmte.
will hold a hearing on SB 676, NRA-backed right to carry
legislation.  Please attend the hearing at 2:00 p.m. in Room 303
of the State Capitol in Santa Fe, and contact your State Sens. in
support of SB 676. 

Ohio: HB 60, a measure establishing Sunday hunting, is pending in
the House Cmte. on Agriculture & Natural Resources.  Also, HB
209, NRA-supported range protection legislation has been
introduced in the House Cmte. on Local Government and Townships. 
HB 209 would protect shooting ranges from noise ordinances or
nuisance actions aimed at shutting them down.  Please call your
State Reps. and urge them to support both HB 620 & HB 209. 

Rhode Island: H 6085, a comprehensive gun control package
supported by the Governor, was introduced this week.  The package
includes an end to private transfers of firearms, creates a new
gun bureaucracy within the R.I. State Police and outlaws the
purchase of more than one gun a month.  Please call your
legislators and Governor Almond and urge them to oppose H 6085.  

Texas: On Tuesday, February 18, the Senate Criminal Justice Cmte.
will hear SB 204, NRA-backed right to carry reform legislation,
at 9:00 a.m. in Room E1.012 of the Capitol Extension in Austin. 
SB 204 rolls back restrictions on where license holders can
lawfully carry, ends local regulation of licensees and
establishes reciprocal licensing provisions for non-residents. 
Also on Tuesday, the House Civil Practices Cmte. will hear HB
601, NRA-backed shooting range protection legislation, at 4:00
p.m. in Room E2.140.  Please call your lawmakers in support of
these bills. 

Virginia:  The Legislature will soon consider the reappointment
of Circuit Court Judge James Berry, one of the most anti-gun
judges in the state.  He unnecessarily delayed and denied the
issuance of hundreds of carry permits to qualified, law-abiding
citizens.  Members: Please call and leave a message for your
state legislators at 1-800-889-0229 and urge them to oppose the
reappointment of Judge James Berry.

OUR SYMPATHIES:  NRA would like to extend its deepest sympathies
over the passing of long time pro-gunner U.S. Rep. Frank Tejeda
(D-Tex.).  A true Second Amendment champion, Rep. Tejeda will be
deeply missed.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.874FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 23 1997 21:1440
February 19, 1997

CALIFORNIA LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITY

PROPOSED LAND GRAB THREATENS HUNTERS AND SPORTSMEN: The Bureau of
Land Management is holding a series of public hearings this month
to discuss the U.S. Army's proposal to expand the National
Training Center at Fort Irwin by withdrawing over 300,000 acres
of public land.  Currently, a large portion of this land is used
by hunters and recreational shooters.  It is critical that
hunters and sportsmen attend one of the following hearings to
express their concern:

February 18, 7:00 pm
Barstow City Hall
City Council Chambers
220 East Mountainview Ave.
Barstow, CA 

February 20, 2:00 pm
Baker Community Center
Baker Boulevard
Baker, CA 

February 24, 2:00 & 7:00 pm
Sacramento City Hall
City Council Chambers
915 "I" Street
Sacramento, CA
                                
For additional information, please contact NRA's Sacramento
Office at (916) 446-2455 or NRA Volunteer Paul Payne at (909)
785-5216. 

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.875FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 23 1997 21:1480
February 18, 1997

The following is Congressional correspondence regarding the
proposed Bureau of Land Management (BLM) law enforcement
regulation rewrite.

========================

                   Congress of the United States
                     House of Representatives
                    Washington, DC  20515-5001

January 29, 1997

The Honorable James V. Hansen
Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Land
Chairman
H1-814 O'Neill HOB
Washington, D.C. 20515

Dear Mr. Chairman:

We write to ask that you consider scheduling hearings regarding
the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) proposed rule on changes in
the agency's criminal and civil law enforcement operations
published in the November 7, 1996, Federal Register.

The proposed provisions give us and many others reason for
concern.  First, we question the BLM's authority to implement all
of the law enforcement changes that they are proposing.  These
are serious actions that need serious consideration.  We believe
it may be appropriate for hearings to be held so we all can
completely understand the implications of the proposed
modifications.

Secondly, the Clinton Administration has been preaching over the
last four years that the era of big government is over - but we
are concerned that sermon has not yet reached the BLM, it
certainly does not fall within the realm of shrinking the size
and scope of the federal government.  We remain dedicated to that
task and hope you do as well.

Thank you in advance for your consideration of our request.  We
anxiously await your reply.

Sincerely,

(Signed)                                (Signed)
Barbara Cubin, M.C.                     Bob Smith, M.C.

(Signed)                                (Signed)
Joe Skeen, M.C.                         Helen Chenoweth, M.C.

(Signed)                                (Signed)
Jim Gibbons, M.C.                       Chris Cannon, M.C. 

cc: the Honorable Don Young

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org

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6300.876FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Feb 23 1997 21:15130
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly
 
             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No. 7                                   February 18, 1997

Most Convicted Sex Offenders Not In Prison, BJS Study Finds

     As the nation attempts to cope with the problem of sex
offender recidivism with passage of laws that require the
registration of offenders, community notification and other
measures, a major study on those offenders has been published by
the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS).

     The study done for the Justice Dept.  "is the first national
estimate of the size of the convicted sex offenders population
under the jurisdiction of federal, state and local correctional
authorities," BJS says.

     On any given day, the study found, nearly 60% of the
nation's 234,000 convicted sex offenders who were under the care,
custody or control of corrections officials were actually free on
the nation's streets on parole or probation.

     The BJS's "Sex Offenses and Offenders" quantifies some of
the facts about convicted sex offenders.  The study found, for
example, that while 99,300 rapists, child molesters and the like
were in prison or jail, another 134,300 were living in the
community

     BJS says the study is the first attempt to compile a
national estimate of the size of the convicted sex offender
population.  Sex offenders, the study found, represent just 4.7%
of the 5 million convicted offenders under some type of
correctional program.  They constitute nearly 10% of state prison
inmates, however. 

     Among the other findings: about half of rape defendants are
released prior to trial; two-thirds of those convicted receive
prison sentences; the average time served for rape has increased
from about 3+ years to 5 years over the past decade.

     On the other hand, BJS says the latest crime victimization
study found that rape or violent sexual assaults had declined
from one for every 435 residents in 1993 to one for every 624
residents.  Rapes reported to police in 1995 were at the lowest
per-capita rate since 1995.

District Sees Privatization An Answer For Its Prisons

     The District of Columbia, long under fire for the operation
of its corrections system, is rapidly making good on a
privatization program proposed last year by Corrections Director
Margaret Moore.

     The city recently completed the $52 million sale/lease-back
agreement under which Corrections Corporation of America (CCA)
will own and operate the city's five-year-old 898-bed
Correctional Treatment Facility.  

     The city will pay CCA $70.40 a day to house inmates vs. the
$86.65 it currently spends, which translates into a $3.5 million
annual saving, city officials say.  CCA will spend $3.85 million
to repair and upgrade the drug treatment facility.

     Director Moore is also negotiating a $30 million contract
that would transfer 1,500 D.C. prison inmates to a private prison
under construction in Youngstown, Ohio.  That facility will be
operated by CCA, as well.  

     D.C. officials will also consider transferring another 1,500
inmates to still another private facility later this year. The
goal is to reduce crowding at the city's crowded and problem-
plagued Lorton, Va., correctional complex.

NJ Eyes Truth-In-Sentencing; Prison Overcrowding A Barrier

     The New Jersey Assembly's Law and Public Safety Committee
has given unanimous approval to a Truth-In-Sentencing law, the
"No Early Release Act," that will mandate that the state's future
violent crime offenders serve 85% of their sentences.

     But with New Jersey currently operating one of the most
overcrowded prison systems in the nation (more than 20,000
inmates housed in facilities with an estimated capacity of
13,842, plus 4,400 inmates in county jails), passage of Truth In
Sentencing seems certain to force the state to construct
additional facilities.

     While corrections officials say inmates now  serve an
average of 42% of their sentences, legislators say that, with
good time and work credits, they serve less than 33%.

     Passage of a Truth-In-Sentencing law imposing tougher
sentencing on violent criminals is required for state eligibility
for federal prison construction funds.  New Jersey's violent
crime rate ranked it 22nd among the 50 states in 1995, 
according to the FBI's Uniform Crime Report data.

LA Sheriff To Plug Work-Release Leak

     The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Dept., which has lost track
of some 1,500 work-release inmates, is nearing an agreement to
give the county probation department screening authority over
future releases, the Los Angles Times reports.

     In its effort to empty cells to cope with an inmate
population of 35,000 to 40,000 and a jail capacity of about
13,000, the sheriff's office has released "tens of thousands" of
convicted inmates, including many repeat violent offenders,
without regard to their criminal histories, the newspaper says. 

      The sheriff's custody chief said the probation department
has a "tried-and-true process" for evaluating the risks posed by
offenders.     

                 A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
     Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org.
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.877FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Feb 25 1997 10:26110
February 21, 1997

                       SPECIAL KANSAS ALERT

             ANTI-GUNNERS BRING IN JIM BRADY AND HCI 
              TO LOBBY AGAINST YOUR "RIGHT TO CARRY"
          WITH LEGISLATION GAINING MOMENTUM IN TOPEKA, 
              ANTI-GUN SPOKESMAN MAKES SPECIAL TRIP

     Your phone calls are making a difference!  "Right to carry"
legislation is gaining momentum in the State Capitol and the
anti-gunners are getting worried.  This week, Handgun Control
Inc. (HCI) spokesman Jim Brady made a last minute trip to Topeka
to urge our lawmakers to keep Kansas one of only seven states in
the United States that prohibits law-abiding citizens from
carrying a firearm.  Despite the overwhelming evidence that
"right to carry" works, HCI and their lobbyists from Washington,
D.C. just don't think that you can be trusted to carry a firearm
to protect yourself and your loved ones.

     Fortunately, more and more Kansas lawmakers are now
beginning to see through HCI's smokescreen and are coming out in
favor of HB 2159 and SB 21.  But as these bills gain supporters
in the legislature, you can be sure that HCI will soon have its
anti-gun propaganda machine working overtime to stir up the
opposition.  We must keep the pressure on!  It's up to us to make
sure that our undecided lawmakers in Topeka know that the Bradys
and their friends at HCI don't speak for us.

     Please call these key legislators and urge them to secure
your "right to carry" by supporting HB 2159 and SB 21:

Key members of the Senate

Sen. Donald Biggs (913) 296-7372
Sen. Chris Steineger (913) 296-7375
Sen. Keith Schraad (913) 296-7361
Sen. Jim Barone (913) 296-7370
Sen. David Corbin (913) 296-7388
Sen. Alicia Salisbury (913) 296-7374
Sen. Lana Oleen (913) 296-7360
Sen. Barbara Lawrence (913) 296-7386
Sen. Dave Kerr (913) 296-7368
Sen. Don Steffes (913) 296-7354
Sen. Janis Lee (913) 296-7366

Key Members of the House

Rep. Ed McKechnie (913) 296-7699
Rep. Vernon Correll (913) 296-7697
Rep. Richard Reinhardt (913) 296-7697
Rep. Stanley Dreher (913) 296-7632
Rep. Jim Garner (913) 296-7675
Rep. Gerry Ray (913) 296-7646
Rep. Barbara Allen (913) 296-7655
Rep. Sue Storm (913) 296-7650
Rep. Bob Tomlinson (913) 296-7678
Rep. Al Lane (913) 296-7641
Rep. Larry Campbell (913) 296-7644
Rep. David Huff (913) 296-7668
Rep. Bonnie Sharp (913) 296-7680
Rep. David Haley (913) 296-7665
Rep. Jerry Henry (913) 296-7688
Rep. Vaughn Flora (913) 296-7658
Rep. Bruce Larkin (913) 297-7647
Rep. Jeff Peterson (913) 296-7694
Rep. Clark Schultz (913) 296-7646
Rep. Judy Showalter (913) 296-7648
Rep. Joe Shriver (913) 296-7648
Rep. Bill McReary (913) 296-7667
Rep. Jo Ann Portoff (913) 296-7501
Rep. Gwen Welshimer (913) 296-7687
Rep. Douglas Johnston (913) 296-7665
Rep. Geraldine Flaherty (913) 296-7669
Rep. Dennis McKinney (913) 296-7658
Rep. Eber Phelps (913) 296-7669
Rep. Jack Wempe (913) 296-7665
Rep. Ethel Peterson (913) 296-7657
Rep. Laura McClure (913) 296-7680
Rep. Terry Presta (913) 296-7660


        KANSAS IS ONE OF ONLY SEVEN STATES THAT PROHIBIT 
    LAW-ABIDING CITIZENS FROM EXERCISING THEIR RIGHT TO CARRY

      GOVERNOR SAYS HE'S STILL UNDECIDED ON "RIGHT TO CARRY"
                        KEEP UP THE CALLS

      Despite media reports that he would "probably veto" right
to carry legislation if it came to his desk, Governor Bill Graves
maintains that he is still undecided on this issue.

     These latest developments are a good sign that the Governor
is willing to support "right to carry" if the people of Kansas
make it clear they want it.  

          PLEASE CALL GOVERNOR GRAVES AT (913) 296-3232
            AND URGE HIM TO SUPPORT HB 2159 AND SB 21.

     The House and Senate Federal & State Affairs Committees
could vote on HB 2159 and SB 21 at anytime in the next few days. 
We'll keep you posted!

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.878FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Feb 25 1997 10:2656
February 21, 1997

Alaska: SB 8, the NRA-supported range protection bill, is
expected to be considered by the full Senate next week.
Members:Please contact your local Legislative Information Office
and send a Public Opinion Message to your State Senators
encouraging them to support SB 8. 

Arizona: HB 2218, which requires Arizona to recognize out-
of-state carry permits held by non-residents (if the permit is
issued by a state that, in turn, recognizes Arizona permit
holders) was reported out of the House Judiciary Committee and
now heads to the floor. It is expected that attempts will be made
to attach damaging amendments to the measure once it reaches the
floor.  Members: Please contact your State Representatives and
urge them to support HB 2218 without any damaging amendments. 

Hawaii: HB 339 will soon be considered in the House. This NRA-
backed right to carry reform bill targets the current
discretionary system and replaces it with a fair, non-
discretionary carry system, allowing law-abiding citizens to
obtain a permit to carry a handgun for self-protection.  Also, HB
233, a bill which would allow transportation of handguns for the
purpose of using them for hunting, was reported out of the House
Water and Land Use Committee.  Hearings on both HB 339 & HB 233
have been tentatively scheduled in the House Judiciary Committee
for Thursday, February 27. Members:Please contact your State
Representatives and urge them to support both HB 339 and HB 233. 
Also, please attend Thursday's hearing, tentatively scheduled for
2:00 p.m. in room 229 of the State Capitol. For more information,
contact the Hawaii Rifle Association Hotline at (808) 261-2754. 

Nebraska: The shooting range protection bill, LB-350, advanced
out of the Judiciary Committee earlier this week. We encourage
all members to contact their State Senators and urge them to
support LB-350 when it comes before them on the floor. 

Virginia: Good News! Anti-gun Judge James Berry's (denied Oliver
North a carry permit) renomination continues to look bleak,
repeal of right to carry and over 30 other anti-gun bill are
dead. We'll keep you posted as the legislature races towards
adjournment this Saturday!  

Washington: HB 1408, a bill that requires Washington to recognize
out-of-state carry permits was reported out of the House Law &
Justice Committee earlier this week on a 8-5 vote. The bill goes
to the House floor. Members:Please call your State
Representatives and urge them to support HB 1408.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.879FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Feb 25 1997 10:27132
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 8                                             2/21/97

                            CDC-EITFUL

     Despite a prohibition on the use of CDC funds to "advocate
or promote gun control," it seems that CDC's National Center for
Injury Prevention and Control (NCIPC) is defying the intent of
the law.  The CDC released a "study" highlighting the alleged
disparity among "industrial nations" in child deaths caused by
gunfire.  The piece concludes (surprise!) that the rate of death
among U.S. children far outpaces the death rates of other
nations.  Of course, the "research" is flawed in a number of
ways, not the least of which is of the 25 "industrialized
countries" examined, some of them aren't industrialized, while
others aren't even countries!  Moreover, they treated these 25
unrelated "countries" from four continents as if they were a
single country for comparison to the U.S., simply adding up
deaths and populations to produce a death rate dominated by
Japan, which made up one-quarter of the population.  As usual,
when it comes to the CDC's activities on this front the devil's
in the details.  CDC contends they're not promoting gun control
with these "studies" because they're not directly advocating any
specific legislation (Fed. Register, 2-19-97, p. 7462)..  They
are merely producing data which contribute nothing to the
scientific study of homicide or suicide, but plenty to the
rhetoric of anti-gun media and politicians.  Please call your
U.S. Rep. & Senators at 202/224-3121 and encourage them to inform
CDC that not using our tax dollars for gun control means just
that!

CO-SPONSORS WANTED FOR CARRY BILL:  Although we're just a few
short weeks into the 105th Congress, H.R. 339 -- Rep. Cliff
Stearns' (R-Fla.) national right to carry reciprocity bill -- is
turning out to be an extremely hot issue.  As you'll recall, this
bill would require recognition of any state-issued carry permit
by all 50 states.  In order to ensure the timely advancement of
H.R. 339, it is crucial that as many Representatives as possible
sign on as co-sponsors of this measure.  In addition to a feature
story on Prof. Gary Kleck's research highlighting the fact that
firearms are used over 2.5 million times annually for defensive
purposes that will appear in your April NRA magazine, a pro-H.R.
339 petition will also be included.  Please copy and circulate
the petition in your community and return it to NRA-ILA so we may
personally deliver them to lawmakers on Capitol Hill.  If you
want to get started on your signature collecting right away,
contact the Grassroots Division for advance copies of these
petitions.

HANDGUN REGISTRATION BILL INTRODUCED IN CONGRESS:  Rep. Alcee
Hastings (D-Fla.) has introduced H.R. 186, the "Handgun
Registration Act of 1997."  H.R. 186 would require all handguns,
including those currently owned or acquired in the future, to be
registered either under a federal scheme or by the gun owner's
state of residence.  Penalties for violation of the law could
include a 15-year prison sentence and a $250,000 fine.  Please
call your U.S. Representative and urge him to oppose H.R. 186.

HAMILTON, POSHARD & GLENN TO RETIRE, MCCOLLUM TO STAY IN HOUSE: 
Rep. Lee Hamilton (D-Ind.) has announced he won't seek re-
election in 1998.  In the 104th Congress, Hamilton defied his
party's leadership and the President by voting for and lobbying
his fellow Democrats in support of repealing the Clinton gun ban,
and he was a leader in our campaign to defund the NCIPC.  In
other House news, pro-gun Rep. Bill McCollum (R-Fla.), Chair of
the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and a rumored 1998 Senate
candidate, has decided to seek re-election to his U.S. House
seat.  Finally, Rep. Glenn Poshard (D-Ill.), a Clinton crime bill
supporter but Clinton gun ban opponent, will also retire.  On the
Senate side, anti-gunner, John Glenn (D-Ohio), announced that he
will retire in 1999.

BYE-BYE "BUYBACK":  Baltimore Mayor Kurt Schmoke has canceled his
city's gun turn-in program because of what he claims was "an
organized effort to undermine" it.  People were turning in new
guns that cost less than the $100 they received under the program
as well as nonfunctioning guns.  Moreover, some of the guns
turned in were by individuals residing outside of the city. 
Baltimore paid out over $10,000 for guns during the turn-in
period.  The matter is under police investigation.

A LOOK AT THE STATES:

Alaska: SB 8, the NRA-supported range protection bill, could be
considered by the Senate next week. Please contact your local
Legislative Information Office and send a Public Opinion Message
to your State Sens. in support of SB 8. 

Arizona: HB 2218, which requires recognition of out-of-state
carry permits (if the permit's issued by a state recognizing
Arizona permits) was reported out of the House Judiciary Cmte.,
and now heads to the House floor, where attempts to add damaging
amendments may be made. Please contact your State Reps. and urge
them to support HB 2218 without any damaging amendments. 

Hawaii: The House will soon consider HB 339, NRA-backed right to
carry reform, that seeks to replace the current discretionary
system with a non-discretionary system.  HB 233, a bill to allow
transportation of handguns for hunting, was reported out of the
House Water and Land Use Cmte.  Hearings on HB 339 & HB 233 have
been tentatively scheduled in the House Judiciary Cmte. for
Thursday, February 27. Please attend Thursday's hearing,
tentatively scheduled for 2:00 p.m. in room 229 of the State
Capitol, and contact your State Reps. in support of these bills.
For more information, call the Hawaii Rifle Association Hotline
at (808) 261-2754. 

Nebraska: The range protection bill, LB-350, advanced from the
Judiciary Cmte. Please contact your State Sens. and urge them to
support LB-350. 

Virginia:  Improvements to Virginia's right to carry law are
moving and over 30 anti-gun bills are dead, and things look bleak
for the renomination of anti-gun Judge James Berry, who denied
Oliver North a carry permit.  Watch for a special Virginia alert
on Monday after the session ends.  

Washington: HB 1408, a bill requiring recognition of out-of-state
carry permits was reported out of the House Law & Justice Cmte.,
and now goes to the House floor. Please call your State Reps. and
urge them to support HB 1408.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.880FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Thu Feb 27 1997 16:06104
                        NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

SPECIAL ALERT                                             2/26/97

                ONCE AGAIN, VIRGINIA LEADS NATION
                     ANTI-GUN JUDGE DEFEATED;
                   RIGHT TO CARRY REFORM PASSED

     The Virginia Legislature wrapped up its regular business on
Saturday evening, bringing to a close a historic session for the
state's gun owners.  This past weekend, the State Senate refused
to re-nominate Circuit Court Judge James Berry, who has unjustly
denied and delayed the issuance of carry permits to numerous
Virginians, including the clearly politically-based denial of
Oliver North's permit renewal during his campaign for U.S.
Senate.  Berry's defeat means that all law-abiding citizens of
Clark and Frederick Counties will be able to exercise their right
to carry for self-defense without hassle or delay.  

     In a letter to NRA-ILA Executive Director Tanya Metaksa,
pro-gun State Senator Russ Potts, who led the charge against
Judge Berry, praised the involvement of NRA's members in the
battle against the judge, calling it "an outstanding example of
standing up for our principles and having the courage to stay
with our stand regardless of any criticism.  Thank you so much
for your tremendous efforts."  Mrs. Metaksa had written a letter
to all Virginia legislators urging them to oppose Berry's re-
nomination, and asked all Virginia NRA members to contact their
lawmakers and express their opposition.

                      RIGHT TO CARRY REFORM

Another victory for Virginia gun owners was the passage of
several critical reforms to Virginia's existing carry law, which
an anti-gun columnist for the Richmond Times-Dispatch had already
called one of the most "liberal" in the nation.  According to
another anti-gunner on the Times-Dispatch staff, these new
changes to the law would "weaken" it even further.  Legislation
is now on the way to pro-gun Governor George Allen's desk that
makes these major reforms to the state's current carry law:

     * Extends the length of time for which a carry permit is
     valid from two to five years.

     * Establishes $50 limit on the fee for a carry permit, which
     when combined with the increase in permit duration,
     effectively reduces the cost of a permit from $25 per year
     to just $10 per year, one of the lowest fees in the entire
     nation.

     * Establishes reciprocity for carry permits between Virginia
     and other states with similar standards for permit issuance.

     * Simplifies the carry permit application, which will now be
     two pages rather than four.

     * Ensures that fingerprints taken as part of the application
     process must be returned to the applicant or destroyed, and
     that fingerprints will not be copied, held or used for any
     other purpose.

     * Clarifies that the court must issue the permit within 45
     days of application, regardless of whether the federal
     background check is complete.

     * Clarifies that permit holders may carry firearms in
     convenience, grocery stores, etc. that sell alcoholic
     beverages for off-premises consumption. 

     * Requires that the court must accept payment for a permit
     in any form currently accepted by the court for payment of
     other fees or penalties (i.e. cash, personal checks). Also,
     allows all permit fees to be paid in one lump sum. 

                     ANTI-GUN BILLS DEFEATED

Over thirty anti-gun pieces of legislation and amendments were
killed by the legislature, including bills repealing "right to
carry," repealing preemption (which unifies state firearm laws),
prohibiting private sale of firearms, banning handguns in
Richmond parks, and requiring taggants in black powder.

                     STOP FAIRFAX GUN CONTROL

Unfortunately, lobbyists for Fairfax County were able to push
through two bills sponsored by anti-gun Sen. Joe Gartlan 
allowing Fairfax County to implement "gun control" in certain
areas within the county.  SB 763 and SB 978 were passed by the
General Assembly, not however, without first being heavily
watered down to obtain passage.  Nevertheless, passage of these
bills sends the wrong message to local governments that they will
be allowed to regulate firearms despite the preemption law
already on the books.  Members: Please call Governor Allen at
(804) 786-2211 and thank him for his past support and urge him to
veto SB 763 and SB 978.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.881FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Thu Feb 27 1997 16:06133
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly

             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No.  8                                  February 25, 1997

CrimeStrike Backs Legislation To Protect Victims Of Crime

     An oft-burglarized Colorado grocer who wounded one of five
men who kicked down his door at 2:30 in the morning was later
sued by the man.  A jury awarded the wounded man a judgement of
$56,180, an amount raised by an appeals court to $308,880.

     To end such practices, CrimeStrike has developed the "Crime
Victims Protection Act" patterned after a bill passed  by the
Minnesota legislature in 1995. The successful bill designed to
protect crime victims from unwarranted civil claims by criminals
was crafted and supported by NRA members throughout the state of
Minnesota.

     To date, similar legislation has been introduced in 
North Dakota, Tennessee, Colorado and Oklahoma, with other states
expected to follow. Similar bills are also pending in the states
of South Carolina and Michigan.

     Under the model legislation, criminals "assume the risk" of
injury during a criminal act, and a court conviction, guilty plea
or other finding of criminal guilt is recognition of that
assumption.  The Crime Victims Protection Act provides legal
protection against lawsuits for crime victims who use legal and
reasonable force against an attacker.

     "The time to end this second assault on crime victims is
now," said CrimeStrike Director Elizabeth J. Swasey. 

Florida Loses Bid To Cancel Inmate Early-Release Credits

     The U.S. Supreme Court last week dealt a blow to Florida and
other states which are attempting to staunch the early release of
thousands of criminals by withdrawing earned-time credits awarded
prison inmates under laws passed to relieve prison overcrowding
in the 1970s and 1980s. 

     The ruling overturned federal district court and federal
appeals court decisions that upheld an opinion by Florida Atty.
Gen. Robert A. Butterworth that a 1992 Florida law ending
sentence-reducing credits for those serving time for murder and
attempted murder could be applied retroactively.

     Florida, joined in a friend of the court brief from 13 other
states, claimed that the decision canceling "provisional" or
across-the-board credits that applied to inmates was an
administrative one, but the Supreme Court said otherwise. 

     "The presumption against the retroactive application of new
laws is an essential thread in the mantle of protection that the
law affords the individual citizen," said Justice John Paul
Stevens in the court's unanimous decision.

     Kenneth Lynce, who was released in 1992 after various
credits cut his 22-year sentence for attempted murder by 15.5
years, was among the prisoners rearrested after Butterworth
issued his opinion.  It was his appeal that brought the case to
the Supreme Court.

     The Lynce decision was the court's second blow to
Butterworth and Floridians concerned about the anticipated early
release of thousands of convicted violent criminals.  
Earlier in the week, the Supreme Court refused to hear the
state's appeal of an October Florida Supreme Court ruling that
the state erred in retroactively canceling good behavior credits
for as many as 22,000 inmates.

Pataki's Work-Release Ban Upheld By N.Y. Appeals Court

     New York Gov. George A. Pataki's executive order barring
violent criminals from state work-release programs has been
upheld in a unanimous decision by the Appellate Division of the
state Supreme Court, reports Corrections Digest.

     Three female state prison inmates asserted that the state
legislature erred in giving the executive branch authority for
Pataki's 1995 order, but Justice D. Bruce Crew III, in his
opinion, wrote "there is no constitutional prohibition against
the delegation of power to the executive branch to administer
laws promulgated by the legislature."

     A Pataki spokesman said that the governor's order had
reduced crime by prison inmates on work release by 90%.  "The
governor's policies are keeping these prisoners where they
belong, behind bars and not placing innocent New Yorkers at
risk," said Patrick McCarthy.

     "We fully support prohibitions against work release for
inmates serving sentences for violent offenses or with histories
as violent offenders," said Tanya Metaksa, NRA's chief lobbyist.  
"That's clearly in the public's interest."

 Paroled CA Mutilator Kills In Florida

     A man paroled after serving just over eight years for a
notorious California crime in which he twice-raped and then
mutilated a young woman by chopping off her arms was arrested
near Tampa, Fla., last week in the brutal stabbing murder of 
31-year-old Roxanne Hayes, the mother of three.  

     Lawrence Singleton, now 69, was paroled in 1987 after
serving just over half of a 14-year sentence for the 1978 crime
where he left the 15-year-old victim for dead alongside a
California road.  He returned to his native Florida after his
parole ended in 1988.    

**********
The concluding sentence in last week's issue of CrimeWatch Weekly
contained an error.  Rapes reported to police in 1995 were at the
lowest per-capita rate since 1985, according to a Bureau of
Justice Statistics report.
**********

                 A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
     Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org.
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.882FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Thu Feb 27 1997 16:0766
February 26, 1997

IMPORTANT ALERT FOR NEW MEXICO GUN OWNERS:

     The Senate Judiciary Committee is set to consider SB 676,
NRA-backed right to carry legislation, this Friday, February 28,
at 2:00 p.m. in Room 321.  Please make plans to attend this
hearing with fellow gun owners in support of your right to self-
defense.

     The following Senators are key members of the Judiciary
Committee and need to hear from you:

Senator                       Phone               Fax

Fernando Macias, Chairman     (505) 986-4507      (505) 986-4280
Linda Lopez                   (505) 986-4265           "
Bill Payne                    (505) 986-4367           "
Michael Sanchez               (505) 986-4513           "
R.L. Stockard                 (505) 986-4368           "
Leonard Tsosie                (505) 986-4311           "
* Skip Vernon                 (505) 986-4702           "

     * Sen. Vernon co-sponsored SB 676 with Sen. Shannon
Robinson.  PLEASE BE SURE AND CALL HIM TO THANK HIM FOR HIS
SUPPORT!

     Be sure to remind these Senators that New Mexico is one of
only 7 states that prohibits its citizens from carrying a loaded
firearm concealed for self-protection.  And share these important
facts with them:

     * Right To Carry Is A Mainstream Proposal.  With 85 percent
     of violent crimes now occurring outside the home, more and
     more honest citizens are demanding that their state
     lawmakers give them a legal means to protect themselves!  In
     the last two years alone, 16 states have adopted or improved
     "shall issue" carry statutes, bringing to 31 the number of
     states with fair, non-discriminatory carry laws.

     * Florida's Successful Right To Carry Law.  Since Florida's
     right to carry law took effect in 1987, the state's homicide
     rate has dropped 36% and their handgun homicide rate has
     dropped 41%.  During the same time period, the comparable
     national rates have decreased just 0.4% and increased 24%,
     respectively.  Since 1987, more than 383,000 permits to
     carry have been issued in Florida and only 72 -- or just
     .019% -- have been revoked because of firearm-related crimes
     committed by permit holders. 

     * Right To Carry Contributes To Public Safety.  A recent,
     comprehensive study released by University of Chicago Law
     School Professor John Lott showed that by adopting "shall
     issue" carry laws, states reduced murders by 8.5%, rapes by
     5%, aggravated assaults by 7% and robberies by 3%.  If
     states that did not have "shall issue" laws had adopted such
     laws in 1992, at least 1,570 murders, 4,177 rapes, 60,000
     aggravated assaults and 12,000 robberies would have been
     avoided every year.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.883FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Fri Feb 28 1997 13:5391
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

SPECIAL ALERT                                             2/27/97
                                 
                   STOP WAITING, START ACTING!
     Friday, February 28 Marks Brady Act's Third Anniversary

     Tomorrow, President Clinton and his gun control supporters
will "celebrate" the third anniversary of the Brady Act.  We've
all heard the claims of the Clinton Administration that over
100,000 felons have been blocked from purchasing a gun under
Brady, but the facts speak differently.  Like an onion, as the
layers of these Brady Act "successes" are peeled back, the more
things begin to stink.  Interesting how the Administration is
careful to say Brady "blocked" 100,000 felons from buying guns,
rather than under Brady 100,000 felons have been "prosecuted," or
under Brady 100,000 felons have been "jailed."  This is by no
means an oversight, as the rosy picture the President paints is
ripe with thorns.

     Consider that 17 months into the Brady Act's implementation,
the government's General Accounting Office (GAO) found that ONLY
THREE FELONS HAD BEEN INCARCERATED FOR TRYING TO BUY GUNS
ILLEGALLY.  That's a mighty small number for a mighty big crime. 
Under federal law, a felon who even attempts to get a gun can be
sent away for five years.  GAO concluded, "Brady may not result
in measurable reductions of gun-related crimes."  What's more,
when our opponents support our claims, the American people should
take notice.  Take for example, Clinton's former deputy Attorney
General, Phillip Heymann, who recently wrote in the Washington
Post, "None of [the current reductions in crime] is the result of
[the] Brady Act."  With the Brady Act failing to prosecute and
incarcerate those rare prohibited persons who attempt to buy a
gun from a licensed dealer, it's no surprise the law's receiving
abundant criticism.

                      There Is A Better Way!

     And what's more, it's already built into the Brady Act.  A
host of lawmakers supported the misguided Brady bill because it
contained a requirement to upgrade criminal records and to
transform the waiting period into a better system.  Next year,
the Brady Act's placebo five day waiting period sunsets and the
national instant check and arrest takes over.  This system has
proven to be fast, fair and effective in over a dozen states. 
Instant check can mean instant arrest when an illegal purchase is
attempted.  For example, in Virginia, the first instant check
state, State Police arrested 2,382 individuals attempting to
illegally purchase a firearm, plus another 332 wanted persons
(Nov. '89 - end of 1996).  While in the last five years, Delaware
police arrested 286 wanted persons.

     Of course, the naysayers in Congress don't truly care about
stopping criminals, and wish only to delay and deny lawful
purchases.  Expect gun ban advocates to push for an extension of
Brady's five day wait, if not for a permanent waiting period. 
Unfortunately for the gun grabbers, this Spring, the U.S. Supreme
Court could declare the Act unconstitutional on the grounds that
the federal government cannot commandeer local and state law
enforcement officials to carry out a federally-mandated
background check.

                      Make Your Voice Heard!

     In the coming days, you're likely to come across a myriad of
lies concerning the Brady Act, and we need your help to set the
record straight.  As an NRA-ILA Volunteer, we're asking that you:

     (1) CALL YOUR FAVORITE TALK SHOW to present the facts
     on Brady.  Also, be sure to monitor your local media
     and respond to any erroneous Brady stories.  Use the
     information in this fax and NRA-ILA Grassroots as a
     resource.

     (2) CALL YOUR U.S. LAWMAKERS AT (202)224-3121 and tell
     them it's time to stop waiting and start acting.  Ask
     them what the Clinton Administration has done with the
     $200 million it was authorized to upgrade and automate
     criminal history records to bring the better system on
     line.

           NOW IS THE TIME FOR ACTION, NOT FOR WAITING!

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.884FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Fri Feb 28 1997 13:5582
February 27, 1997

              IMPORTANT ALERT FOR TEXAS GUN OWNERS:

                   SEN. FLORENCE SHAPIRO KILLS
                SENATE RIGHT TO CARRY REFORM BILL

     On February 18, the Senate Criminal Justice Committee held a
hearing on SB 204, right to carry reform legislation sponsored by
Sen. Jerry Patterson, which rolled back restrictions on where
license holders could lawfully carry, ended local regulation of
license holders and established reciprocal licensing provisions
for non-residents.  At that time, the bill was sent to
subcommittee for further work and debate, with committee chairman
Sen. John Whitmire (D-Houston) appointing Patterson, Sen.
Florence Shapiro (R-Plano) and Sen. Royce West (D-Dallas) to the
subcommittee.

     Earlier today during the subcommittee meeting on SB 204,
Sen. Florence Shapiro (R-Plano) decided to stake out her position
AGAINST law-abiding license holders and gun owners in Texas.  She
OPPOSED prohibiting state agencies and local governments from
regulating the carrying of handguns by law-abiding license
holders on their premises.  At the same time, she REFUSED to
remove state-imposed restrictions on where license holders may
lawfully carry, effectively prohibiting private property or
business owners (i.e., hospitals, nursing homes and amusement
parks) from allowing license holders to carry on their premises
if they choose.  While citing a "concern" for allowing local
governments to regulate carrying by license holders on their
premises, she simultaneously opposed giving any control to these
local businesses or property owners!  Her opposition to these
important reforms that YOU support effectively killed the Senate
version of the right to carry reform bill in subcommittee today.

     Sen. Shapiro ignored the impeccable record of safety and
responsibility established by Texas carry license holders.  She
pushed aside the fact that there are no records of incidents
involving permit holders in local government buildings or on
state premises.  And most of all she disregarded Article 1,
Section 23 of the Bill of Rights of the Texas Constitution which
explicitly states:

     "the Legislature shall have power, by law, to regulate
     the wearing of arms, with a view to prevent crime."

     NRA members and Texas gun owners supported Sen. Shapiro in
1992 when she ran for the Senate.  In 1996, she received an "A+"
rating based on her support of the right to carry law that passed
a year-and-a-half ago.  Now she has turned her back on those who
supported her and those who, through their actions, have proven
that the license holders are safe, responsible, law-abiding
citizens.

     Let Sen. Shapiro know how disappointed you with her decision
to oppose making these important reforms to Texas' right to carry
law.  Urge her to reconsider her position on SB 204 and these
important issues.  She holds the key to the final demise of this
bill or its resurrection in subcommittee with these key reforms:  

Contact numbers for Sen. Florence Shapiro

Capitol Office Phone
(512) 463-0108

Capitol Office Fax
(512) 463-7579

District Office Phone
(972) 964-5585

District Office Fax
(972) 964-5290    

email address: florence.shapiro@senate.state.tx.us

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.885FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Fri Feb 28 1997 13:56168
          ADDRESS TO THE NATIONAL SHERIFF'S ASSOCIATION
      CONGRESSIONAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE MID-WINTER CONFERENCE

                   by Elizabeth J. Swasey, Esq.
                     NRA CrimeStrike Director

            at the J.W. Marriott Hotel, Washington DC
                        February 27, 1997

Good afternoon.  Your scheduled speaker, the Executive Director
of the NRA Institute for Legislative Action, Tanya Metaksa, was
called away at the last minute.  Tanya sends her apologies and
her best wishes along with the hope that she'll see you next
time.

I'm Elizabeth Swasey, Director of the CrimeStrike division of the
NRA Institute.  CrimeStrike is NRA's criminal justice reform
division.  We "bankrolled" the nation's first 3 strikes law, and
have helped pass versions of it in more than 20 states.  We've
helped states toughen their juvenile justice systems so that
young murderers are treated fairly.  We've helped 24 states pass
victims' rights and more than a dozen pass truth-in-sentencing. 
And we've worked on the federal level, successfully tripling the
funds available to states for prison construction so that states
have the ability to incapacitate violent criminals.

Today, I'd like to talk about the new federal misdemeanor
domestic violence gun ban -- the Lautenberg Act, which passed a
few weeks shy of the last election.

Before I get into the specifics, you need to know 2 things: the
law does not exempt law enforcement, and it applies retroactively
as well as prospectively.

The Lautenberg Misdemeanor Domestic Violence Gun Ban prohibits
the possession of guns and ammunition by anyone convicted of any
offense that is a misdemeanor under federal or state law, that
involves the use or attempted use of physical force, or the
threatened use of a deadly weapon, if the offense is committed by
a  current or former spouse, parent or guardian, or by a person
cohabiting or who has cohabited with the victim.  

For the ban to apply, the person must have been represented by
counsel at the hearing or knowingly waived counsel, and must have
been afforded a jury trial or waived a jury trial by pleading
guilty.  

The prohibition can only be removed if the conviction is expunged
or set aside, the individual is pardoned, or his civil rights
restored under state law.

So what does this mean in practical terms?
                                
Remember that cop in Oklahoma who was suspended for slapping a
young man he discovered having sex with his minor daughter on
their living room couch?  

If the officer also slapped his daughter, this could be child
abuse under the Lautenberg Act, requiring that unfortunate
officer to be stripped of his gun rights -- forever.

You know better than anyone else:  does this help the domestic
violence victims that you know?

Think about the hundreds of thousands of people who pled guilty
to a misdemeanor 10 or 20 years ago, not because there was
serious wrongdoing, but because it avoided the time and expense
of trial and resulted in little punishment.  

Even if the plea was 3 decades ago and the person's had a
spotless record since, under Lautenberg, these citizens could be
stripped of their constitutional rights for life.

Does this help the domestic violence victims that you know?

The Lautenberg Act passed without a single hearing.  Had it had
the benefit of "sunshine" a few salient facts may have come to
light. There are many, but I'll just touch on just the top 3.

First is the fact that 94% of domestic violence aggravated
assaults, rapes and robberies do not -- let me say that again, do
not -- involve guns. 

Second is the fact that more than 50% of domestic abusers who
murder their partners and 70% of abusers who commit other
felonies have previous criminal records -- meaning, in all
likelihood -- that the only reason these criminals were able to
attack their partners again is that the revolving door of justice
failed to keep them in prison for more than 1/3 of their
sentences.

Third and finally, had the Lautenberg Act been subject to the
usual legislative hearings, lawmakers would have learned that
domestic violence injury and death is preventable.  

They would have learned that domestic violence is a crime of
predictability, not of "passion."  

The most well-known study on the subject -- the Minneapolis
Domestic Violence Experiment -- found that in 85% of domestic
violence homicides, law enforcement had responded to at least one
domestic violence call at the address in the past 2 years, and in
54% of these cases, they'd previously responded 5 or more times.

What does this have to do with guns?  Almost nothing -- and
that's the point.

Domestic violence is a national disgrace, and so is the
Lautenberg Act.  The misdemeanor domestic violence gun ban was
election-eve grandstanding on the backs of domestic violence
victims.

It's time to stop grandstanding and do something good.  Right
now, there are two bills in congress to amend Lautenberg.  The
first, sponsored by Bart Stupak, would exempt law enforcement,
but anti-domestic violence advocates are already on record that
this will not satisfy them.  The second, sponsored by Bob Barr,
would remove the act's retroactivity, but retain its
prospectivity, as they apply to everyone. 

The Barr bill is a step in the right direction, but it's a baby-
step when what domestic violence victims need is one giant leap.

Through its criminal justice reform division, the NRA Institute
will offer a 4-prong proposal in lieu of Lautenberg, the
highlight of which is a provision that all domestic violence
experts concur will facilitate two interdependent results:  The
safety of domestic violence victims and the successful
prosecution of domestic violence criminals.

This giant leap is doubling from $334 to $650 million the funds
available to states under the Violence Against Women Act for
emergency domestic violence shelters, and to allow states to use
these funds for long-term "transitional housing" too.

Without these safe havens, victims will continue to fail to press
charges because they fear retaliation once abusers are freed on
pretrial release and return to the shared home. 

Without these safe havens, victims who depend on abusers
financial support -- especially those with children -- will
continue to fail to seek help or press charges because if they
can't support their families alone, victims face live on the
streets. 

Without these safe havens, people will continue to shake their
heads after a domestic violence homicide and ask the rhetorical
question, "why didn't she just leave him?"

And if the victim could answer, she'd ask a question, too: "how
can you leave when there's no where to go?"

The answer to this question and to preventing domestic violence
will be a giant leap forward for all Americans, but it can't be
found in the Lautenberg Act.

I would urge the National Sheriff's Association to decline any
invitation to participate in Lautenberg grandstanding, and to do
something good instead.

Thank you.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.886FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 02 1997 21:07130
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 9                                             2/28/97

      THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK -- AT LAW-ABIDING GUN OWNERS!

     What unfortunately is becoming par for the course for the
anti-gunners has once again occurred -- blaming law-abiding gun
owners for the criminal act of a deranged gunman.  In light of
the recent Empire State Building shooting, the hues and cries for
more restrictions on our rights have been reverberating across
the country.  Make no mistake, America's law-abiding gun owners
are under siege!  We are again being scapegoated for the act of a
criminal, and the anti-gunners' propaganda machine is in full
swing!  By now, you're familiar with the story; a foreign
national apparently legally residing in the U.S. purchased a
semi-automatic firearm in Florida that was subsequently used in a
shooting in New York City.  While the anti-gunners are
highlighting this tragedy as an example of the need for new
restrictions on our rights, intellectual honesty dictates this
incident should be used to highlight the failures of a number of
gun control laws already on the books. 

     Failure #1:  Florida's three-day waiting period/background
     check.  Since the gunman produced proof of residency (even
     though he did not reside in Florida for the 90 days required
     of an alien under the Gun Control Act of 1968), nothing
     showed up to prohibit the purchase.

     Failure #2:  Federal prohibition against purchasing a
     handgun outside of one's state of legal residence.

     Failure #3:  New York City's licensing & registration
     schemes.  Despite the anti-gunners' claims that gun
     registration and licensing will prevent similar shootings,
     this case obviously showed the failures of these placebos.

     Failure #4: New York City's elitist, discriminatory carry
     permit system that renders average citizens defenseless by
     denying them their means to self-defense -- a right that in
     New York, is reserved only for the well connected.

     Unfortunately, intellectual honesty isn't a mainstay of the
anti-gunners, and a number of gun control schemes are now being
promoted by the President or have been introduced in the U.S.
Congress.  For example, since his "State of the Union" address
earlier this month, President Clinton has been repeatedly calling
for an "expansion of the Brady Act" to prevent teenage criminals
from obtaining firearms and a national "trigger lock" law
requiring all handguns to be sold with one of these mechanical
devices.  In addition to the following bills pending in Congress,
a licensing scheme and a proposal to prohibit the possession of
firearms by non-citizens are also being bandied about by Rep.
Schumer and his ilk.  In the U.S. House, we're facing: gun
registration (H.R. 186); increased federal "standards" on
handguns (H.R. 116); a ban on toy guns (H.R. 361); prohibition on
possession or transfer of "non-sporting" handguns (H.R. 476);
"junk guns" ban (H.R. 492); gun rationing (H.R. 12); handgun &
handgun ammunition ban (H.R. 787) and expansion of regulatory
powers of BATF over guns (H.R. 788). In the Senate, the picture
is similarly hostile: "junk guns" ban (S. 70); ammo bans (S. 112,
S. 132, S. 136); ammo taxes (S. 133 & S. 137) and licensing of
manufacturers of ammunition (S. 134).  With so much at stake,
it's critical that we prepare to go all out in opposition to
these measures.  Encourage your family and friends to join NRA-
ILA's Grassroots Network, and to contact their lawmakers on these
proposals.

FLORIO FLIES THE COOP:  Former New Jersey Governor Jim Florio (D-
NJ), who was one of the nation's most outspoken supporters of gun
control, has decided not to run again for governor.  Florio, who
was defeated in 1993 by Gov. Christie Todd Whitman (R), was
seriously mulling over a comeback in this year's gubernatorial
contest.  According to a Feb. 24 Washington Times story, Florio
will instead support anti-gun Representative Robert Andrews (D)
in that race.  

A LOOK AT THE STATES:

ALASKA: NRA-supported range protection, SB 8, passed the Senate
and heads to the House. Please contact your local Legis. Info.
Office and send a Public Opinion Message to your State Reps. in
support of SB 8.

FLORIDA: The Senate Criminal Justice Cmte. reported out SB 42,
requiring Florida to recognize valid out-of-state carry licenses
held by non-residents.  The legislature will convene on March 4.

GEORGIA: HB 290, a bill that originally proposed changes to the
current instant background check system to include checks on all
gun purchases and to increase the fee $2.00, was scaled back in
cmte. thanks to the help of Reps. Ralph Twiggs and Curtis Jenkins
and the Governor's office.  The measure, will be considered by
the full House, and now only slightly modifies the system to hold
off handgun sales on Christmas day and reduce the hours of
operation on Sundays to 6:00 p.m.

HAWAII: HB 233, a bill allowing transportation of handguns for
hunting, was reported out of the House Judiciary Cmte. and will
be considered by the full House. Please call you State Reps. in
support of HB 233.

NEBRASKA: The Judiciary Cmte. has killed LB 110, the mandatory
firearms storage bill, and advanced LB 465, NRA-backed right to
carry legislation.  NRA-ILA will work with bill sponsor Sen. Stan
Schellpeper on amending LB 465 on the floor to make improvements
which will benefit law-abiding citizens.  Please call your State
Sens. in support of LB 465.

OREGON: A subcommittee of the House Judiciary Cmte. held hearings
this week on HB 2621, which exempts CHL holders from instant
check and makes other necessary reforms to that law, and HB 2622,
allowing Oregon to recognize valid out-of-state carry licenses
held by non-residents.

WASHINGTON: HB 1408, a bill that requires Washington to recognize
out-of-state carry permits, HB 1541, NRA-backed range protection
legislation and  HB 1050, a bill which would reduce the carry
permit fees ($60 to $50) and increase the state dealer license
from 1 year to 3 years are pending on the House floor.Please call
your State Reps. in support of these measures.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.887FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 02 1997 21:08181
                      Mrs. Tanya K. Metaksa
                        Executive Director
               NRA Institute for Legislative Action

                      at a Press Conference
                        February 28, 1997

I am the author of a book on women's personal safety.  Titled
"Safe, Not Sorry," the book will be published this spring by 
Judith Regan Books, a division of Harper Collins.  

In writing this book, I have learned from the victims of domestic
violence that there are -- ALWAYS and UNAVOIDABLY -- TWO steps
victims must take to make it to safety.  

TWO STEPS.  

Step one.  They must say, "No" to the abusive relationship and
put distance and walls -- both real and legal -- between
themselves and their attacker.   We are speaking of the real
walls of domestic violence shelters which NRA is committed to
helping states create.  And we are speaking about legal walls
like court-ordered restraining orders with special conditions to
protect the woman and the children.  

Step two.   They must say, "not only no, but Hell no" to the
escalation of violence that is SURELY, SURELY to follow.   

Perhaps the escalation will occur in small steps -- a word
becomes a push, a push becomes a shove, a shove becomes a black
eye.  The victim must have the power to thwart the abuser as he
attempts to exert power and control over the victim.   

There are ways to do this, and none of them are found in the
Lautenberg Act.  

Putting distance between victim and abuser foils the abuser's
primary weapon:  escalation of violence.   Escalation IS the
weapon of choice of each and every domestic abuser.  

So, for the victims, it's two steps to safety.  Step one: walls,
both physical and legal.  Step two: Both a plan and the power to
thwart the escalation.   Remember, the right of self-defense does
not depend on the relationship between victim and attacker.

Where's the NRA in all of this?

NRA is opposed to Lautenberg.  In the biggest pretend news scoop
of this week, the Senator makes much ado about an alert we faxed
to thousands of our members and posted on our Internet homepage.  

HINT: THAT MEANS IT'S PUBLIC INFORMATION!  The alert not only
explains why NRA is opposed to his law.  It states that NRA
really IS opposed to his law.  He suggests that we are hiding our
opposition to his law.  We are opposed, and this is not news.  

NRA is not alone in opposing all or portions of the Lautenberg
Act.   Here's the list:

     * Law Enforcement Alliance of America supports ridding the
     bill of the retroactivity provision.

     * National Association of Police Organizations want police
     exempted.

     * The International Brotherhood of Police Organizations feel
     likewise.

     * The Fraternal Order of Police supports getting rid of the
     retroactivity clause, as does the International Association
     of Police Organizations.

     * The National Sheriffs' Association will vote on this issue
     in the next few days.  

Lautenberg avoids attacking the problem head-on.   And the
problem is, simply, that society is not treating domestic
violence seriously.  Serious crimes SHOULD be felonies.  Serious
domestic violence assaults and batteries are ALREADY felonies
that prohibit gun ownership.   Misdemeanors are, by definition,
NOT serious crimes.   

If the problem is inappropriate plea bargaining, then we must
attack that problem, not sidestep it.  Lautenberg fails to attack
that problem.  

For our part, NRA will battle domestic violence as the American
people understand it -- not under some new definition concocted
by inside-the-beltway bureaucrats. 

Does everyone remember the police officer in Oklahoma?  He came
home to find a young man having sex with his minor daughter.  He
slapped the young man, and he was suspended from the force.  Had
the young man been his son, the officer would have lost his job
and his gun rights forever.   

Bill and Betty were college sweethearts and roommates 10 years
ago.  They meet for a class reunion.  Remembering the good old
days, Bill gently strokes Betty's cheek, but doesn't ask
permission in advance.  Betty isn't harmed, but this IS domestic
violence under Lautenberg -- because the "crime" involved
physical force by one former cohabitant against another.

John and Ann are separated, and Ann has custody of the children. 
When John comes to pick up the kids for weekend visitation, they
run upstairs to hide.  Ann turns to go after them, and John grabs
her arm, saying, "No, Ann.  I'll deal with them.  You wait here." 
Ann isn't hurt, but this IS domestic violence under Lautenberg --
because the crime involved physical force by one spouse against
another.

Molly is the single mother of a 13-year-old-girl.   She comes
home from work to find her daughter and a boy undressed on the
living room couch.  Molly yells, "get off that couch now, or I'll
put it on top of you!" This is domestic violence under Lautenberg
-- because it involved a parent's threatened use of a deadly
weapon against her child.  

As you know, NRA lobbies for criminal justice reform and victims'
rights through our CrimeStrike Division.  This is the NRA
division that made the first "3 Strikes You're Out" initiative
the law in Washington state, about 2 years before President
Clinton adopted the idea in his state of the union address.  We
have lobbied successfully for all sorts of tough, smart measures
-- from juvenile justice reform to victims' rights constitutional
amendments.  

Here is the five-prong attack NRA is pursuing:

One, NRA will lobby to double federal funds to shelters -- to
make places for victims to put walls as well as distance between
them and their attackers.   Just as importantly, shelters free
domestic violence victims of fear of retaliation should they
press charges.  

Two, NRA will lobby to put teeth in the Violence Against Women
Act's interstate enforcement of restraining orders by attaching
mandatory minimum sentences for violation.  Right now, an abuser
can cross state lines, violate the restraining order by attacking
his partner -- and not be subject to ANY penalty.

Three, NRA will safeguard the right of self-defense, by passing
right to carry in the minority of states -- nineteen -- that deny
the right.  Also, we will help pass the national right to carry
recognition bill being introduced by Congressman Cliff Stearns of
Florida.  It ensures that the right doesn't end at the state line
-- that's particularly important to domestic violence victims who
often flee their home states.  Moreover, we will lobby to
establish that victims of domestic violence with valid
restraining orders are AUTOMATICALLY covered by the Brady Act's
emergency exemption to the waiting period.  

Four, encourage states to continue to adopt truth in sentencing,
ensuring that violent criminals always serve a minimum of 85% of
their sentence.  

Notice, I say, CONTINUE to adopt.  Our CrimeStrike division has
done a great job in getting them to adopt.  We have successfully
lobbied more than a dozen states to adopt truth in sentencing.

Five, attack inappropriate plea bargaining by shining the light
of public scrutiny on prosecutors who strike inappropriate deals
that free serious criminals -- felons -- by making them
misdemeanants.   

Remember, when you hear the word MISDEMEANOR, think MIS-DEED.

Think traffic-violator.  

Think NOT-serious crime.   

All of us agree that domestic violence is a SERIOUS crime.  

All of us agree that domestic violence demands SERIOUS solutions.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.888FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 02 1997 21:0955
February 28, 1997

Alaska: NRA-supported range protection, SB 8, has passed the
Senate and now heads to the House for consideration. Members:
Please contact your local Legislative Information Office and send
a Public Opinion Message to your State Representatives
encouraging them to support SB 8. 

Florida: The Senate Criminal Justice Committee reported out SB
42, requiring Florida to recognize valid out-of-state carry
licenses held by non-residents.  The legislature is set to
convene on March 4.  We'll keep you posted! 

Georgia: HB 290, a bill that originally proposed changes to the
current instant background check system to include checks on all
firearm purchases and increase the fee $2.00, was scaled back in
committee thanks to the help of Representatives Ralph Twiggs and
Curtis Jenkins and the Governor's office.  The measure, which
will soon be considered by the full House, now only slightly
modifies the system to hold off handgun sales on Christmas day
and reduce the hours of operation on Sundays to 6:00 p.m. 

Hawaii: HB 233, a bill to allow transportation of handguns for
hunting was reported out of the House Judiciary Committee and
will now be considered by the full House. Members: Please call
you State Representatives and urge them to support HB 233.   
Nebraska: The Judiciary Committee has killed LB 110, the
mandatory firearms storage bill, and advanced LB 465, NRA-backed
right to carry legislation.  NRA-ILA will work with bill sponsor
Sen. Stan Schellpeper on amending LB 465 on the floor to make
improvements which will benefit law-abiding citizens.  Members:
please call your State Senators and urge them to support LB 465. 

Oregon: A subcommittee of the House Judiciary Committee held
hearings this week on HB 2621, which exempts CHL holders from
instant check and makes other necessary reforms to that law, and
HB 2622, allowing Oregon to recognize valid out-of-state carry
licenses held by non-residents.  Thanks to everyone who turned
out on short notice for these hearings -- we'll keep you posted
on subcommittee action! 

Washington: HB 1408, a bill that requires Washington to recognize
out-of-state carry permits; HB 1541, NRA-backed range protection
legislation and  HB 1050, a bill which would reduce the carry
permit fees ($60 to $50) and increase the state dealer license
from 1 year to 3 years are pending on the House floor.
Members:Please call your State Representatives and urge them to
support these measures.  

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA. 

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.889FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 02 1997 21:09178
                        Mr. Wayne LaPierre
                   NRA Executive Vice-President

                      at a Press Conference
                        February 28, 1997

Good morning.

It's time to stop waiting and start arresting.  Three years ago
under a great deal of controversy the Brady Handgun Violence
Prevention Act went into effect.  And today, the debate still
rages as to whether or not the Brady Act is preventing violence. 
Earlier today, Sarah Brady and the administration proclaimed that
the Brady Act is a resounding success.  The facts suggest
otherwise.

Our case is rather simple and straightforward.  If you do not
arrest, prosecute and incarcerate violent felons when they
attempt to purchase a gun, the law is meaningless.  Why?  Let me
give you an example:

One night, you work late and return home, only to find police
cars surrounding your house.  Your heart pounds as you approach
the police officer at your front door.  "A stranger tried to
break in," he explains, "but your neighbor called 911.  We caught
the criminal in the act and cuffed him."  

You breathe a sigh of relief, but the relief soon vanishes. 
Incredibly, the officer walks the criminal down the street and
releases him.   

In the last 3 years, the officer explains, authorities have
detected as many as 100,000 criminals in the act of breaking the
law -- only to free virtually every one of them.   In fact, in
the last 3 years, only 3 have been imprisoned.

"I don't like it either," the officer shrugs, "but it's the
system."

If this sort of "system" offends you, and it should, its twin
sister is the Brady Act.

It's time to stop waiting and start arresting.  The mere act of a
felon attempting to purchase a firearm is punishable by a five
year federal penalty.  Additionally, if the felon lied on the
4473 application, that would be an additional five year federal
penalty.  It's time to stop waiting and start arresting.  It's
time to put criminals where they belong, not out on the street
where they can get a gun by stealing it or buying it on the black
market, but behind bars, the only true place where Americans can
be sure that they won't get guns. 

In 1993, when the Brady Act went into effect there were 5 states
operating the instant check and arrest system.  Today, there are
15.  The arrests record of the Brady Act pales in comparison to
that of the instant check states.  Two stellar regional examples
are Virginia and Delaware.

Virginia was the first state to implement the instant check and
arrest system in 1987.  At the time Sarah Brady called it "a
model for the nation".  Since 1989, the instant check system has
led to the arrest of more than 2,700 prohibited persons who
attempted to purchase firearms in the Commonwealth.

In Delaware, 67% of the prohibited persons that walk into a gun
store and attempt a purchase, walk out with handcuffs on and are
on their way to jail.

It does absolutely no good to just deny felons, you must arrest
them to truly prevent them from getting guns.

Wednesday, Attorney General Janet Reno said before the House
Judiciary Committee that the emphasis of the Brady Act was to
deny felons guns, not to arrest them.  The question we'd like to
ask the Attorney General is how can you be completely sure that
we're denying felons a gun if we don't arrest them?  Even the
Justice Department's own press release has this qualifier:  "The
data do not indicate whether rejected purchasers later obtained a
firearm through other means."  And this is exactly our point.

And do we really believe that a hardened felon walks into a gun
store, gets denied and sent away under Brady, and doesn't find an
alternative means of getting a gun?  Logic and research would
conclude that of course they do.

And how outraged would you be if you, a victim of gun crime,
found out that your attacker was a felon who had been identified
by the government as attempting to purchase a gun, but the
government had done nothing to apprehend this person?  In fact,
why isn't it a national scandal that the government has
identified 86,000 felons attempting to get a gun, but have only
incarcerated three?  Our bottom line is truly denying felons
firearms from any source.  The Brady Act's bottom line is purely
symbolic.

In the President's State of the Union Address he called for
national legislation requiring trigger locks on all firearms. 
This would essentially outlaw self-defense in the home as we know
it today.

There is not one trigger lock manufacturer that recommends
locking a loaded firearm with a trigger lock.  This would pose a
great risk of personal injury.  In fact here is a very popular
brand of trigger lock whose packaging reads on the front:
WARNING! DO NOT USE ON A LOADED GUN!  ATTEMPTS TO USE ON A LOADED
GUN MAY RESULT IN AN ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE!

So, in effect, what the president is saying is that if someone
breaks into your house and is about to attack your family, you
have to locate the key for the lock, unlock the gun and then load
the gun, before you can save the lives of your family.

It is inconceivable that the President would propose one form of
storing a firearm for 65 million Americans.  The storage
requirements for a single woman that lives alone in a drug-
infested neighborhood are much different from the storage
requirements of a family of four in a secured townhouse
development.

Take for example 75-year-old Dorothy Cunningham and 61-year-old
Marty Killinger, both grandmothers, that live together in Moses
Lake, Washington.  These two heroes recently saved their lives
with a handgun. But rather than my telling their story, let's
hear it from Dorothy and Marty as they recalled their story to me
on my radio show last week.  They were sitting at home when they
heard a knock at the door.

      (Audio Tape of Dorothy Cunningham and Marty Killinger)

And guess what? The thugs fled.

If President Clinton's trigger lock proposal had been law, they
might very well be dead right now.  Trigger locks can be deadly
to those who need to access their firearm for self-defense.

For NRA, the reduction of firearms accidents is very important. 
Throughout NRA's 125 years of service to the firearms community,
we recognize what truly works to reduce accidents -- EDUCATION. 
To that end, in the past eight years, the NRA has spent over 100
million dollars on firearms safety and training and provided,
through our network of more than 35,000 instructors, that
training to five million people.   And the program that we're
most proud of, the Eddie Eagle gun safety program, has taught a
life-saving message to more than nine million children.  Before I
tell you that message, let me bring out Eddie Eagle.

Eddie's life-saving message is if you see a gun.  STOP! Don't
Touch.  Leave the Area.  Tell an Adult. 

Let me tell you some highlights of this award-winning program:

     * In 1996 the Eddie Eagle safety message reached 1.3 million
     school children.

     * In Florida, Governor Lawton Chiles declared December 1-7,
     1996 as Eddie Eagle Gun Safety Week.

     * Also last year the Eddie Eagle program received a grant of
     $25,000 from The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation.

I can't emphasize enough the importance of firearms education. 
These programs have a proven track record.  Just recently the
National Safety Council released its latest "Accident Facts"  And
once again the fatal firearms accident rate is on the decline. 
The number of fatal firearm accidents among children in 1995
represents a 64% decrease from an all-time high in 1975.  The
fatal firearms accident rate today is at an all-time low since
they started keeping records in 1903.

Thank you for your attention and we will be glad to answer any
questions you may have.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.890FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 09 1997 20:40123
March 5, 1997

              NO HUNTING, NO SELF-DEFENSE, NO SAFETY
               CLINTON PROPOSALS BAN RIFLE HUNTING,
                    ENDANGER LAW ENFORCEMENT,
                      THREATEN FAMILY SAFETY

 "This is not about Smith & Wesson.  This is about Lippo Group."

In a press conference with stunning political implications, 
President Bill Clinton attempted to divert attention from his
ethical and legal scandals by attacking American gun owners,
their safety and their rights.

"The Clinton proposals mean no hunting, no self-defense and no
safety," said Mrs. Tanya K. Metaksa, Executive Director of the
National Rifle Association Institute for Legislative Action. 

"President Clinton's proposals for trigger locks on all firearms
encourage all Americans to abandon armed, lawful self-defense in
our homes, including federal law enforcement agents.  Moreover,
his proposal to ban any bullet that would, as he put it, 'cut
through a vest like a hot knife through butter,' will ban hunting
with rifles in the United States of America, period.

"The scope of Clinton's schemes is startling.  These are
desperation tactics by a President embroiled in ethical and legal
scandals.  This is not about Smith & Wesson.  This is about Lippo
Group."

         GUN LOCKS: MORE GUN ACCIDENTS, NO SELF-DEFENSE

"Manufacturers of trigger locks insist their products must not be
used on loaded guns.  NRA urges Congress and federal law
enforcement to heed the warning from one prominent manufacturer -- 
a warning emblazoned numerous times on both the lock and
packaging: 'WARNING!  DO NOT USE ON LOADED GUN!  Attempts to use
on a loaded gun may result in an accidental discharge.' (Emphasis
in original.)

"Therefore, President Clinton's proposal clearly undermines armed
self-defense in American homes.  For example, 75-year-old Dorothy
Cunningham and Marty Killinger, both grandmothers, recently saved
their lives with a handgun.  Four thugs cut their phone lines,
then attacked the Moses Lake, Washington, residents in their
home.  While one woman fended off the intruders with a pair of 
scissors, the other got her pistol -- kept unlocked and loaded in
her bedroom.  Had these women obeyed their president and heeded
the warnings of lock manufacturers, they would have had to get
the key to the lock, get the locked gun, unlock the gun, load the
gun, and hope that four attackers would have given them time to
do it all.  That's not just nonsense.  That's dangerous.

"The answer to safety is three-fold: training, training and
training.  The NRA has spent $100 million in the last 8 years
teaching Americans firearms safety.  NRA has provided, through
our network of 35,000 instructors, training to more than 5
million people.  NRA training saves lives.  According to the
National Safety Council, the number of fatal firearms accidents
among children in 1995 (latest available data) represents a 64%
decrease from an all-time-high in 1975.  The fatal firearms
accident rate is at an all-time low, since record keeping began
in 1903."

                    IMPACT ON LAW ENFORCEMENT

"It is irresponsible for the President of the United States to
ask law enforcement officers to lock their guns.  This proposal
is anti-police, period.   

"NRA is urging that law enforcement call NRA police trainers to
prevent the Clinton proposal from costing them their lives and
their families' safety.  Moreover, we will make available to law
enforcement officers, free of charge, information on the award-
winning Eddie Eagle Gun Safety program.  This accident avoidance
program has reached more than 9 million children.  Law
enforcement officers should call 1-800-392-8683.    

                       RIFLE HUNTING BAN

"Every big game hunting round used in North America will be
banned by President Clinton's proposal and officers will not be
protected," said Mrs. Metaksa.  "No police officer in the United
States has ever been fatally shot through a protective vest with
a handgun bullet designed to penetrate protective materials.  THE
NUMBER IS ZERO.

"The president skirts the real problem -- cop-killers -- the two-
legged variety.  Persons with prior criminal histories are
involved in the majority of homicides of law enforcement
officers," Mrs. Metaksa said.  "During the last ten years, 73% of
those involved in officer killings had prior criminal arrests,
56% had been convicted of criminal offenses, and 23% were
actually on parole or probation when the officers were killed. 

             BAN ON SELF-DEFENSE BY LEGAL RESIDENTS

"The Kennedy/Durbin initiative, endorsed this morning by the
President, will essentially identify for criminals victims who
are barred by law from armed self-defense.  It's like placing a
newspaper ad saying, 'I don't have a gun; come get me.'

"This threatens legal U.S. citizens who might look or sound
foreign.  Criminals will assume they cannot own a gun and
therefore cannot defend themselves.  

"We saw two years ago in Florida a rash of tourist attacks --
visitors being targeted the moment they left the airport.  Law
enforcement observed that this was not surprising, because
criminals knew tourists were unlikely to be armed.

"People come to America for fundamental freedoms.  One of those
freedoms is the right to protect yourself and your family.   NRA
must protect the right to protect ourselves."

                           -- nra -- 

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.891FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 09 1997 20:40111
March 5, 1997

CALIFORNIA

As the week came to a close for the California State Legislature
so did the period to introduce bills.  Look for committee
hearings to begin soon.

AB 136 (VILLARAIGOSA) and AB 247 (SCOTT): Both are NRA-opposed
bills seeking  to repeal state firearms preemption thus opening
the door to a "patchwork quilt" of local gun control laws.

AB 304 (VILLARAIGOSA and SCOTT): This legislation attempts to
increase the penalty for carrying without a permit in a vehicle. 
Presently, this violation carries a misdemeanor whereas passage
of AB 304 would raise the charge to a felony.

AB 488 (CALDERA): A bill that would require the Department of
Justice to maintain the California "Junk Guns" Roster, listing
firearms the Attorney General deems unsafe, and attaching a
criminal penalty for supplying, selling, or transferring these
firearms.

SB 146 (JOHNSTON): Aimed at Isleton Police Chief Eugene Byrd, a
strong supporter of "Right to Carry", SB 146 would restrict a
police chief from issuing concealed carry permits outside the
city over which he or she presides.  Current law allows chiefs to
issue permits to residents of the county in which the city is
located.  

SB 500 (POLANCO): Not to be outdone by Assemblyman Caldera's AB
488, Senator Polanco introduced SB 500, which would ban the
manufacture, sale, or possession of so called "Saturday Night
Specials".  SB 500, if successful, would apply only to  firearms
manufactured after enactment.     

SB 513 (HAYDEN) and AB 532 (KNOX): These measures would limit the
purchase of any firearm, capable of being concealed, to one every
30 days.  Law enforcement agencies and individual law enforcement
officers would be exempt under this legislation, as would the
purchase of antique firearms or bulk purchases from real estate
sales.  

It is critical that gun owners, family members and friends
contact the members of the Assembly Public Safety Committee and
Senate Public Safety Committee respectively and urge them to
oppose these measures.   All of the telephone numbers are located
in the (916) area code:

Assembly Public Safety Committee

Robert Hertzberg (Ch.)          445-7644
Jan Goldsmith (V. Ch.)        445-2484
Dion Aroner                   445-7554
Scott Baugh                   445-6233
Larry Bowler                  445-7402
George House                  445-7906
Sheila James Kuehl            445-4956
Diane Martinez                445-7852
Carole Midgen                 445-8077
Kevin Murray                  445-8800
Grace Napolitano              445-0965
Rod Pacheco                   445-0854
Carl Washington               445-7486

Senate Public Safety Committee

John Vasconcellos (Ch.)       445-9740
John Burton                   445-1412
Quentin Kopp                  445-0503
Bruce McPherson               445-5843
Richard Polanco               445-3456
Richard Rainey                445-6083
Adam Schiff                   445-4032
Diane Watson                  445-5215

EDDIE EAGLE ON THE MOVE: Assembly Concurrent Resolution 3
(Wright), which encourages educational institutions to promote
the use of NRA's award winning Eddie Eagle Gun Safety Program,
passed out of the Assembly Rules Committee with unanimous
approval.  The resolution now moves to the Assembly floor.

NRA BACKED RANGE PROTECTION LEGISLATION INTRODUCED: Identical to
last session's SB 2069, Senator Ray Haynes has introduced SB 517,
which would exempt established shooting ranges from noise control
ordinances or nuisance actions brought against them by neighbors
who acquired property adjacent to a range after it was approved
for use.  Though last year's bill was vetoed by Governor Wilson,
we are working with his staff to overcome any reservations.

Please contact your Assembly member and ask them to support ACR 3
and SB 517!

PROPOSED LAND GRAB LOOMS: Due to an overwhelming turnout at the
last public hearing in Barstow, The Bureau of Land Management has
scheduled another hearing next week to discuss the U.S. Army's
proposal to expand the National Training Center at Fort Irwin by
withdrawing over 300,000 acres of public land.  Currently, a
large portion of this land is used by hunters and recreational
shooters.  It is important that hunters and sportsmen attend to
express their concern.  The hearing will be held Thursday, March
6, at 7:00 p.m., in the City Council Chambers, located at 220
East Mountainview Ave. in Barstow.  For further information
please contact  NRA's Sacramento Office at (916) 446-2455.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.892FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 09 1997 20:4138
March 5, 1997

MONTANA

HB 314--(Simpkins-R)--This bill would encourage school districts
to establish and maintain a firearms safety education course. 
This bill has passed the House and is scheduled for a hearing in
the Senate Education Committee on March 10.

HB 352--(Sliter-R)--This bill would immunize owner's of stolen
property, including firearms, from liability for harm, injury or
damage arising out of the use of the article stolen.  This bill
is in response to a ruling issued last summer by the Montana
Supreme Court which held that a firearm owner is liable for
injury caused with their stolen firearm if the firearm had not
been stored in such a way as to preclude theft and subsequent
injury.  This bill has passed the House and is scheduled for a
hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee on March 10.  

HB 429--(Wells-R)--This bill would reduce the number of places in
Montana where concealed weapons are prohibited, such as banks and
businesses with liquor licenses.  It also states that the
Governor shall be required to attempt to negotiate reciprocity
agreements with other states.  Currently, the Governor is only
encouraged to enter into such agreements.  This bill has passed
the House and is scheduled for a hearing before the Senate
Judiciary Committee on March 29.

Please contact your State Senator and urge their support of these
pro-gun measures.  For information on how to reach your Senator,
please call (406) 444-4800. 

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.893FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 09 1997 20:41129
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly
 
             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No. 9                                       March 4, 1997

D.C. Officer's 'Executioners' Had Long Records, Chief Says

     Three men charged with the execution-style murder of an off-
duty District of Columbia police officer last week all had
extensive police records, according to authorities.  Two were
free on pretrial release at the time of the crime, police say.

      Officer Oliver Wendell Smith Jr.'s murder in the parking
lot outside his apartment in neighboring Prince George's County,
Md., outraged the area's law enforcement community.  Another D.C.
officer was murdered last month.

       Prince George's County Police Chief John Farrell said the
trio executed Smith, 27, after they found his badge and service
handgun in the course of robbing him.  Forced face-down on the
pavement, he was shot three times in the back of the head.  His
wallet, pistol and badge were stolen.

     Farrell, who has been outspoken about pretrial release of
violent offenders in his crime-plagued county, called Officer
Smith's killing a "brutal, senseless murder."  The officer left a
wife and 5-year-old son.

     Police quickly arrested three suspects and recovered the
alleged murder weapon from an auto driven by the suspected
killer, Antwan Delonta Brown, 23.  He has prior arrests for drug-
related crimes and illegal weapons possession, according to
police. 

     Anthony Allen Crowley, 38, another man arrested, had at
least 12 prior criminal arrests and was free on bond on drug and
weapons charges, police said.  The third suspect, Donovan Shawn
Strickland, 29, was on pretrial release for burglary and
assaulting an officer, police said.  He had at least 15 prior
arrests.

     "Chief Farrell is right," said NRA's chief lobbyist, Tanya
K. Metaksa.  "Officer Smith's death was senseless.  And it shows
gun bans don't work.  All three suspects in the shooting were
 banned' from owning guns.  The only way to protect police, and
all Americans,  is to banish known violent criminals to prison."


CrimeStrike Endorses Victims' Rights
Proposal In Maryland Legislature

     NRA CrimeStrike, which assisted in voter passage of crime
victims' rights amendment to the Maryland state constitution in
1994, was in Annapolis last week to support passage of enabling
legislation.

     "NRA CrimeStrike and the 50,000 NRA members in Maryland are
proud to be part of the diverse coalition that helped pass the
Victims' Bill of Rights, and we are happy to support HB 768,"
CrimeStrike State Legislative Affairs Manager Susan Misiora told
the House Judiciary Committee.

     "With the passage of HB 768, the victims of crime will have
the knowledge to exercise their rights, and government officials
have the authority, and the duty, to facilitate them," she 
also said.  Twenty-nine states have approved crime victims' right
laws, eight of them in referendums last November.

D.C. Police Chief Means Business

     Washington, D.C. Police Chief Larry D. Soulsby, under orders
to improve the District's crime fighting ability, may be on to
something.  Monday the chief said the city must build more
prisons to enable it to incarcerate "those violent criminals we
remove from the streets."  The District is infamous for it's
revolving prison doors.

     Soulsby, who was given new powers last week, acted quickly
to redeploy more officers to the street and forced several top-
level officers into retirement.
     
Texas Gov. Bush Seeks Options

     The U.S. Supreme Court's Feb. 19 decision holding
unconstitutional Florida's attempts to retroactively deny earned
early release credits for prison inmates has Texas Gov. George W.
Bush looking for alternatives to deal with violent offenders and
sex offenders slated to get early releases from the state's
prisons.  

      A Bush aide said the Florida ruling appeared to doom a
legislative plan to give the state parole board veto power over
early releases for inmates eligible because of  a combination of
time served and early release credits.  

     More than 80,000 inmates eventually will be eligible for
release under the "good time" credit programs that have been
eliminated for new inmates over the past seven years.  The state
senate passed the bill giving the parole board veto power over
early releases in January.  

Senate Bill Exempts Prisons From RFRA

     S. 206, a measure that would exempt incarcerated persons
from the terms of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA)
passed by Congress in 1993, was introduced in the U.S. Senate on
Jan. 28.

     RFRA's passage  was opposed by many in the corrections
community because they correctly anticipated it would prompt
frivolous prison inmate litigation in the name of religious
freedom.  Efforts to attach the amendment to the original bill
four years ago failed narrowly.

                  A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
     Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org.
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.894FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 09 1997 20:4125
March 7, 1997

Hawaii: HB 233, the NRA-backed bill allowing transportation of
handguns for hunting passed the House.  HB 233 now moves to the
Senate Economic Development Committee for consideration. Members:
Please call your State Senators and urge them to support HB 233. 

Kansas: HB 2159, NRA-backed Right to Carry has been reported out
of the House Federal and State Affairs Committee.  As early as
Monday, the full House could consider HB 2159. Members: Please
contact Governor Graves at (913) 296-3232, even if you have
called before and encourage him to support HB 2159.

Mississippi: HB 33, NRA-backed right to carry reform legislation
has passed the Senate, but must now go back to the House for
concurrence.  Members: Please call your State Representatives at
(601) 359-3770 and urge them to concur with the Senate version of
HB 33. 

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.895FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Mar 11 1997 15:00114
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 9                                             3/7/97

               PRESIDENT'S PLACE IN HISTORY SECURE

     If there was somehow any doubt that President Bill Clinton
is the most anti-gun President in our history, it was erased this
week.  On Wednesday, the President took a number of steps
consistent with his hostility toward law-abiding gun owners. 
First, in urging Congress to pass his national trigger lock bill,
Clinton directed all federal agencies to require trigger locks to
be issued with every issued handgun.  In pure political
posturing, the President ignored the facts that firearms are used
2.5 million times annually for self-defense (and trigger locks
would render them useless) and that trigger lock manufacturers
warn against using the devices on loaded guns.  Additionally, Mr.
Clinton turned a blind eye toward NRA's safety and training
efforts, which have reached more than five million Americans in
the last eight years, and have driven down the fatal firearms
accident rate to an all-time low (National Center for Health
Statistics).  Through our national network of 35,000 certified
instructors, NRA provides more training than any organization in
the U.S. -- including the military!  It's time the President
acknowledged that training and education, not political
grandstanding, stand at the heart of firearms safety.

     Next, the President stated his support for a bill introduced
by Sens. Kennedy (D-Mass.) and Durbin (D-Ill.) to prohibit
foreign visitors from lawfully purchasing or possessing firearms. 
Unfortunately, this proposal is inconsistent with the very fabric
of our nation, that causes millions of foreigners to move to the
United States specifically so they may enjoy the U.S.A.'s unique,
individual freedoms.  What's more, the Kennedy-Durbin bill would
threaten legal U.S. citizens who may look or sound foreign, and
prohibit individuals legally within our borders from exercising
their means of self-defense.  According to Kennedy, "There is no
legitimate reason why someone who is in the United States
temporarily should be able to purchase or carry a firearm here."
(New York Times, 2/28/97).  That's easy for Kennedy to say, as he
has enjoyed the protection of a corps of armed bodyguards!

     Finally, the President renewed his push for a ban on so-
called "cop-killer" bullets.  This latest plea came despite the
fact that not one police officer has ever been fatally shot
through a protective vest with a handgun bullet designed to
defeat these vests.  The result of such a law would be the
virtual elimination of every self-defense, hunting and target
round used in North America! Again, demonstrating his inclination
to score political points rather than address the real problem,
the President was silent on the fact that in the last 10 years,
73% of those involved in officer killings had prior criminal
arrests, 56% had been convicted of criminal offenses and 23% were
on parole or probation at the time of the killing.  Fraternal
Order of Police (FOP) president, Gilbert Gallegos, who recently
pledged his group would not support additional gun control
schemes, sang a different song this week.  When asked about the
Clinton bullet ban, Gallegos exhorted, "Let's get this issue
resolved once and for all -- and to hell with special interests!"
(U.S. Newswire, 3/5/97).

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HEARINGS:  This week, the House Subcommittee on
Crime held hearings on the misguided Lautenberg law, that
prohibits those convicted of certain misdemeanor crimes of
domestic violence from possessing firearms.  Rep. Schumer wasted
no time in attacking the NRA, accusing us of creating a
controversy to drive a wedge between law enforcement groups and
victims' rights organizations.  This allegation was rebuffed by
Rep. George Gekas (R-Pa.) who pointed out how supportive NRA is,
and has been, of law enforcement.  Rep. Bob Barr (R-Ga.)
accurately noted how these hearings should have been held prior
to Lautenberg being rammed through Congress at the last minute. 
Related bills have already been filed in the U.S. House on this
subject, and we'll keep you posted on these measures as more
information becomes available.

FORK OVER THOSE FORMS:  HCI is suing BATF to require the
disclosure of information from multiple-handgun purchase forms
(Center to Prevent Handgun Violence [CPHV] v. U.S. Department of
Treasury).  CPHV (the "educational" arm of HCI) claims that,
under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), BATF is required to
release the names of the licensees who report multiple sales
along with the serial numbers of the handguns sold.  The Treasury
Dept. and BATF are arguing that the identities are being properly
withheld under the exemption in the FOIA concerning privileged
commercial information.

A LOOK AT THE STATES:

Hawaii: HB 233, the NRA-backed bill allowing transportation of
handguns for hunting passed the House.  HB 233 now moves to the
Senate Economic Development Committee for consideration. Members:
Please call your State Senators and urge them to support HB 233. 

Kansas: HB 2159, NRA-backed Right to Carry has been reported out
of the House Federal and State Affairs Committee.  As early as
Monday, the full House could consider HB 2159.  Members: Please
contact Governor Graves at (913) 296-3232, even if you have
called before and encourage him to support HB 2159. 

Mississippi: HB 33, NRA-backed right to carry reform legislation
has passed the Senate, but must now go back to the House for
concurrence.  Members: Please call your State Representatives at
(601) 359-3770 and urge them to concur with the Senate version of
HB 33.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.896FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Mar 12 1997 17:2682
MARCH 10, 1997

CALIFORNIA LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITY

EDDIE EAGLE SET FOR A VOTE: On Monday, March 10, the Assembly was
expected to vote on ACR 3 (Wright), which encourages educational
institutions to promote the use of NRA's award winning Eddie
Eagle Gun Safety Program.  The resolution has caused an upheaval
within the Assembly Democratic Caucus, prompting five co-authors,
Alquist, Lempert, Martinez, Napolitano, and Shelly, to jump ship
because Eddie Eagle is an NRA program.  Assemblyman Caldera
announced yesterday his intention to offer hostile amendments
which would gut ACR 3 and viciously attack the National Rifle
Association.  Please contact your Assembly member on Monday
morning and urge them to support ACR 3 and reject Assemblyman
Caldera's amendments!

To Correct an error in last week's Fax Alert, mistakenly
identifying a range protection bill as a firearm rationing
proposal, please note the following:

SB 517 (HAYNES):  NRA-backed range protection legislation was
introduced last week by Senator Ray Haynes, an A+ rated defender
of our Second Amendment rights.  SB 517 is designed to protect
established shooting ranges from nuisance actions or noise
control ordinances brought against them by neighbors acquiring
property adjacent to the range after it was approved for use. 
Our apologies to Senator Haynes.  If you contacted him to
complain as a result of our error, we ask that you call and thank
him for his efforts to protect our ranges!  It is also important
to get in touch with your state senator and ask that he or she
support SB 517 !

SB 513 (HAYDEN) and AB 532 (KNOX): These measures both intend to
limit the purchase of any firearm, capable of being concealed, to
one every thirty days.  Call your state senator and assembly
member respectively and urge them to oppose these restrictive
measures!

SB 146 (JOHNSTON): On Tuesday, March 11, the Senate Criminal
Procedure Committee, will consider this bill, which will restrict
police chiefs from issuing concealed carry permits to residents
outside the city over which they preside.  Current law allows
chiefs to issue permits to residents of the county in which the
city is located.  SB 146 targets Isleton Police Chief, Eugene
Byrd, who strongly believes in an individual's right to self
defense.  Contact members of the Senate Criminal Procedure
Committee to express your opposition.  All phone numbers are in
the (916) area code:

John Vasconcellos (Ch.)       445-9740
Richard Rainey (V. Ch.)       445-6083
John Burton                   445-1412
Quentin Kopp                  445-0503
Bruce McPherson               445-5843
Richard Polanco               445-3456
Adam Schiff                   445-5976
Diane Watson                  445-5215

LOS ANGELES LEGISLATIVE ALERT: On Tuesday, March 11, the Los
Angeles County Board of Supervisors will hold a meeting to
discuss sweeping gun control measures which include such items as
dealer restrictions and bans on the sale of handguns in Los
Angeles County.  It is critical that gun owners, family members,
and friends attend to voice their concerns.  The meeting will
take place at 10:30 am, in room 381 of the Hall of
Administration, located at 500 West Temple St. in Los Angeles. 
If you are unable to attend the meeting please call Supervisors
Don Knabe (213) 974-4444, Yvonne Burke (213) 974-2222, and Gloria
Molina (213) 974-4111 and ask that they oppose this proposal. 
For more information, please contact Supervisor Michael
Antonovich at (213) 974-5555.

NEXT WEEK: Stay tuned for a complete summary of the flood of
anti-gun bills introduced to the legislature.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.897FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Mar 12 1997 17:2617
March 11, 1997

Kansas Legislative Update

This morning the Kansas House of Representatives passed 
HB 2159, NRA-backed Right to Carry legislation.  It was 
approved on a vote of 78-44.  The measure now moves to 
the Senate for consideration.  Members: Please begin calling 
your State Senators and urging them to support HB 2159 when 
it comes before them.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.898FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Mar 12 1997 17:26100
March 11, 1997

Virginia -- Fairfax County

During the recently concluded regular session of the Virginia
legislature, a team of professional lobbyists told state lawmakers that
new laws were needed restricting the rights of you and other law-abiding
gun owners in Fairfax County.

These high-priced Richmond insiders said that you just couldn't be
trusted to carry a firearm in certain areas of the county - even if you
had a valid concealed handgun permit - and that the Fairfax County
government should have the power to regulate where you could and could
not carry a firearm.

Who picked up the tab for the salaries and expenses of these well-paid
lobbyists?

     Handgun Control Inc.?

     Virginians Against Handgun Violence? 

     Some other anti-gun group?

     No.  You did.

     Actually, you and your tax dollars did.

That's right.  During this session of the State Legislature, your Board
of Supervisors actually sent county-paid lobbyists to Richmond to help
pass laws restricting your rights in Fairfax County.

Funded by your tax dollars, these professional lobbyists did everything
they could to get new anti-gun bills passed into law - they even
testified before committees in support of legislation aimed at
restricting your rights. 

And despite our best efforts to stop them, they managed to twist enough
arms to get two anti-gun bills, SB 763 and SB 978, through the
legislature, giving the Board of Supervisors sweeping new power to
create special areas within the county where firearms are banned.    
     
The supervisors say they need these new laws because of an epidemic of
gang activity in Fairfax County.  But how will limiting your rights stop
gang members from breaking the law?

It won't.  Everything these gangs might do with firearms is already
illegal under current state law.

In fact, all these new laws will do is create traps throughout the
county in which otherwise law-abiding gun owners will be ensnared.  

Make no mistake, the Fairfax County government is trying to restrict
your rights because they have done nothing about the gang problem in the
county except deny that it existed until now.  
     
We must send a message that we will not accept the blame for their
failure.  And we must take action now to ensure that these bills do not
become law!   

Please call Governor Allen at (804) 786-2211 and let him know you're
from Fairfax and you want him to veto SB 763 and SB 978.

And while you're at it, why don't you call the members of the Fairfax
County Board of Supervisors and ask them why they don't trust you with a
firearm, and why they're using tax dollars to lobby against the same
law-abiding citizens who pay their salaries.  You can reach the members
of the board at the following telephone numbers:

     Katherine Hanley, Chairman:                  324-2321
     Sharon Bulova, Braddock District:            425-9300
     Stuart Mendelsohn, Dranesville District:     356-0551
     Robert Dix, Hunter Mill District:            478-0283
     Dana Kauffman, Lee District:                 971-6262
     Penelope Gross, Mason District:              256-7717
     Gerry Hyland, Mount Vernon District:         780-7518
     Gerald Connolly, Providence District:        560-6946
     Elaine McConnell, Springfield District:      451-8873
     Michael Frey, Sully District:                378-9393

Please call today. The Governor will be taking action on these bills any
day now, and he needs to hear from you.

Sincerely,

Tanya K. Metaksa
NRA-ILA Executive Director

P.S. County government officials have already told the local press that
these new laws are just a first-step in their efforts to restrict
Fairfax gun owners.  We must stop them now, before it's too late! Please
call Governor Allen at (804)786-2211 and ask him to veto SB 763 and SB
978.  

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.899FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 16 1997 12:11128
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly

             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No.  10                                    March 11, 1997

'3-Strikes' Opponents Mount New Attack On Popular Laws

     The Washington-based Justice Policy Institute has issued a
study that claims that states without "Three Strikes and You're
Out" laws had "more dramatic" declines in both violent and
nonviolent crime in 1994 and 1995 than did 13 states that adopted
the laws in 1993 and 1994, the Los Angeles Times reported last
Friday.

     At least 22 states and the federal government have three-
strikes laws.  While they are all different, typically they
provide sentences of 25 years to life for those convicted of a
third serious or violent felony offense.

     The new report, the Los Angles newspaper said, claims that
crime fell by 4.6% in the states without "three-strikes" laws
against a 1.7% decline in states with the laws.

     The report wasn't embraced by everyone.

     "We haven't seen the study, but it puzzles us that anti-
incarceration groups continue to attempt to convince the public
that our prisons are full of non-violent offenders, and that not
locking up criminals can reduce crime," said CrimeStrike's
Elizabeth Swasey.  "Those are preposterous propositions.

     "The biggest problem with sentence-enhancing laws is that in
many states such as Georgia (see related story), some courts and
prosecutors seem reluctant to use them," Swasey said.  "That
ought to make the folks at the Justice Policy Institute happy,
but it disappoints those of use who think habitual violent
criminals should be removed from society."

MD Bank Robbery Suspect Faces '3-Strikes' Prosecution

     Accused Maryland bank robber Frank James Hackett, 42, didn't
seem terribly concerned when police collared him during  a bank
robbery attempt  in Landover Hills Jan. 22.

     "That's OK.  The courts will let me out, and I'll rob
again," Hackett allegedly told an arresting officer, reports the
Washington Times.

     But Prince George's County State's Attorney Jack Johnson has
a surprise for Hackett.  Johnson says he will seek a life-without-
parole conviction against the oft-arrested criminal 
under Maryland's version of "Three Strikes and You're Out."

     Hackett has three prior robbery convictions, beginning with
an armed robbery in Virginia in 1973, Johnson says.  He has two
more from the District of Columbia, and is now under indictment
on 10 felony counts in the attempted bank robbery. 

Georgia's Gov. Miller Angered Over Illegal Prison Sentences

     Georgia's courts aren't always following the law in handing
down at least the minimum 10-year sentence to criminals convicted
of committing any of seven violent crimes identified in the
Georgia Sentencing Reform Act, and Gov. Zell Miller isn't happy
about it, reports the Atlanta Constitution.

     A check of state records found that of the 600 persons
pleading guilty or convicted of the named violations since the
law became effective as a voter-approved constitutional amendment
on Jan. 1, 1995, 86 defendants received less than the 10 years
required under the law.

     After Gov. Miller and the attorney general's office notified
the judges and prosecutors involved and ordered the sentencing
corrected, the newspaper reports, only two were changed to
conform with the mandatory sentencing law.  

     In 35 cases, the felons "were resentenced in a way they
could avoid the mandatory 10-year term," and three, all sex
offenders, had their charges dropped entirely, according to the
report.  In about 50 cases nothing was done.  

     "This is why the public is outraged with the criminal
justice system," Miller told the newspaper. 

Paroled Indiana Killer Faces Murder Charge In New Haven

     An Indiana man paroled last summer despite a 40-year
sentence for the 1978 murder a 60-year-old Fort Wayne woman is
accused of the shooting death of a 31-year-old man in New Haven,
Ind.,reports the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette.

     Bryan Lamar Fitzhugh, 38, is charged with the burglary-
murder of Henry J. Osterholt, 31, the father of a 3-year-old son. 
A second man was arrested as an alleged accomplice in the
burglary of Osterholt's mobile home, authorities said.

     Police said Fitzhugh has an extensive criminal record that
began as a juvenile, including convictions for attempted child
molesting, burglary, sexual assault and robbery.  An Indiana
prison policy granting a day of credit for each day of good
behavior apparently allowed his early parole.

     "This murder was absolutely senseless," the slain man's
brother, Mark Osterholt, told the newspaper. 

                       ********************
    Two more convicted killers targeted in CrimeStrike's "Keep
   Killers in Prison" campaign have been denied early paroles.
  Martin Dexter Drews, a Californian, and Ohio's Roger E. Knight
        will both have to serve at least five more years.
                       ********************

                 A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
     Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org.
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available. 

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.900FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 16 1997 12:1125
March 13, 1997

Attention Colorado Gun Owners!!

SB 96, "Right to Carry" reform legislation, is expected to be on
the Senate floor as early as tommorrow morning, Friday, March 14,
1997.

The bill sponsor, Sen. Ken Chlouber, has worked tirelessly with
the NRA and other supporters in the Colorado Senate to develop
effective "shall issue" language that will advance the rights of
law abiding gun owners throughout the State.

Please call your State Senator and urge him/her to support SB 96
with all NRA supported amendments.

Republican Senators: 303/866-4866
Democratic Senators: 303/866-4865

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.901FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 16 1997 12:11406
                          NRA GRASSFIRE!
              The Newsletter for NRA-ILA Volunteers
                 1-800-392-8683 * groots@nra.org

March 1997                                         Vol. 3., No. 3

                      GRASSFIRE IN GUARDIAN

   NRA Grassfire is moving!  Beginning in May, NRA Grassfire will
be a standard feature in NRA's new monthly magazine, the American
Guardian.  Within the pages of the Guardian, you'll now be able
to find all the latest legislative and political information
you've come to expect from NRA Grassfire.  This change is
consistent with our ongoing efforts to reduce the costs
associated with the newsletter and to ensure this critically
important legislative and political information reaches as many
NRA members as possible.  Those NRA-ILA Volunteers who previously
received Grassfire free each month and wish to continue receiving
it, have three options.  First, they may switch their current NRA
magazine to the American Guardian.  Second, they may pick up the
American Guardian (and thus, Grassfire) as a second magazine
service for $15.00 per year.  And finally, of course, Grassfire
will continue to be posted monthly on NRA's web site
(http://www.nra.org).  We regret any inconvenience this may
cause, and believe that by expanding the readership of NRA
Grassfire, we'll all be better equipped to meet the challenges
and opportunities we'll face in the future.  To switch your
magazine or to receive the American Guardian as a second
magazine, call NRA's Membership Div. at 800-672-3888.

                    THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK --
                    AT LAW-ABIDING GUN OWNERS!

   What unfortunately is becoming par for the course for the
anti-gunners has once again occurred -- blaming law-abiding gun
owners for the criminal act of a deranged gunman.  In light of
the recent Empire State Building shooting, the hues and cries for
more restrictions on our rights have been reverberating across
the country.  Make no mistake, America's law-abiding gun owners
are under siege!  We are again being scapegoated for the act of a
criminal, and the anti-gunners' propaganda machine is in full
swing!  By now, you're familiar with the story; a foreign
national apparently legally residing in the U.S. purchased a
semi-automatic firearm in Florida that was subsequently used in a
shooting in New York City.  While the anti-gunners are
highlighting this tragedy as an example of the need for new
restrictions on our rights, intellectual honesty dictates this
incident should be used to highlight the failures of a number of
gun control laws already on the books. 

   Failure #1:  Florida's three-day waiting period/background
check.  Since the gunman produced proof of residency (even though
he did not reside in Florida for the 90 days required of an alien
under the Gun Control Act of 1968), nothing showed up to prohibit
the purchase. Failure #2:  Federal prohibition against purchasing
a handgun outside of one's state of legal residence.  Failure #3: 
New York City's licensing & registration schemes.  Despite the
anti-gunners' claims that gun registration and licensing will
prevent similar shootings, this case obviously showed the
failures of these placebos.  Failure #4: New York City's elitist,
discriminatory carry permit system that renders average citizens
defenseless by denying them their means to self-defense -- a
right that in New York, is reserved only for the well connected.

   Unfortunately, intellectual honesty isn't a mainstay of the
anti-gunners, and a number of gun control schemes are now being
promoted by the President or have been introduced in the U.S.
Congress.  For example, since his "State of the Union" address
earlier this month,  President Clinton has been repeatedly
calling for an expansion of the Brady Act to prevent teenage
criminals from obtaining firearms and a national "trigger lock"
law requiring all handguns to be sold with one of these
mechanical devices.  In addition to the following bills pending
in Congress, a licensing scheme and a proposal to prohibit the
possession of firearms by non-citizens are also being bandied
about by Rep. Schumer and his ilk.  In the U.S. House, we're
facing: gun registration (H.R. 186); increased federal
"standards" on handguns (H.R. 116); a ban on toy guns (H.R. 361);
prohibition on possession or transfer of "non-sporting" handguns
(H.R. 476); "junk guns" ban (H.R. 492); gun rationing (H.R. 12);
handgun & handgun ammunition ban (H.R. 787) and expansion of
regulatory powers of BATF over guns (H.R. 788). In the Senate,
the picture is similarly hostile:  "junk guns" ban (S. 70); ammo
bans (S. 112, S. 132, S. 136); ammo taxes (S. 133 & S. 137) and
licensing of manufacturers of ammunition (S. 134).  With so much
at stake, it's critical that we prepare to go all out in
opposition to these measures.  Encourage your family and friends
to join NRA-ILA's Grassroots Network, and to contact their
lawmakers on these issues.

                       STONEWALLING AT CDC

   On February 13, the House Labor, Health and Human Services
Appropriations Subcommittee questioned Dr. Mark Rosenberg, head
of the CDC's National Center for Injury Prevention & Control
(NCIPC), the agency that has used your tax dollars to fund anti-
gun "studies."  Dr. Rosenberg was asked why Dr. Arthur
Kellermann, a CDC grant recipient for many such "studies," failed
to conform to the Center's policy requiring all CDC-funded
research data to be shared externally for review by his peers.
Dr. Rosenberg said Kellermann was in the process of "cleaning up
his data" (but he didn't mention that Kellermann's conclusions
were already released two years ago!).  That drew a pointed
question by Rep. Jay Dickey (R-Ark.), who asked whether "cleaning
up his data" was tantamount to "sanitizing" his data.  Despite
assurances this would be rectified, Rosenberg didn't give a date
for the data's release, though last year it was promised by the
end of 1996.

   And speaking of CDC...Despite a prohibition on the use of CDC
funds to "advocate or promote gun control," it seems that the
NCIPC is defying the intent of the law.  The CDC released a
"study" highlighting the alleged disparity among "industrial
nations" in child deaths caused by gunfire.  The piece concludes
(surprise!) that the rate of death among U.S. children far
outpaces the death rates of other nations.  Of course, the
"research" is flawed in a number of ways, not the least of which
is that of the 25 "industrialized countries" examined, some of
them aren't industrialized, while others aren't even countries! 
Moreover, they treated these 25 unrelated "countries" from four
continents as if they were a single country for comparison to the
U.S., simply adding up deaths and populations to produce a death
rate dominated by Japan, which made up one-quarter of the
population.  As usual, when it comes to the CDC's activities on
this front the devil's in the details.  CDC contends they're not
promoting gun control with these "studies" because they're not
directly advocating any specific legislation (Fed. Register, 
2-19-97, p. 7462). They are merely producing data which contribute
nothing to the scientific study of homicide or suicide, but
plenty to the rhetoric of anti-gun media and politicians.  Please
call your U.S. Rep. & Senators at 202/224-3121 and urge them to
inform CDC that not using our tax dollars for gun control means
just that!

                     CARRY CO-SPONSORS NEEDED

   H.R. 339 -- Rep. Cliff Stearns' (R-Fla.) national right to
carry reciprocity bill -- is turning out to be an extremely hot
issue.  As you'll recall, this bill would require recognition of
any state-issued carry permit by all 50 states.  In order to
ensure the timely advancement of H.R. 339, it is crucial that as
many Representatives as possible sign on as co-sponsors of this
measure.  Please copy and distribute the enclosed petition in
support of H.R. 339, and return it to NRA-ILA so we may deliver
them to lawmakers on Capitol Hill. 

                 NRA'S WINTER BOARD MEETINGS END

   At the NRA's winter Board of Directors' meeting a vote to
amend the NRA's bylaws to allow the Board's Executive Cmte. to
suspend NRA officers by a simple majority, rather than by a
three-fourths vote, failed to gain the two-thirds majority needed
under the laws of New York (where the Association is chartered). 
Furthermore, a majority of Board members supported the
Association's legal counsel in his interpretation of the two-
thirds provision.  The Board also unanimously approved several
resolutions on legislative issues, including one in favor of
state right-to-carry legislation and others reaffirming the
Board's opposition to anti-gun legislation -- including firearms
registration and the extension of the Brady Act's waiting period. 
The meetings, conducted mainly in open session, were attended by
a large number of journalists and by NRA members from several
states.  The NRA Board meet again in Seattle on May 5-6,
following the election of new Directors at the Annual Meeting of
Members.

                     NEWS FROM CAPITOL HILL 

  Rep. Lee Hamilton (D-Ind.) has announced he won't seek re-
election in 1998.  In the 104th Congress, Hamilton defied his
party's leadership and the President by voting for and lobbying
his fellow Democrats in support of repealing the Clinton gun ban,
and he was a leader in our campaign to defund the NCIPC.  In
other House news: pro-gun Rep. Bill McCollum (R-Fla.), Chair of
the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and a rumored 1998 Senate
candidate, has decided to seek re-election to the U.S. House;
pro-gun stalwart Rep. Bob Inglis (R-S.C.) will run for the
Senate; Rep. Glenn Poshard (D-Ill.), a Clinton crime bill
supporter but Clinton gun ban opponent, will retire as will anti-
gunner Rep. Scott Klug (R-Wisc.).  On the Senate side, anti-
gunner John Glenn (D-Ohio) announced he'll retire in 1999.

                   DON'T HOLD YOUR BREATH, IRS

   In 1995, after the NRA was instrumental in removing a number
of pro-Clinton/pro-gun control lawmakers from Congress, the IRS
"coincidentally" launched a Coordinated Examination Program (CEP)
against the NRA -- a far-reaching tax audit that lasts years.  In
addition to the incredible cost the Association has already
incurred to accommodate the CEP, the IRS recently suggested it
may want NRA to turn over its confidential membership lists.  The
agency was informed in no uncertain terms this wasn't going to
happen, and if necessary, we'd go to court to protect our lists. 
Is there a pattern of whom the IRS scrutinizes?  Well, a
Washington Times story (2/3/97) notes that NRA is "one of about a
dozen conservative groups that the IRS has chosen to audit since
1994."  All of these groups have opposed policies of the Clinton-
Gore Administration.

                       A LOOK AT THE STATES

   Below is a summary of what's happening in state legislatures
across the U.S.  If your state isn't listed, or you need more
information, call NRA-ILA at 1-800-392-8683.  In the meantime,
please contact your state lawmakers to make them aware of your
views on these measures.

Florida: The Sen. Criminal Justice Cmte. reported out SB 42,
requiring Florida to recognize valid out-of-state carry licenses. 
The legislature is set to convene on March 4.

Hawaii: Two bills are pending in the House Judiciary Cmte.  HB
339, a bill to replace the current discriminatory carry permit
system with a fair, non-discriminatory system, and HB 233, a bill
allowing the transportation of handguns for hunting.For more
information, contact the Hawaii Rifle Assoc. Hotline at (808)
261-2754.

Iowa: The House is expected to vote on a HF 142, a bill allowing
deer hunting with a handgun.

Kansas: On March 11, the Kansas House of Representatives passed
HB 2159, NRA-backed Right to Carry legislation.  It was approved
on a vote of 78-44.  The measure now moves to the Senate for
consideration.  Members: Please begin calling your State Senators
and urging them to support HB 2159 when it comes before them.

Massachusetts: Sunday hunting legislation (S-1031) has been
introduced by State Sen. Michael Knapik.  Please call Sen. Knapik
at (617) 722-1415 to thank him, and call your Sen. at (617) 722-
2000 in support of S-1031.

Nebraska: LB 350, NRA-backed range protection legislation, is
pending action by the Legislature.  At press time, LB 465, the
NRA-supported right to carry bill, was still pending
consideration by the Judiciary Cmte.

New Mexico: SB 676, NRA-backed right to carry legislation, passed
out of the Senate Public Affairs Cmte. and is awaiting action in
the Senate Judiciary and Finance Cmtes.

Ohio: HB 209, NRA-supported range protection legislation to
protect ranges from noise ordinances or nuisance actions aimed at
shutting them down, is in the House Cmte. on Local Govt. and
Townships. Also, a Sunday hunting bill is pending consideration
in the House Cmte. on Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Oklahoma: State Sen. Frank Shurden is currently making revisions
to the 1996 Shooting Range Protection Act.  Originally the
Oklahoma Department of Wildlife and Conservation was charged with
the responsibility of defining safety guidelines for shooting
ranges.  After receiving input from the NRA-ILA, the Oklahoma
Rifle Association and many sportsmen across the state, it was
determined  the Department of Wildlife and Conservation should be
relieved from any regulatory duties.

Oregon: At press time, a subcommittee of the House Judiciary
Cmte. was set to hear HB 2621, legislation exempting CHL holders
from the instant check system for handgun purchases, and HB 2622,
allowing Oregon to recognize valid out-of-state carry licenses
held by non-residents.

Rhode Island:  At the request of Gov. Almond and the State
Police, anti-gun State Rep. Bruce Long introduced 97H 6085 that
includes:  one-gun-a-month, the end of private gun transfers, and
creation a new gun regulation enforcement bureaucracy under the
State Police, containing a "Gun Czar."

Texas: SB 204, the NRA-backed right to carry reform bill, and HB
601, NRA-backed range protection, are pending in the Senate
Criminal Justice & House Civil Practices Cmtes., respectively. 

Virginia: The Legislature has adjourned, and took a number of
steps of concern to gun owners.  Anti-gun Circuit Court Judge
James Berry (who had denied permits to qualified Virginians) was
not renominated; carry permits will now be valid for five years
(up from two); and over 30 anti-gun bills and amendments were
defeated.  
Wisconsin: AJR 11, a bill to create a right to keep and bear arms
amendment to Wisconsin's Constitution, has been stalled in the
Sen. Judiciary Cmte. by Chairman Lynn Adelman (D-28th).  AJR 11
passed the House January 28th by an overwhelming margin (84-13),
but Chairman Adelman refused to bring the bill before his Cmte.
in time for Sen. passage before the February 18 deadline.  If the
bill had been passed by the Senate, Wisconsin's citizens could
have voted on the measure on March 4.  Now, Wisconsin gun owners
will have to wait at least until 1998 to vote on the amendment.

                        BYE-BYE "BUYBACK"

   Baltimore Mayor Kurt Schmoke has canceled his city's gun turn-
in program because of what he claims was "an organized effort to
undermine" it.  People were turning in new guns that cost less
than the $100 they received under the program as well as
nonfunctioning guns.  Moreover, some of the guns turned in were
by non-Baltimore residents.  $10,000 was paid for guns during the
turn-in period.  The matter is under police investigation.

                        MIAMI MALFEASANCE

   NBC's Feb. 12 broadcast of "News at Sunrise" contained a salvo
fired at the NRA by Miami Mayor Alex Penelas.  In response to
recent shootings in his city, the Mayor said he'd seek local gun
control laws in Dade County, and he didn't "care what the NRA
says."  Apparently, the Mayor doesn't care what Florida law says
either, as Florida currently has a firearms preemption statute
prohibiting local governments from enacting their own gun control
laws.  According to the report, Miami police have already set up
roadblocks to search for guns.  Chief Donald Warshaw noted, "We
are going to make life uncomfortable for people who have guns." 
One hopes the city's top law enforcement officer would
distinguish between those "who have guns" and those who have guns
illegally.

          NATION'S GOVERNORS SUPPORT VICTIMS' RIGHTS

   At their annual meeting in the beginning of February, the
National Governors' Association (NGA) approved a constitutional
victims' rights amendment without dissent.  The amendment
approved by the NGA ensures victims:  will know when their
assailants are going to trial or are up for parole; will receive
full restitution from an offender; and will be able to testify
about the impact the crime has had on their lives.  Any proposed
amendment to the U.S. Constitution requires a two-thirds majority
in both houses of Congress and must be ratified by three-fourths
of the states.  NRA CrimeStrike is a supporter of victims' rights
amendments to state constitutions, and applauds the NGA's action. 
Currently, 29 states have a victims' rights amendment, and
CrimeStrike will continue to push these amendments in states that
lack them.

                    CRIMESTRIKE PAROLE BLOCKS

   CrimeStrike volunteers are working to block paroles in Kansas,
Ohio and California.  Burle E. Hill is bidding for parole from
his conviction for murdering Velma D. Collins in Pittsburg,
Kans., on March 28, 1982.  Hill has served less than 15 years of
his life sentence for the suffocation killing of his children's
babysitter.  Scheduled for a March 3 parole hearing in Ohio is
Roger E. Knight, who plea-bargained a voluntary manslaughter
conviction in the 1992 strangulation death of his wife, Claudia,
in Franklin County.  Knight is serving a  7-to-25 year sentence. 
In California, CrimeStrike is assisting the family of Kenneth
Weston Hartford, who was stabbed to death in El Cajon by Martin
Dexter Drews on Dec. 30, 1983.  Drews, who has been granted
probation and parole in the past for other crimes, is now bidding
for release again.  For more information on CrimeStrike's parole
block efforts, call (800) 868-4411.

                   CLUBS RE-PRINT NRA GRASSFIRE

  Attention gun clubs and NRA State Associations!  Have you been
re-printing NRA Grassfire in your newsletters?  If not, please
feel free to take advantage of all the information contained
within these pages and share it with your members.  As long as
proper credit is given to NRA Grassfire, you're free to reproduce
its contents.  Remember, the legislative and political
information contained in NRA Grassfire is some of the most
current news coming out of headquarters, so we hope you'll take
advantage of this resource!

                     KEEP THOSE IDEAS COMING!

   Remember, in future issues of Grassfire, we'll be publishing
the best legislative and political ideas submitted by you -- the
NRA-ILA Volunteer.  Winning submissions will receive a
complimentary NRA-ILA baseball cap.

                 EDDIE EAGLE IN THE BUCKEYE STATE

  NRA's award-winning Eddie Eagle gun safety program has been
officially added to Cleveland's "Child Accident Prevention
Program," and will be implemented in all city schools.  Police
Chief Rocco M. Pollutro determined that a gun safety program was
needed and chose Eddie Eagle for this city-wide effort. In yet
another example of the strong relationship between the NRA and
law enforcement, Cleveland police officers will teach the program
to all children in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade.  With
the help of the American Legion Child Welfare Foundation and Ohio
Friends of NRA, the program will reach 40,000 children in 1997,
and this summer, officers will continue to teach Eddie's
lifesaving message to civic, religious, and other social groups.  

                            RTBAV NEWS

   Refuse To Be A VictimTM (RTBAV) is pleased to announce a
change in policy that enables men to apply for RTBAV instructor
certification. Additionally, in support of law enforcement
efforts around the country, seminar materials will be provided
free of charge to RTBAV Certified Instructors conducting the
seminar as part of their official law enforcement duties.  This
month, seminars will be held in California, Virginia and
Washington.  For more information about these improvements or for
details on upcoming seminars, please call 800-861-1166.

Permission to reprint all or portions of this publication
granted, duly noting "NRA Grassfire, March, 1997."  Copyright 
1997, NRA Grassfire, NRA Institute for Legislative Action, 
Fairfax, Virginia  22030.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.902FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 16 1997 12:1150
March 14, 1997

Update: CO KS MS NE NM OH

Colorado: The full Senate will soon consider SB 96, an NRA-
supported right to carry reform bill, which calls for
improvements to the current discretionary concealed handgun
permit system.  Early next week the Senate is expected to debate
several important NRA-backed amendments to this measure.
Members:Please contact your State Senators and urge them to
support the NRA-backed amendments to the bill and final passage
of SB 96. 

Kansas: HB 2159, NRA-backed Right to Carry passed the House
earlier this week on a vote of 78-44. The Senate Federal and
State Affairs Committee are expected to consider the measure very
soon. Members: Please call your State Senators and encourage them
to support HB 2159. 

Mississippi: HB 100, which includes NRA CrimeStrike language to
protect those who use legitimate self-defense from lawsuits by
criminals who are injured while committing a crime, has been
accepted by the Senate and now moves to the House for
concurrence.  Members: Please call your State Representatives at
(601) 359-3770 and urge them to vote to concur with the Senate
amendments to HB 100.  Also, please urge them to concur with the
Senate version of HB 33, right to carry reform legislation.  

Nebraska: LB 465, NRA-backed right to carry legislation, may soon
be considered by the full Legislature. Members: Please contact
your State Senators and urge them to support LB 465 without any
gutting amendments. 

New Mexico: The Senate Judiciary Committee has reported out SB
676, NRA-backed right to carry legislation, and the bill now
moves to the Senate floor for consideration. Members: Please
contact your State Senators this weekend at their capitol offices
and urge them to support SB 676. 

Ohio: HB 60, a bill establishing Sunday hunting is awaiting
action in the House Agriculture Committee. Members: Please call
your State Representatives at (800) 282-0253 and encourage them
to support HB 60.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.903FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 16 1997 12:12121
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 11                                            3/14/97

                   "IN TRIGGER LOCKS WE TRUST"

     Such is the mantra of the Clinton Administration and his
anti-gun cronies.  As reported in last week's fax (Vol. 4, No.
10), the President is aggressively pushing for legislation
mandating FFLs to sell trigger locks or other locking devices
with all handguns, and much as we predicted, the anti-self-
defense contingent has already taken up the banner and introduced
legislation to this effect.  Co-sponsored by Sens. Kohl (D-
Wisc.), Boxer (D-Cal.), Durbin (D-Ill.), Chafee (R-R.I.) and
Reps. Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.), "The Child
Safety Lock Act of 1997," ignores the benefits of handguns for
defensive purposes as well as belittling the true solution to
reducing firearms accidents -- training and education.  What's
more, individuals who fail to "properly lock and store" their
guns could be held criminally liable.  Please contact your
lawmakers in Washington at 202/224-3121 in opposition to this
bill.  For the latest information on firearms safety, the use of
handguns for self-defense, and the fallacy of mechanical locking
devices as foolproof measures, contact the NRA-ILA Grassroots
Division at 1-800-392-8683 

BLM REGULATIONS PULLED:  Last November, the Bureau of Land
Management (BLM) issued a proposed rulemaking to consolidate its
existing law enforcement regulations in a re-write they claimed
would help the public understand what activities are prohibited
on the nation's public lands.  Instead, the proposed rule led to
confusion over what the current regulations prohibit, which
regulations are being changed, and how those changes would have
affected public land users.  Concerns over the fundamentally
flawed nature of this rulemaking with respect to the use of
firearms for hunting and sport shooting led the NRA to strongly
recommend that the proposal be withdrawn from further
consideration, and this week, our concerns were heeded.  On
Tuesday, Interior Secretary Bruce Babbitt released a press
release stating he directed the BLM to halt further actions on
this proposal.  Babbitt's decision, "coincidentally," came as
pro-sportsmen Rep. James Hansen (R-Ut.) had scheduled hearings on
this very subject for next week in the House National Parks,
Forest and Lands Subcommittee.

GUN CRUNCHERS RESURFACE:  The U.S. Army Center for Military
History reports a new directive from Army Material Command to
inventory all arms on hand in preparation for sending the
majority (90%) for destruction at Anniston Arsenal.  Curators at
the Center had set aside several thousand historically
significant arms (M1 Garands, M1 carbines, Krag rifles and
carbines, BAR's, Thompsons, and others) for future use by
military museums in their system.  In looking at 5,000 M1
Garands, the team was directed to come up with 500 keepers.  They
are also going through the Center's artifact collections and
looking at other items that can be scrapped or re-issued. It
certainly appears that the destruction of these guns runs
contrary to a specific Department of Defense appropriations
measure specifically prohibiting this type of activity.  The
firearms and accoutrements slated for destruction are very
valuable from a historical sense, but also in a monetary sense. 
Destroying them will forever impact future military and civilian
museum programs, which receive these materials by loan from the
Center for Military History. Please voice your concern over the
destruction of these arms by contacting:  Deputy Curator for
Policy Dave Cole, US Army Center for Military History, DAMH-MD,
1099 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005-3402, (202) 761-5373
 
HE REALLY WALLOPED 'EM:  Speaking at this year's Conservative
Political Action Conference (CPAC), of which NRA was a co-
sponsor, U.S. Sen. Malcolm Wallop (R-Wy. Ret.) offered the
following, "The ruling class doesn't care about public safety. 
Having made it very difficult for States and localities to police
themselves, having left ordinary citizens with no choice but to
protect themselves as best they can, they now try to take our
guns away.  In fact they blame us and our guns for crime.  This
is so wrong that it cannot be an honest mistake."  We agree.

A LOOK AT THE STATES:

COLORADO: The Sen. will soon consider SB 96, an NRA-supported
right to carry reform bill, calling for improvements to the
current discretionary concealed handgun permit system.  Next
week, the Sen. is expected to debate several NRA-backed
amendments to SB 96. Please contact your State Sens. in support
of the NRA-backed amendments and final passage of SB 96.

KANSAS: HB 2159, NRA-backed right to carry, has passed the House,
and the Sen. Federal and State Affairs Cmte. is expected to
consider the measure shortly. Please call your State Sens. in
support of HB 2159.

MISSISSIPPI: HB 100, that includes NRA CrimeStrike language to
protect those who use legitimate self-defense from lawsuits by
criminals who are injured  while committing a crime, has been
accepted by the Sen. and now moves to the House for concurrence. 
Please call your State Reps. at (601) 359-3770 and urge them to
vote to concur with the Sen. amendments to HB 100, and to concur
with the Sen. version of HB 33, the right to carry reform bill. 

NEBRASKA: LB 465, NRA-backed right to carry legislation, may soon
be considered by the Legislature. Please contact your State Sens.
in support of LB 465 without any gutting amendments.

NEW MEXICO: The Sen. Judiciary Cmte. has reported out SB 676,
NRA-backed right to carry legislation.  SB 676 now moves to the
Sen. floor for consideration. Please contact your State Sens.
this weekend at their capitol offices in support of SB 676.

OHIO: HB 60, a Sunday hunting bill awaits action in the House
Agriculture Cmte. Please call your State Reps. at (800) 282-0253
in support of HB 60.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.904FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 23 1997 13:4821
March 19, 1997

                   ATTENTION NRA MEMBERS IN THE
             NEW YORK CITY-GREATER METROPOLITAN AREA

This Thursday, March 20th, NRA CrimeStrike Director Elizabeth
Swasey, Esq., will be appearing on the Rolonda Show to
participate in a panel discussion on the topic of rape and why
repeat offenders are out of prison to rape again. Those members
interested in attending the filming of this program should call
NRA CrimeStrike at (800) 868-4411 before 10:00 AM on Thursday,
March 20th.  The Rolonda program is taped at 415 East 75th Street
in New York City, and members interested in attending should be
at the studio by 4:30 PM.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.905FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 23 1997 13:48121
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly

             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No.  11                                    March 18, 1997

California Urban Crime For 1996 At 30-Year Low Under '3 Strikes'

     Crime in California's 70 jurisdictions with 100,000 or more
persons was down more than 12% in 1996, to the lowest level since
1968, according to the California Justice Dept.

     Atty. Gen. Dan Lungren attributed the decline to the state's
"Three Strikes and You're Out" sentencing law and community-
oriented policing programs that stress crime prevention, reports
Associated Press.  The wire service said its analysis of the
state's numbers found the crime rate was down  nearly 13%. Both
the number and rate of violent crimes were down, 10 and 11%
respectively, AP said.

     Lungren took clear aim at the campaign being waged by anti-
incarcerationists against three-strikes, which doubles sentences
for those convicted of a second felony and rewards a criminal's
third felony with 25 years to life in prison.

     "Those who are ideologically opposed to the three strikes
approach flail about for some way, any way, to discount the
impact of this law," Lungren told reporters.  "How can it be that
they called it 'draconian' before it became law, but now say it
is not making a dramatic impact?"

     "We need to understand the magnitude of what is happening in
California," Lungren also said.  "We are not simply tagging along
with the rest of the country.  We are outpacing it."  He pointed
to a 30.4% decline in the number of homicides over the past three
years as the most important indicator of the law's effectiveness. 

Updated Keep Killers In Prison Scorecard: 42 Paroles Denied

     Two more convicted killers targeted under CrimeStrike's
"Keep Killers in Prison" campaign  have been denied early
paroles.  In Ohio, Reginald Cook, sentenced to 6-25 years, was up
for parole after serving just 14 years for murdering businessman
David Graham.  

     In Kansas, Burle E. Hill, serving a "life" sentence, was up
for parole after serving just 15  years for the murder of his
children's babysitter, Velma Collins.  

     Cook and Hill are the 41st and 42nd killers denied 
parole through the NRA CrimeStrike petition program that works
with the victim's family and NRA member volunteers. 

                    INS' $10 Million Mistake:
        10,000 Felons Naturalized Under 'Citizenship USA'

     Nearly 180,000 aliens were naturalized without the required
FBI criminal background checks from August 1995 through September
1996, according to Justice Department data provided for House
hearings on the Immigration and Naturalization Service's
"Citizenship USA" program. 

     Critics charge the Clinton Administration rushed the INS
naturalization process in an effort to field more Democratic
Party voters for last fall's election. 

     INS granted citizenship to nearly 1.05 million aliens during
the 13-month period. Of those, the FBI found 71,557 had some type
of criminal record, including 10,800 with at least one felony
arrest.

     Justice Department officials said that it may cost as much
as $10 million to review the suspect files and revamp the
naturalization process.

GAO: Inmates Wrongly Got $3.5 Million In Federal Food Stamps

     A U.S. General Accounting Office study of four food stamp
programs across the country concludes that more than 12,000
prison and jail inmates or their families fraudulently received
$3.5 million in federal food stamps in fiscal year 1995, the Los
Angeles Times reported March 12.  More than 1,000 of those
identified were from Los Angeles.

     Inmates, already being fed at taxpayer expense, are
ineligible for food stamps.  The families of inmates are eligible
for food stamps, but often fail to report the reduction in
household size as a result of incarceration, and thus receive
more than their fair share.

     Sen. Richard Lugar (R-IN),  chairman of the Senate Committee
on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, said he will introduce
bill to enable program administrators to run computer matches of
inmates against food stamp participants.

Paroled 30-Time Loser Charged In California Kidnap Attempt

     The state's effort to implement a sex offender program that
is effective may get a boost from last week's arrest of a
notorious rapist on a charge of attempting to kidnap an 11-year-
old girl in Modesto.

     Reports the Fresno Bee, David Calvin Hodge, 53, who was
convicted of 30 charges of kidnap, rape and other sex crimes in
1972, is charged in the case.  Hodge, known as the "Green Mustang
Rapist," was paroled in 1992.

                 A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
     Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org.
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.906FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 23 1997 13:4861
March 20, 1997

                      SPECIAL KANSAS ALERT:

       "RIGHT TO CARRY" SAILS THROUGH HOUSE ON 78-44 VOTE;
                  HEARINGS IN SENATE THIS MONDAY
          GOVERNOR GRAVES STILL UNDECIDED ON HB 2159 - 
             WANTS TO HEAR FROM THE PEOPLE OF KANSAS

Legislation that would secure the right of law-abiding Kansans to
carry firearms for self-defense passed overwhelmingly in the
state's House of Representatives and will soon be taken up by the
State Senate.  HB 2159, introduced by Representative Gary
Hayzlett, breezed through the House on a 78-44 vote.  The bill is
now in the Senate's Federal & State Affairs Committee, which will
hold hearings on the issue of "right to carry" this Monday at 11
a.m.  Although HB 2159 passed by a wide margin in the House, it's
fate in the Senate is not clear at this point.  Despite the
overwhelming evidence that "right to carry" works, some Senators 
are still not convinced.  We must make sure that these senators 
know the people of Kansas want the "right to carry."

     PLEASE CALL THESE KEY MEMBERS OF THE KANSAS SENATE 
               AND URGE THEM TO SUPPORT HB 2159:
                                
Senator Don Biggs, Leavenworth:         (913) 296-7372
Senator David Corbin, Emporia:          (913) 296-7388
Senator Barbara Lawrence, Wichita:      (913) 296-7386
Senator Keith Schraad, Overland Park:   (913) 296-7361
Senator Chris Steineger, Kansas City:   (913) 296-7375 

Also undecided on the "right to carry" legislation is Governor
Bill Graves.  The governor has expressed a willingness to listen
to the arguments in favor of HB 2159, and he has received a great
deal of support from Kansas gun owners in the past.  If you're
one of the many sportsmen who have backed him before, let him
know about it, and let him know that you support "right to
carry."  It's critical that as many law-abiding citizens as
possible make it clear to Governor Graves that they want their
right to defend themselves and their families protected by him
and other elected officials in the state.  So please, pass this
information on to your family, friends and fellow gun owners.   

          PLEASE CALL, FAX, E-MAIL GOVERNOR BILL GRAVES 
                AND URGE HIM TO SUPPORT HB 2159 -
                YOUR "RIGHT TO CARRY" LEGISLATION

                    TELEPHONE: (913) 296-3232
                    TOLL FREE: 1-800-748-4408
                       FAX: (913) 296-7973
                     E-MAIL: governor@ink.org
                                
             ATTEND THE SENATE HEARINGS ON HB 2159 -
  MONDAY, MARCH 24 AT 11 A.M. IN ROOM 254-E OF THE STATE CAPITOL

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.907FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 23 1997 13:49120
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 12                                            3/21/97

         STOMPING ON THE FIRST TO INFRINGE ON THE SECOND

     In a press conference held last week, NRA joined a host of
diverse groups concerned over the recent rush to pass so-called
campaign finance reform legislation.  While this issue has been
bandied about for some time now, in the wake of one presidential
fundraising scandal after another, supporters of overhauling our
system of democracy have become more vocal.  NRA exists primarily
to defend and protect the U.S. Constitution, especially the
Second Amendment, and we also recognize the importance of, and
will continue to fight for, all of the rights set forth in the
Constitution, including the First Amendment. It is for these
reasons that we oppose the current legislation co-sponsored by
Sens. John McCain (R-Ariz.) and Russell Feingold (D-Wisc.) (S.
25).  S. 25 would severely restrict our members' ability to
participate within the political process.  For example, our
ability to send NRA members NRA-PVF Political Preference Charts,
to inform them on candidates' stances on gun-related issues,
would be severely restricted, if not prohibited.  Moreover, S. 25
would abolish political action committees (PACs), including the
NRA Political Victory Fund (NRA-PVF).  Political contributions,
by individuals or PACs (like NRA-PVF), have been upheld by the
Supreme Court as political speech protected by the First
Amendment.  The average contribution from an NRA member for our
political activities is $26.33.  And while many of our members
can't afford to contribute hundreds of dollars to pro-gun
candidates, they understand their contribution, coupled with
those of their fellow members, gives them a voice in the
political process, and goes a long way toward our foremost goal
of protecting the Second Amendment.  Please contact your U.S.
Senators at 202/224-3121 in opposition to the McCain-Feingold
bill (S. 25).  Tell them oppression never leads to freedom or
fairness, and they shouldn't restrict our First Amendment rights
under the guise of "campaign finance reform."

GUN CRUNCHERS HALTED -- AT LEAST TEMPORARILY:  As reported in
last week's fax, the U.S. Army Center for Military History had
reported a directive from Army Material Command to inventory all
arms on hand in preparation for sending the majority (90%) for
destruction at Anniston Arsenal.  This week, however, NRA has
learned that thanks to the work of NRA members, Sen. Ted Stevens
(R-Alaska), museum curators, members of gun collectors guilds and
clubs, American Legion members, and those at the Center for
Military History, the destruction of these guns is on temporary
hold pending a review of the procedures.  We'll continue to
monitor the situation and report any related developments.

A LOOK AT THE STATES:

COLORADO:  SB 96, NRA-supported right to carry reform
legislation, which calls for improvements to the current
discretionary concealed handgun permit system, passed the Senate
earlier this week on a vote of 20-15. The measure now heads to
the House State Affairs Committee for consideration.  Please call
your State Representatives and urge them to support SB 96.  Also,
please call Governor Roy Romer at (303) 866-2471 and urge him to
support SB 96.

MISSISSIPPI:  The House has concurred with the Senate versions of
HB 100, which includes NRA CrimeStrike language to protect those
who use legitimate self-defense from lawsuits by criminals who
are injured while committing a crime, and HB 33, NRA-backed
reciprocity legislation.  The measures will now be sent to the
Governor for his expected signature. We'll keep you posted!  

NEBRASKA: The Legislature is expected to consider LB 465, NRA-
supported right to carry legislation, on Monday. Please contact
your State Senators and urge them to support LB 465. 

NEW MEXICO: HJM 30, a resolution urging New Mexico schools to
adopt NRA's Eddie Eagle program, overwhelmingly passed the
legislature this week.  SB 676, NRA-backed right to carry
legislation, passed the Senate on a 22-12 vote and now moves to
the House Judiciary and Business & Industry Committees for
consideration.  The legislature is scheduled to adjourn at noon
on Saturday. Please contact your State Representatives on
Saturday morning and urge them to support SB 676. 

TENNESSEE: HB 1055, legislation which will reform the states'
right to carry system to eliminate delays and other problems with
issuance, was introduced by Representative Frank Buck this week.
Please call your State Representatives at 1-800-449-8366 and urge
them to support HB 1055.  

WEST VIRGINIA: SB 98, legislation that calls for tightening up of
the current training requirements and would make other adverse
changes to the current right to carry system, has passed the
Senate and is awaiting action by the House Judiciary Committee. 
Please contact your State Representatives and ask them to oppose
SB 98 when it comes before them.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!  If you're planning to attend the NRA's
Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Seattle, then be sure to attend the
FREE NRA-ILA Grassroots/Clubs & Associations workshop, scheduled
for Friday, May 2, 1997 at the Sheraton Seattle Hotel & Towers
from 9:00 a.m. to Noon!  This year's workshop will cover: how we
can work together to educate candidates on firearms-related
issues, how you can increase gun owners' presence by utilizing
your local media, and what programs and resources are available
from NRA to make your club or state association even more
effective.  Speakers at this year's workshop will include NRA
Executive Vice President Wayne LaPierre and NRA-ILA Executive
Director Tanya Metaksa. Also, Mrs. Metaksa will be available
during the Meetings to sign copies of her new book, Safe, Not
Sorry. To reserve your seat at this year's Grassroots/Clubs &
Association workshop, call the NRA-ILA Grassroots Division at 
1-800-392-8683.  We hope to see you in Seattle!

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.908FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Mar 26 1997 17:5943
March 25, 1997

Virginia

Governor George Allen once again demonstrated his
administration's commitment to your Second Amendment rights last
night when he vetoed two anti-gun pieces of legislation being
pushed by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors.  SB 763 and SB
978 would have allowed the county to pass ordinances prohibiting
firearms in county owned community centers and police stations,
respectively.  While the members of the county's Board of
Supervisors were eager to point out the exemptions in both bills
for concealed handgun permit holders, what they didn't say was
that they and their lobbyists in Richmond vigorously opposed
these exemptions and had vowed to have them removed during the
next session of the legislature, creating dangerous traps
throughout the county in which otherwise law-abiding citizens
could have easily become ensnared.

In vetoing the two anti-gun bills, Governor Allen wisely noted
that, "no criminal who goes into a police station or recreation
center with the intent or predisposition to commit a violent
crime is going to be deterred by a local ordinance under which he
could be fined a few hundred dollars for possessing the dangerous
weapon he intends to use to commit the violent crime . . . If the
prospect of spending much of his life in prison does not deter
this particular individual, then why in the world would the
threat of a minor monetary fine deter him?"  

Governor Allen went on to point out that both bills would begin
the process of "creating an irrational patchwork of local laws
and ordinances governing the possession of weapons," and called
both proposals "just bad public policy..."

Members: Please call Governor George Allen at (804) 782-2211 and
thank him for standing up for your firearms freedoms.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.909FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Mar 26 1997 17:59108
March 25, 1997

                 "RIGHT TO CARRY" PASSES HOUSE - 
                 GOVERNOR GRAVES STILL UNDECIDED

Dear Kansas NRA Member:

Did you know that Kansas is one of only seven states that deny
law-abiding citizens the right to carry a firearm for self-
defense?  That's right - one of only seven.

But that could all change very soon.  The Kansas House of
Representatives recently approved - by an overwhelming margin -
legislation that would secure your right to defend yourself and
your family with a firearm.  HB 2159, the "right to carry" bill
introduced by Representative Gary Hayzlett, passed the House by a
78-44 margin.  This critical legislation is now in the State
Senate, where it will be voted on shortly.

Unfortunately, the fate of HB 2159 is still not guaranteed. 
Despite the overwhelming support for "right to carry" from law
enforcement, including the Fraternal Order of Police and numerous
sheriffs across the state, many Senators remain undecided as to
how they will vote on HB 2159, and Governor Bill Graves has yet
to announce his position on this issue.  If we are going to pass
"right to carry" in Kansas, we must act now.

Governor Graves has indicated that he wants to hear what the
people of Kansas think about "right to carry" before he makes up
his mind.  Your calls, faxes, letters and e-mail messages to
Governor Graves could truly turn the tide in this debate and
decide the fate of this important legislation.  If you've never
contacted the governor about your opinion on an issue before -
then this is the time to do it.  If you've already let Governor
Graves know that you support HB 2159, then please, contact him
again.  Remind him that gun owners in Kansas have been strong
supporters of his in the past, and would like to support him
again in the future, but he must recognize our right to self-
defense - he must support our "right to carry."

Listed below are the telephone number, fax number, address and
e-mail address for Governor Bill Graves.  Please contact him and
urge him to support HB 2159:

     Address:  Governor Bill Graves
     2nd Floor, State Capitol
     Topeka, KS 66612-1590
     Telephone: 1-800-748-4408 toll free or (913) 296-3232
     Fax: (913) 296-7973
     E-Mail: governor@ink.org

KANSAS SENATE

Call your Senator today and urge him or her to join with the
Fraternal Order of Police and other members of the law
enforcement community in support of HB 2159!

All Area Codes (913)

Wamego              Edward Pugh: 296-7379
Lawrence            Sandy Praeger: 296-7364
Leavenworth         Donald Biggs: 296-7372
Kansas City         Sherman Jones: 296-7376
Kansas City         Mark Gilstrap: 296-7357
Kansas City         Chris Steineger: 296-7375
Prairie Village     Audrey Langworthy: 296-7369
Overland Park       Dick Bond: 296-2419
Lenexa              Rich Becker: 296-7382
Shawnee             Nick Jordan: 296-7362
Overland Park       Keith Schraad: 296-7361
Parker              Robert Tyson: 296-7380
Frontenac           Jim Barone: 296-7370
Thayer              Dwayne Umbarger: 296-7389
Independence        Tim Emert: 296-2497
Towanda             David Corbin: 296-7388
Emporia             Jerry Karr: 296-7384
Topeka              Marge Petty: 296-7365
Topeka              Anthony Hensley: 296-3245
Topeka              Alicia Salisbury: 296-7374
Haddam              Janice Hardenburger: 296-7371
Manhattan           Lana Oleen: 296-7360
Olathe              Karin Brownlee: 296-7358
Salina              Ben Vidricksen: 296-7390
Wichita             Pat Ranson: 296-7391
Clearwater          Nancey Harrington: 296-7367
Wichita             Les Donovan: 296-7385
Wichita             Paul Feliciano: 296-7355
Wichita             Rip Gooch: 296-7387
Wichita             Barbara Lawrence: 296-7386
Inman               Christine Downey: 296-7377
Winfield            Greta Goodwin: 296-7381
Great Bend          Laurie Bleeker: 296-7394
Hutchinson          Dave Kerr: 296-7368
McPherson           Don Steffes: 296-7354
Kensington          Janis Lee: 296-7366
Hanston             Larry Salmans: 296-7383
Fowler              Tim Huelskamp: 296-7359
Hugoton             Stephen Morris: 296-7378
Oakley              Stan Clark: 296-7399

You may also fax your Senator at (913) 368-6365

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.910FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 30 1997 12:3438
March 26, 1997

New Hampshire:

Tomorrow, Thursday, March 27, the House Criminal Justice and
Public Safety Committee will consider Senate Bill 66, which would
allow the issuance of lifetime carry permits to those who
qualify.  Though S.B. 66 has already passed the Senate, the bill
may face a tougher time in the House, as the Committee may
attempt to weaken the bill by amending it.  

We urge members to call (603) 271-2384 and leave a message for
the committee members listed below, encouraging them to support
the senate version of SB 66 without amendments.

          29 Rockingham            Vivian Dunham
          2  Hillsborough          Herbert Hansen
          18 Hillsborough          Doris MacIntyre
          13 Merrimack             Olive Merrill
          14 Strafford             Roger Berube
          32 Hillsborough          Lori Cardin
          19 Rockingham            Frank Schanda

New Jersey

Attention gun owners, the Burgen Record Newspaper is conducting a
poll on how you feel about Right to Carry legislation.  The poll
will be last through tomorrow March 27. Please call the newspaper
at (201) 525-4600 extention 2101 and voice your support for right
to carry legislation.

To vote "yes" press "1"
=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.911FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 30 1997 12:35116
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly

             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation
 
Vol. 3, No.  12                                    March 25, 1997

BJS:  Less Than Half Of Felons Sent To Prison

     Only about 45% of the 872,200 criminals convicted of
felonies in state courts in 1994 were sentenced to prison,
according to a new Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) survey.

     Of the 55% of felons not sentenced to prison, 26% got jail
sentences averaging six months, while 29% received probation. 
The study, done every two years, is the only detailed examination
of state-court felony sentencing.  

     Violent offenses constituted 19% of the convictions,
including 12,007 for murder and manslaughter, 20,068 for rape,
46,028 for robbery, 65,174 for aggravated assault, and 21,307 for
various other violent crimes.  An equal percentage of convictions
were for drug trafficking, while only 4% were for weapons
offenses. 

     Felons convicted in 1994 got an average sentence of six
years, "but were likely to serve roughly a third of that sentence
  or about two years   before release, assuming that 1994 release
policies continue in effect," BJS reports.

Double-Murderer Wins One . . . 1,200 Others To Follow

     On the heels of its ruling in Lynce v. Mathis (see
CrimeWatch Weekly for 2/25)   which cleared the way for hundreds
of Florida inmates serving sentences for violent crimes to be
freed from prison   the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on a similar
matter in Young v. Harper, on March 18.  

     Here, the court found Oklahoma's "preparole program" so
similar to parole that participants in that program have the same
rights as parolees, including the right to due process under the
14th Amendment.

     The purpose of Oklahoma's preparole program was solely to
avoid prison overcrowding.  It went into effect only when the
prison population reached 95% of capacity, and avoided
overpopulation by freeing inmates (with conditions) after serving
just 15% of their sentences, rather than the one-third required
for parole.  More than 1,000 Oklahoma inmates are currently on
preparole.

     Ernest Harper, who had served 15 years of a "life" sentence
for murdering a mother and child,  was released under the
preparole program.  He sued five months later, when the governor
refused Harper's parole and he was returned to prison without a
hearing, a protection the Supreme Court has guaranteed parolees. 
In an opinion by Justice Thomas, the court unanimously agreed
that preparoled inmates must receive the protections granted
parolees, including a hearing prior to revocation of preparole.
Young v. Harper, No. 95-1598.

     Commenting on the recent cases, CrimeStrike director and
attorney Elizabeth Swasey said "the floodgates are opening not
because the court wants to intentionally loose convicted
criminals on us.  The problem is that prior to recent reforms,
states did everything they could to avoid building adequate
prison space.  In Lynce, the issue was whether 'good time
credits' can be withdrawn. In Harper, the issue  was how
'preparole' can be revoked.  But you have to ask, why did states
invent 'good time credits' and 'preparole programs' in the first
place?  To avoid prison overcrowding," she said. 

     "No one should be denied the right to life, liberty or
property without due process of law," Swasey said, noting "it's
too bad the protections apply only to government action, since
Ernest Harper sure denied his victims the right to live."   

A Snapshot Of Crime & Punishment

     The BJS report on felony sentences in state courts affords a
snapshot of crime in America when the agency matches it with
crime report and arrest numbers from the FBI's Uniform Crime
Reports for 1994.  BJS cautions that the numbers are aggregates
useful for comparison purposes, not a record of individual cases.

               No.       No.        No.         No. 
Offense        Crimes    Arrested   Convicted   Incarcerated*
=======        =======   ========   =========   =============   
Murder          23,310    18,357     12,007      11,537
Robbery        618,820   117,157     46,028      40,284
A. Assault   1,119,950   462,309     65,174      48,856
Burglary     2,712,200   252,712     98,109      73,156

*Includes jail and prison sentences. 

NY Inmate's Wife Awarded $500

    The wife of a prison inmate injured when he fell from a roof
during a work detail received a court award $500 for loss of
consortium, which Black's Law Dictionary defines as "conjugal
fellowship of husband and wife." The inmate received $20,000 for
his injuries. Tucker v. State of New York, JV No. 192027.

                 A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
      Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.912FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 30 1997 12:35124
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 13                                            3/28/97

                     ALL POLITICS IS TAXABLE?

     On March 24, the Congressional Joint Committee on Taxation
launched an investigation into allegations -- which have been
reported in both the Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post
in recent days -- that the IRS has engaged in politically
motivated audits of certain tax exempt groups, including the NRA,
that have been active in opposing legislative pursuits of the
Clinton White House.  As reported in previous Fax Alerts, the
IRS's audit of NRA comes in the form of a Coordinated Examination
Program (CEP) -- a far-reaching tax audit that lasts years and
demands considerable time and resources to accommodate.  The
driving forces behind the review of the IRS's actions are the
Chairman of the Joint Committee on Taxation, Reps. Bill Archer
(R-Tex.) and Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.) and Sens. William Roth 
(R-Del.) and Daniel Patrick Moynihan (D-N.Y.).  These lawmakers have
required that the IRS probe be completed by September 15.  You'll
recall that President Clinton made headlines in 1995 by crediting
the NRA with changing the face of Congress during the 1994
elections, the same year NRA learned that we'd be subjected to a
multi-year audit.  Similarly, the Washington Times ran a story on
March 25, where it noted "In many instances, the IRS says it
chooses audit subjects based on news reports."  The story notes a
liberal group that "peppers the IRS with written complaints,
hoping to spur audits of conservative" groups.  IRS leaders claim
they conduct all audits fairly and without bias, and that this
congressional inquiry is welcomed.  

"HATCHING" A PREDICTION:  The Salt Lake Tribune reported this
week (3/23/97) some encouraging words from the Chairman of the
Senate Judiciary Committee.  Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Ut.) predicted
that the Brady Act will be struck down as unconstitutional by the
Supreme Court.  As you may recall, the Supreme Court heard
opening arguments earlier this year on whether the "background
check" provision of the Brady Act was constitutional.  A group of
local law enforcement officers, with the support of the NRA,
agreed that the federal government cannot commandeer local and
state law enforcement officials to carry out a federally-mandated
background check.  In discussing the case, Hatch noted, "The
Brady Act was designed to fail.  [It] will be held
unconstitutional."  The Supreme Court is expected to rule on the
case later this Spring or by early Summer.

A LOOK AT THE STATES: 

ALASKA: SB 141, an NRA-backed bill that would make technical
changes to the state's current carry system has been reported out
of the Senate State Affairs Committee.  The measure now moves to
the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.  Members: Please
call your local Legislative Information Office and send a public
opinion message to your State Senator urging them to support SB
141. 

ARKANSAS: The end of the legislative session is rapidly
approaching and  the House Judiciary Committee has yet to
schedule a hearing on House Bill 2181, a bill which would
eliminate the requirement of listing handgun serial numbers on
carry permits.  Members: Please contact Representative Beatty,
the Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee at (501) 921-4219
and encourage him to consider HB 2181 today! 

KANSAS: Yesterday, the Senate Federal and State Affairs Committee
reported out HB 2159, the NRA-backed right to carry bill.  HB
2159 is now on the Senate floor.  Members: Please call your State
Senators and urge them to support HB 2159.  Also, please call
Governor Bill Graves at 1-800-748-4408 and urge him to support HB
2159.  

NEBRASKA: Action on LB 465, the NRA-supported right to carry
bill, will be held off until mid-April, as NRA-ILA staff and the
bill sponsor work to make necessary changes before
reconsideration by the full Legislature.  Anti-gun Sen. Ernie
Chambers plans to continue filibustering the measure.  Members:
Please keep calling your Senators and urging them to:  (1)
support ending debate on LB 465 and (2) support passage of LB 465
on General File.  

NEW MEXICO: The legislature adjourned Saturday without giving
final consideration to SB 676, the NRA-backed right to carry
bill.  Thanks to the hard work of state activists and NRA-ILA
staff, the bill progressed further through the process than ever
before, clearing three Senate committees, the full Senate and the
House Business & Industry Committee before failing to be heard in
the House Judiciary Committee before adjournment.  We'll push
this legislation again, either in special or future regular
sessions.  

OREGON: On Wednesday, April 2, the House Education Committee will
hear HJM 2, a resolution urging Oregon schools to adopt NRA's
nationally-recognized Eddie Eagle children's gun safety program. 
It's important that NRA members turn out to support this measure
to counter the numerous trigger-lock and mandatory firearms
storage bills introduced this session.  Members: Please call your
State Representatives at 1-800-332-2313 and urge them to support
HJM 2. 

WASHINGTON: HB 2078 and HB 2273 are currently pending in the
House.  These measures would require mandatory storage of
personally-owned firearms kept in the home. Members: Please
contact your State Representatives and urge them to oppose HB
2078 and HB 2273. 

WEST VIRGINIA: Contrary to false and misleading reports, NRA did
not support SB 98, legislation that called for damaging changes
to the state's current right to carry system, in the form it
passed the State Senate.  By working with the leadership in the
House, we were able to amend SB 98 so that the training
requirements for permit applicants will remain as they are today. 
We are currently working to address other shortcomings with this
legislation to ensure that the rights of permit applicants and
permit holders are protected.  We'll keep you  posted!

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.913FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Mar 30 1997 12:35100
March 28, 1997

Alaska: SB 141, an NRA-backed bill that would make changes to the
state's current carry system has been reported out of the Senate
State Affairs Committee.  The measure which would reduce the
current fees, rolls back restrictions on where license holders
can lawfully carry and establish reciprocal licensing provisions
for non-residents now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for
consideration.  Members: Please call your local Legislative
Information Office and send a public opinion message to your
State Senator urging them to support SB 141. 

U.S. Rep. Don Young (R-AK) announced this week that he is co-
sponsoring HR 339, The Right to Safety and Personal Protection
Act, sponsored by Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-FL).  HR 339 would
establish national right to carry reciprocity between states, so
that citizens with right to carry permits in their home states
could legally carry a firearm for their own self-protection in
other states.  Alaska members are urged to call Rep. Young's
office and thank him for his support.  Members in other states
should call their congressman at (202)224-3121 and urge him to
sign on as a co-sponsor to HR 339 if he has not yet done so.

Arkansas: The end of the legislative session is rapidly
approaching and  the House Judiciary Committee has yet to
schedule a hearing on House Bill 2181, a bill which would
eliminate the requirement of listing handgun serial numbers on
carry permits.  Members: Please contact Representative Beatty, the
Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee at (501)921-4219 and
encourage him to consider HB 2181 today!

HB 2160, sponsored by Rep. Gunner DeLay, will make carrying a
loaded firearm in a vehicle legal anytime you are going more 
than 20 miles from your home.  HB 2160 is expected to be voted 
on in the House on Monday or Tuesday.  Please call your Arkansas 
state representative at (501)682-6211 and urge him to support 
HB 2160.

Colorado: SB 96, right to carry reform legislation, is expected
to pass out of the Colorado House of Representatives soon.  Please
call Gov. Romer at (303)866-2471 and urge him to sign this important
reform legislation when it gets to his desk.

Kansas: Yesterday, the Senate Federal and State Affairs Committee
reported out HB 2159, the NRA-backed right to carry bill.  HB
2159 is now on the Senate floor.  Members:Please call your State
Senators and urge them to support HB 2159.  Also, please call
Governor Bill Graves at (913) 296-3232 and urge him to support HB
2159.  

Nebraska: Action on LB 465, the NRA-supported right to carry
bill, will be held off until mid-April, as NRA-ILA staff and the
bill sponsor work to make necessary changes before
reconsideration by the full Legislature.  Anti-gun Sen. Ernie
Chambers plans to continue filibustering the measure. 
Members:Please keep calling your Senators and urging them to (1)
support ending debate on LB 465; and (2) support passage of LB
465 on General File.  

New Mexico: The legislature adjourned Saturday without giving
final consideration to SB 676, the NRA-backed right to carry
bill.  Thanks to the hard work of state activists and NRA-ILA
staff, the bill progressed further through the process than ever,
clearing three Senate committees, the full Senate and the House
Business & Industry Committee before failing to be heard in House
Judiciary before adjournment.  We'll push this legislation again,
either in special or future regular sessions. 

Oregon: On Wednesday, April 2, the House Education Committee will
hear HJM 2, a resolution urging Oregon schools to adopt NRA's
nationally-recognized Eddie Eagle children's gun safety program. 
It's important that NRA members turn out to support this measure
to counter the numerous trigger-lock and mandatory firearms
storage bills introduced this session.  Members:Please call your
State Representatives at 1-800-332-2313 and urge them to support
HJM 2. 

Washington: HB 2078 and HB 2273 are currently pending in the
House.  These measures would require mandatory storage of
personally-owned firearms kept in the home. Members:Please
contact your State Representatives and urge them to oppose HB
2078 and HB 2273. 

West Virginia: Contrary to false and misleading reports, NRA did
not support SB 98, a piece of legislation that called for
damaging changes to the state's current right to carry system, in
the form it passed the State Senate.  By working with the
leadership in the House, we were able to amend SB 98 so that the
training requirements for permit applicants will remain as they
are today.  We are currently working to address other
shortcomings with this legislation to ensure that the rights of
permit applicants and permit holders are protected.  We'll keep
you  posted!

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.914FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Apr 01 1997 16:4060
March 31, 1997

Virginia

On Wednesday, April 2, anti-gunners in the Virginia legislature
will attempt to override Governor Allen's veto of SB 763 and SB
978.

If they are successful, the Board of Supervisors in Fairfax
County will then have the power to ban firearms in county-owned
community centers, and the system of uniform statewide firearm
laws which apply equally to all Virginians will be seriously
damaged.

In vetoing the two anti-gun bills, Governor Allen wisely noted
that, "no criminal who goes into a police station or recreation
center with the intent or predisposition to commit a violent
crime is going to be deterred by a local ordinance under which he
could be fined a few hundred dollars for possessing the dangerous
weapon he intends to use to commit the violent crime . . . If the
prospect of spending much of his life in prison does not deter
this particular individual, then why in the world would the
threat of a minor monetary fine deter him?"

The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and the sponsors of SB
763 and SB 978 have been quick to point out the exemptions in the
laws for Virginia right-to-carry permit holders.

What they are NOT saying is that when the bills were introduced
there were NO exemptions for permit holders.  They are also NOT
saying that they OPPOSED adding the exemptions for permit
holders.  Further, the backers of these laws are on record as
stating that if these bills pass, they intend to REMOVE the
exemptions for permit holders altogether.

Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Kate Hanley said it
all when she told the Fairfax Journal "I would prefer to keep
guns out [of community centers and police stations] all
together."

All Virginians should be concerned about these bills.  You can be
sure that if Fairfax County gets permission to pass their own
firearm laws, more restrictive than statewide laws, other local
officials will lobby for the same thing.  The result will be the
elimination of uniform firearm laws in Virginia, and gun owners
and law enforcement officers alike will be trapped within a
patchwork of firearm regulations which differ from community to
community.

MEMBERS: PLEASE CALL YOUR STATE SENATOR AND DELEGATE AT THEIR
DISTRICT OFFICES AND URGE THEM TO JOIN GOVERNOR ALLEN IN STANDING
UP FOR THE RIGHTS OF VIRGINIA'S LAW-ABIDING GUN OWNERS BY
SUPPORTING HIS VETO OF SB 763 AND SB 978. 

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.915FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue Apr 01 1997 16:4076
March 31, 1997

Maryland

             ATTENTION MONTGOMERY COUNTY GUN OWNERS!

On March 4th, the Montgomery County Council held public hearings
on two local ordinances (4-97 & 5-97) that would ban firearms
within 100 yards of any public gathering place.  Roughly 200
citizens showed up to submit testimony and voice their opposition
to the ban.  However, the Public Safety Committee did not hear
testimony from the gun-owners in attendance.

Additionally, Montgomery County Executive Doug Duncan has
introduced an amendment which is expected to be attached to
either 4-97 or 5-97 which will require a trigger lock to be sold
with all firearms purchased within Montgomery County. 
Introducing the legislation as an amendment, Executive Duncan
will avoid having to hold a public hearing on this proposal.

Firearm safety training, like that offered by the NRA, is the
only proven way to prevent accidents with firearms, and it is
absurd to suggest that a single storage method is appropriate for
every Montgomery County gun-owner.

A law which mandates that trigger locks be sold with firearms can
create a false sense of security in new gun owners if they think
that a trigger lock is their only option for safe gun storage. 
Trigger lock manufacturers warn on their own packaging, "We do
not guarantee that this product will lock all guns."

Trigger locks also make firearms useless for self-defense because
they must be unloaded in order to safely use the trigger lock.
Manufacturers warn on their product, "Warning! Do Not Use On A
Loaded Gun! Attempts to use on a loaded gun may result in an
accidental discharge."

It is imperative that you call or write the Council members and
urge them to oppose this legislation, focus on the criminals and
reject the trigger lock amendment without first holding hearings
into the inherent risks of mandating a single firearm storage
method for all Montgomery County gun owners.  All numbers are in
the (301) area code:

Marilyn Prasner     217-7968
Betty Ann Kranke    217-6617
Isiah Leggett       217-7955            
Derick Berlage      217-7967
Michael Subin       217-7828
Nancy Dacek         217-7811
Gail Ewing          217-7906
William Hanna       217-7960
Neal Potter         217-7966       
          
Or by writing to the following address:

     Montgomery County Council
     100 Maryland Avenue
     Rockville, MD  20850

You can also voice your opposition to Executive Douglas Duncan's
amendment by contacting him at the following address:
                                 
     Douglas Duncan, County Executive
     Montgomery County
     Executive Office Building
     101 Monroe Street
     Rockville, MD  20850
     (301)217-2500

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.916FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 06 1997 17:4026
April 1, 1997

Kansas:

Last night, Monday, March 31, the Kansas Senate passed HB 2159,
which will allow law-abiding Kansans to carry firearms for self-
defense, on a vote of 22-18. Now is the time to focus our efforts
on Governor Bill Graves.  He has expressed a willingness to
consider arguments in favor of HB 2159, but he needs to hear
from you!  
     
Contact Governor Graves today, and urge him to sign this
important public safety measure into law when it reaches his
desk!

                    TELEPHONE:  (913) 296-3232
                    TOLL-FREE:  (800) 748-4408
                       FAX:  (913) 296-7973
                    E-MAIL:  governor@ink.org

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.917FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 06 1997 17:40117
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly

             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No.  13                                     April 1, 1997

N. Dakota, Mississippi Approve Crime Victims' Protection Act

     NRA's CrimeStrike's "Crime Victims' Protection Act" intended
to protect crime victims from unwarranted civil claims by
criminals injured during the commission of crimes (see CrimeWatch
Weekly, 2/25/97) will soon be the law in North Dakota and
Mississippi.  

     In North Dakota, SB 2221, sponsored by Sen. Randy Christmann
(R-Dist. 33), passed by overwhelming majorities in both the
Senate and House.  The North Dakota law includes expanded
provisions to protect property owners.  Gov. Edward T. Schafer is
expected to sign the bill this week.

     In Mississippi, Sen. Michael Gunn, (R-Dist. 20) was
successful in amending HB 100 to include portions of the "Crime
Victim's Protection Act."  The Senate amendment was then approved
by the House, and Gov. Kirk Fordice is expected to sign the bill,
along with an NRA-supported bill providing concealed carry
reciprocity, on April 11.  NRA Chief Lobbyist Tanya Metaksa and
CrimeStrike Director Elizabeth J. Swasey are expected to attend
the signing ceremony.

     "Its absurd to think that criminals, once convicted, have
another crack at their victims again by filing a lawsuit.  The
people of Mississippi and North Dakota will soon be protected
from this additional indignity, thanks to their state legislature
and the NRA," Mrs. Metaksa said.

     Similar legislation has been introduced in other states
around the nation, including Alaska, New York, Oklahoma and
Tennessee.

Hey, Let's Give The Cops A Break!

     Ever wonder why cops are frustrated by the "workings" of our
criminal justice system?

     ITEM: The man police arrested for firing the shot that
killed a prominent 78-year-old member of the District of
Columbia's Chinese community Feb. 2 was twice set free without
posting bail while awaiting trial on two 1995 charges of carrying
an unregistered pistol and attempting to sell the guns. 
(Washington Times, 3/28/97)

     ITEM: A 23-year-man old charged as one of the notorious
"British Bandits" (for their fake accents) responsible for a
series of armed home invasions in the tonier sections of
Maryland's Montgomery County adjoining the District of Columbia
had 11 juvenile and 35 adult arrests, police say. (Washington
Times, 3/2/97)

Judge Accedes To Victims' Rights Law For Bombing Trial

     The federal judge hearing the Oklahoma City bombing case
against Timothy J. McVeigh has reversed his order banning victims
who plan to testify at the sentencing phase from attending the
trial that opened Monday in Denver.  

     Judge Richard P. Matsch acted just days after Congress
passed victims' rights legislation preventing him and other
federal judges from barring from their courtrooms those victims
who plan to appear at penalty proceedings later.

     Judge Matsch, who ruled twice last year against letting
those survivors or their relatives attend the trial, complied
with the new law with qualifications on March 25.

     Sponsored by Rep. Bill McCollum, R-Fla., HR924 passed the
House March 18 and the Senate by voice vote on March 19. 
President Clinton signed it into law the same day, demonstrating
the clout victims' rights legislation in its many manifestation
now wield.

     Last November, NRA CrimeStrike supported crime victims'
rights constitutional amendments that were approved in eight
states, bringing to 29 the states with such laws. 

Arkansas Denies Littell's Parole

     The Arkansas parole board last week denied parole for Arthur
G.  Littell, convicted in the 1978 murder of college student
Kenny Dewayne Kisner.  Kisner was murdered in Lonoke County after
he picked up Littell and a companion as they hitchhiked.

     Littell becomes the 43rd killer denied parole after being
targeted by NRA CrimeStrike's "Keep Killers in Prison" campaign. 
More than 600 Arkansans signed petitions urging the State Post
Prison Transfer Board to deny Littell's release.

     Kisner's mother thanked NRA volunteers for their assistance
in stopping Littell's release.  He has come up for parole
annually since 1979, but the family didn't learn of this until
1982.  They have opposed Littell's release every year since and
face that painful prospect again next year.
     

                 A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
     Tel 800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org. 
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.918FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 06 1997 17:4147
April 4, 1997

California

"GUN BILL DAY" CLOSING IN:  On Tuesday, April 8, at 10 a.m., the
Assembly Public Safety Committee will consider the majority of
anti-gun assembly bills introduced this session.

A few bills to be especially concerned about are AB 488
(Caldera), which would ban small, inexpensive handguns, commonly
used for self defense, as well as AB 136 (Villaraigosa) and AB
247 (Scott), which both seek to repeal the state's firearms
preemption law, opening the door to a "patchwork quilt" of local
gun control ordinances throughout the state.

In addition, the committee will consider AB 131 (Ortiz), a
measure requiring stolen firearms be reported to law enforcement
within 48 hours, failure to do so resulting in an infraction, and
AB 1107 (Ortiz) a proposal that would essentially ban gun shows
on state property.

Time is running out, so please continue to contact members of the
committee, listed below, and urge them to oppose this anti-gun
agenda!  All phone numbers are in the (916) area code:

                 Assembly Public Safety Committee

Robert Hertzberg (Ch.)   445-7644
Jan Goldsmith (V. Ch.)   445-2484
Dion Aroner              445-7554
Scott Baugh              445-6233
Larry Bowler             445-7402
George House             445-7906
Sheila James Kuehl       445-4956
Diane Martinez           445-7852
Carole Midgen            445-8077
Kevin Murray             445-8800
Grace Napolitano         445-0965
Rod Pacheco              445-0854
Carl Washington          445-7486

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.919FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 06 1997 17:4184
April 4, 1997

ALERTS and UPDATES: GA KS IL IA LA NE NJ ND OH RI TN TX 

Georgia: Good News! Today, Governor Zell Miller signed into law
SB 247, NRA-supported right to carry reform legislation.  SB 247
clarifies prohibited areas where permit holders can lawfully
carry.  

Kansas: HB 2159, NRA-backed right to carry legislation, has
passed both the House and Senate and has been sent to a
conference committee, where differences can be ironed out. 
Members: Please continue calling Governor Graves at (913) 
296-3232 and urging him to support HB 2159.  

Illinois: HB 1061 and HB 1557, two NRA-supported right to carry
bills have passed the House Agriculture Committee and
Transportation Committee, respectively.  Both bills are currently
pending consideration on the House floor.  Also pending on the
House floor are HB 216, an NRA-backed firearms preemption
measure, that would end the patchwork quilt of local gun control
laws across the state and HB 395 mandatory trigger lock
legislation.  Members: Please contact your State Representatives
and encourage support of HB 1061, HB 1557 and HB 216 & urge
opposition to HB 395.  

Iowa: Early next week the full Senate will consider HF 142, a
measure that would allow Iowans to hunt deer with handguns. 
Members: Please call your State Senators and encourage them to
support HF 142.  

Louisiana: The NRA-supported range protection bill, SB 694 is
pending in the Senate Environmental Quality Committee.  Members:
Please call your State Senators and urge them to support SB 694. 

Nebraska: LB 465, NRA-backed right to carry legislation, is
scheduled to be reconsidered on Tuesday, April 15th.  It is
expected that a handful of anti-self-defense Senators will
continue to filibuster this bill if it is brought up for
reconsideration.  Members: Please call your State Senators and
urge your Senator to vote to end debate on this issue and to vote
to advance LB 465 to Select File (the next step in the
legislative process).  

New Jersey: Due to the efforts of the Coaliton of New Jersey
Sportsmen, some relief is finally occuring in New Jersey.  A
number of firearms the M1A and Colt Match Target rifle (new
production) have been removed from the Florio gun ban list. 
Hopefully there will be more to come.  

North Dakota: Governor Schafer has signed into law NRA-backed
right to carry reciprocity.  North Dakota will now recognize out
of state carry permits held by non-residents (if the permit's
issued by a state recognizing North Dakota's permits).  

Ohio: SB 41 and HB 209, two NRA-backed range protection bills are
currently in the Senate Judiciary Civil Subcommittee and the
House Transportation Committee, respectively.  Members: Please
call your state lawmakers and urge them to support these
measures.  

Rhode Island: Good News!  The Governor's omnibus anti-gun bill, H
6085 that was introduced back in early February is now officially
dead.  

Tennessee: On Wednesday, April 9, the House Judiciary Committee
will consider HB 1055, NRA-backed reforms to the state's current
right to carry system.  HB 1055 will eliminate delays and other
problems with issuance.  Members: Please call your State
Reperesentatives and urge them to support HB 1055.  

Texas: The House Public Safety Committee will hold a hearing on
HB 2909, the revised right to carry reform bill introduced by
Representatives Bill Carter and Ray Allen on Monday, April 7 at
4:00 p.m. in room E2.014 of the Capitol Extension in Austin. 
Members: Please plan to attend the hearing and to call your State
Representatives and urge them to support HB 2909. 

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.920FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 06 1997 17:41103
April 4, 1997

VIRGINIA

     The Virginia Senate on Wednesday soundly defeated an attempt
by Fairfax County legislators to override Governor Allen's vetoes
of two anti-gun bills.  The debate over SB 763 and SB 978 had
drawn national attention to the battle for gun owners' rights in
the Old Dominion.  Both pieces of legislation, which were
sponsored by Sen. Joseph Gartlan (D-Fairfax) and pushed by the
anti-gun Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, would have given
Fairfax County new authority to enact restrictive ordinances on
firearms owners.  Anti-gun politicians were able to slip both
bills through the legislature after each was significantly
amended to provide exemptions for concealed handgun permit
holders.

     Because of these amendments, supporters of SB 763 and SB 978
thought they would have an easy time getting both bills signed
into law.  But Governor George Allen, who has always been a
strong supporter of the Second Amendment, saw the hidden dangers
in both bills.  

     Noting that they would have no effect on those with criminal
intent, but could adversely affect Virginia's law-abiding gun
owners by creating a patchwork of restrictive local ordinances,
Governor Allen vetoed both bills.  Despite an aggressive lobbying
campaign by Northern Virginia legislators, the attempt to
override the Governor's vetoes was resoundingly rejected by the
Senate.  All gun owners owe a great debt to Governor George
Allen, who had the courage to stand up to the anti-gunners in the
legislature and the media in defense of our firearms freedoms. 
Members: Please call Governor Allen at (804) 786-2211 and thank
him for supporting your Second Amendment rights. 

VIRGINIA LEGISLATURE ACCEPTS GOVERNOR'S AMENDMENTS TO SB 944

     In another victory for Virginia's gun owners, the
Legislature approved Governor Allen's amendments to SB 944, which
reforms the state's current "right to carry" law.  SB 944 makes
the following significant improvements to the carry permit
system: 

     * Increases permit duration from 2 to 5 years;

     * Establishes a $50 cap on the fees for permit applicants,
     which when combined with the increased permit duration,
     effectively cuts the price of a permit from $25 per year to
     just $10 per year - one of the lowest rates in the nation;

     * Establishes reciprocity between Virginia and other states
     with similar standards for permit issuance;

     * Simplifies the permit application;

     * Clarifies that permits must be issued within 45 days
     regardless of whether federal background check is complete;

     * Requires that the court must accept payment for permits in
     any form currently accepted by the court for payment of
     other fees (i.e. cash, personal checks) and allows all fees
     to be paid in one lump sum.  

In addition to those changes, the Governor's amendments made
these revisions:

     * Removed the mandatory statewide fingerprinting language
     and replaced it with a county option provision.  Counties
     may now pass local ordinances requiring fngerprints, but the
     applicant may be charged no additional fees, meaning the
     county will have to pick up the tab.  Also, any fingerprints
     taken must now be returned to the applicant within 21 days
     of the completion of the background check or be destroyed by
     the State Police. 

     * Clarifies that permit holders may carry firearms in
     convenience, grocery stores, etc., that sell alcoholic
     beverages for off-premises consumption.  Also ensures that
     the prohibition on carrying will be limited to restaurants
     and private clubs, meaning permit holders will be able to
     exercise their "right to carry" at sporting and other events
     where alcoholic beverages are served.

     Governor Allen is expected to sign SB 944 shortly, and the
new law will be effective July 1, 1997.

GILMORE TO RESIGN: Attorney General Jim Gilmore announced this
week that he will step down to concentrate on the race for
Governor.  Gilmore, the only Republican seeking the gubernatorial
nomination, will leave the Attorney General's office on June 11,
the day after he officially becomes the Republican nominee for
governor.  Rumors are now circulating in Richmond that the top
candidate to fill Gilmore's position is Richard Cullen, a former
legislator who engineered the state's one-gun-a-month scheme. 
Members: Please call Governor Allen at (804) 786-2211 and urge
him not to appoint the anti-gun Cullen to this important office. 
         
=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.921FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 06 1997 17:41135
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 14                                             4/4/97

              NRA GRAPPLES WITH GLOBAL GUN GRABBERS

     The Wednesday, April 2 New York Times reported on the NRA's
continued efforts to protect the rights of law-abiding gun owners
in the international arena.  Evidence of a concerted
international anti-gun effort is not difficult to find: the
United Nations General Assembly ordered a panel to investigate
ways to control the flow of small arms in 1995, and that same
year, the U.N. Commission on Crime Prevention formed an "experts'
group" on firearms controls whose recommendations will be
considered by the Commission in May.  

     As previously reported, NRA-ILA's Non-Governmental
Organization status at the UN will allow us to monitor these
studies and speak out before UN bodies on behalf of American gun
owners.  NRA also joined last month with more than a dozen
firearms groups from five continents to form a "World Forum on
the Future of Sport Shooting Activities" so that gun owners can
share information worldwide.  When asked about NRA's efforts
abroad, Michael Beard -- president of a group working to ban the
possession and sale of all handguns -- said,  "It's a logical
response, because the entire world is questioning the role of
firearms in society now, and particularly looking at the United
States." Stay tuned for more information on illogical UN anti-gun
proposals!

MEANWHILE IN AUSTRALIA, gun clubs report membership is booming --
thanks to anti-gun legislation forcing shooters to show a
"genuine need" to own firearms. And according to Australia's
Advertiser (4/3/97) national membership in the Sporting Shooters
Association of Australia -- the NRA's counterpart Down Under --
has risen 50% in the past ten months as shooters realize the need
to unify against further anti-gun hysteria.

THE CONSTITUTION ON CAMPUS: Wednesday, April 16th, has been
designated "Constitution Day" on nearly 800 college campuses
throughout the United States.  Part of the first-ever "Coming Out
Conservative" week being orchestrated by the College Republican
National Committee, student activists on Wednesday will be
placing special emphasis on the Second Amendment, holding
meetings and distributing educational material promoting the
values of the U.S. Constitution.  Relatedly, NRA continues to
organize at the campus level, as this weekend staff are working
with pro-Second Amendment student volunteers in Texas.  For more
information on NRA-ILA's exciting college program -- and it's not
for conservatives only, call the Grassroots Division at 1-800-392-8683.    

A LOOK AT THE STATES:

Georgia: Good News! Today, Governor Zell Miller signed into law
SB 247, NRA-supported right to carry reform legislation.  SB 247
clarifies prohibited areas where permit holders can lawfully
carry.

Kansas: HB 2159, NRA-backed right to carry legislation, has
passed both the House and Senate and has been sent to a
conference committee, where differences can be ironed out. 
Members: Please continue calling Governor Graves at (913) 
296-3232 and urging him to support HB 2159.

Illinois: HB 1061 and HB 1557, two NRA-supported right to carry
bills have passed the House Agriculture Committee and
Transportation Committee, respectively.  Both bills are currently
pending consideration on the House floor.  Also pending on the
House floor are HB 216, an NRA-backed firearms preemption
measure, that would end the patchwork quilt of local gun control
laws across the state and HB 395 mandatory trigger lock
legislation.  Members: Please contact your State Representatives
and encourage support of HB 1061, HB 1557 and HB 216 & urge
opposition to HB 395.

Iowa: Early next week the full Senate will consider HF 142, a
measure that would allow Iowans to hunt deer with handguns. 
Members: Please call your State Senators and encourage them to
support HF 142.

Louisiana: The NRA-supported range protection bill, SB 694 is
pending in the Senate Environmental Quality Committee.  Members:
Please call your State Senators and urge them to support SB 694. 

Nebraska: LB 465, NRA-backed right to carry legislation, is
scheduled to be reconsidered on Tuesday, April 15th.  It is
expected that a handful of anti-self-defense Senators will
continue to filibuster this bill if it is brought up for
reconsideration.  Members: Please call your State Senators and
urge your Senator to vote to end debate on this issue and to vote
to advance LB 465 to Select File (the next step in the
legislative process).

New Jersey: Due to the efforts of the Coalition of New Jersey
Sportsmen, some relief is finally occurring in New Jersey.  A
number of firearms like the M1A and Colt Match Target rifle (new
production) have been removed from the Florio gun ban list. 
Hopefully there will be more to come.

North Dakota: Governor Schafer has signed into law NRA-backed
right to carry reciprocity.  North Dakota will now recognize out
of state carry permits held by non-residents (if the permit's
issued by a state recognizing North Dakota's permits).

Ohio: SB 41 and HB 209, two NRA-backed range protection bills are
currently in the Senate Judiciary Civil Subcommittee and the
House Transportation Committee, respectively.  Members: Please
call your state lawmakers and urge them to support these
measures.

Rhode Island: Good News!  The Governor's omnibus anti-gun bill, H
6085 that was introduced back in early February is now officially
dead.

Tennessee: On Wednesday, April 9, the House Judiciary Committee
will consider HB 1055, NRA-backed reforms to the state's current
right to carry system.  HB 1055 will eliminate delays and other
problems with issuance.  Members: Please call your State
Representatives and urge them to support HB 1055.

Texas: The House Public Safety Committee will hold a hearing on
HB 2909, the revised right to carry reform bill introduced by
Representatives Bill Carter and Ray Allen on Monday, April 7 at
4:00 p.m. in room E2.014 of the Capitol Extension in Austin. 
Members: Please plan to attend the hearing and to call your State
Representatives and urge them to support HB 2909.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.922FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 13 1997 13:19126
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly
 
             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No.  14                                     April 8, 1997

NJ Mother Wins: Child Killers Get Life In Prison

     As 7-year-old Joan D'Alessandro went door to door selling
her Girl Scout cookies to neighbors in Hillsdale, N.J., Joseph
McGowan took her into his home and murdered her.  That was 24
years ago.

     It wasn't over for the D'Alessandro family, though.  Twice,
in 1987 and again in 1994, McGowan came up for parole. Rosemarie
D'Alessandro calls her daughter's murder and the two campaigns to
block McGowan's parole the family's  "triple tragedy."

     Last week, after a three-year campaign by the D'Alessandros,
Gov. Christine Todd Whitman signed legislation that put into
force "Joan's law," named for the lost daughter.  It sets the
penalty for murder of a child age 13 or under during a sexual
attack at life in prison without parole, or the death penalty. 

     Because it impacts only those convicted after its enactment,
Joan's law won't prevent her killer from coming up for parole
again in 2003, however.

     "It's great that in the future the parents of some murdered
children won't have to fight their killers' paroles," said
CrimeStrike Director Elizabeth Swasey.  "It's tragic that so many
children die at the hands of convicted criminals who haven't paid
their full debts to society."
     
Juvenile Violent Crime Arrests Still High Despite 1995 Dip

     Even though juvenile arrests decreased 3% in 1995, the first
decline in a decade, juveniles still accounted for 18% of all
arrests in 1995, says a report from Office of Juvenile Justice
and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP). Juvenile violent crime
arrests were still 21% above their 1991 level and a whopping 67%
higher than in 1986, the agency said.

     Female arrests are an increasing increment of juvenile
crime, with violent crime arrests up 34% from 1991 to 1995. 
Girls now account for a quarter of juvenile arrests.

     The OJJDP report, "Juvenile Arrests 1995," derived from FBI
data, shows juveniles accounted for 14% of all violent crimes
cleared by arrest in 1995, including 9% of murders, 15% of
forcible rapes, 20% of robberies, and 13% of aggravated assault
arrests.  When it came to property crimes, juveniles accounted
for fully 35% of all arrests, OJJDP said.

     Though juvenile burglary and motor vehicle arrests were both
down, 11% and 17%, respectively, larceny-theft was up by 6%.
Juveniles also figured in 13% of drug arrests   up a staggering
138% since 1991.

     Juvenile homicide arrests, which increased nearly 170% from
1984 to 1993, a peak year, were down 23% for 1995, the second
year of decline, the OJJDP study found.

     The District of Columbia had the highest violent crime
arrest rate, 1,418 arrests of persons under age 18 per 100,000
persons ages 10-17.  Florida, with a rate of 799, and California
with 787 arrests per 100,000, led states with reporting data.

Florida To Put Ex-Inmates On Web

     Florida officials faced with having to give early releases
to more than 2,000 prison inmates as a result of a Supreme Court
ruling will put the criminals' names and residence plans on a
World Wide Web page, reports Corrections Digest.

     The Web site was created last year to provide the public and
law enforcement with information on missing children, most-wanted
fugitives and newly released sexual offenders.  The address is
www.fdle.state.fl.us.

Cop Killer Gets Death In New Jersey

     Robert "Mudman" Simon, 45,  a paroled motorcycle gang member
whose murder of a New Jersey police officer on May 6, 1995,
helped spur major criminal justice reform in Pennsylvania, has
been sentenced to death by a jury in Hunterdon County, N.J.

     Simon pled guilty last fall to the murder of Sgt. Ippolito
"Lee" Gonzalez during a traffic stop in Gloucester County.  Simon
had been paroled from a 1974 murder conviction just 11 weeks
earlier from a Pennsylvania prison.

     Massive publicity about Simon's parole helped build support
for a special Pennsylvania legislative session on crime that
enacted major reforms in the summer of 1995.

Paroled Bank Robber Does It Again!

     Two years after he was paroled from a federal prison after
serving 14 years of a 30-year prison term in connection with two
dozen bank robberies in the Sacramento area, Spencer Louis
Sawyer, 44, is in police custody there again.

     The charge?  Bank robbery.

     The FBI arrested Sawyer and three other men March 29 for the
robbery of seven Sacramento branch banks in a spree that began in
November.

     Bank robberies, FBI data show, increased from 6,915 in 1995
to 7,562 last year.

                 A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
      Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.923FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 13 1997 13:2189
April 10, 1997

Nebraska

Dear NRA Member:

LB 465, right to carry legislation, is currently pending before
the Nebraska Legislature.  LB 465 could come back up for
reconsideration on Tuesday, April 15.  It is critical that you
take the following step to ensure that this life-saving
legislation passes this session:

CALL YOUR STATE SENATOR.  Urge him or her to fight for passage of
LB 465 THIS SESSION.  It is expected that a handful of anti-self-
defense Senators will continue to filibuster this bill if it is
brought up for reconsideration.  Urge your Senator to vote to end
debate on this issue and to vote to advance LB 465 to "Select File"
(the next step in the legislative process.)  Phone numbers for
Senators are listed below.

Sincerely,

Tanya K. Metaksa
Executive Director NRA-ILA   

                       NEBRASKA LEGISLATURE

* Indicates co-sponsor of LB 465, please remember to thank them
for their support!
                                 
DISTRICT       SENATOR                  CAPITAL OFFICE NUMBER
                                        All Area Codes (402)

01        *Floyd P. Vrtiska                       471-2733
02        *Roger R. Wehrbein                      471-2613
03        *John C. Bruning                        471-2627
04        Kermit A. Brashear                      471-2621
05        Donald G. Preister                      471-2710
06        Pam Brown                               471-2714
07        John A. Hilgert                         471-2721
08        Eric J. Will                            471-2722
09        Shelly Kiel                             471-2723
10        Deborah S. Suttle                       471-2718
11        Ernie Chambers                          471-2612
12        Chris Abboud                            471-2623
13        Daniel C. Lynch                         471-2727
14        Ron E. Withem                           471-2730
15        *Ray Janssen                            471-2625
16        C.N. "Bud" Robinson                     471-2728
17        *Pat Engel                              471-2716
18        *Stan Schellpeper                       471-2801
19        *Gene Tyson                             471-2929
20        *Jim Jensen                             471-2622
21        *Carol Hudkins                          471-2673
22        *Jennie Robak                           471-2715
23        *Curt Bromm                             471-2719
24        *Elaine Stuhr                           471-2756
25        Jerome Warner                           471-2731
26        Don Wesely                              471-2610
27        DiAnna R. Schimek                       471-2632
28        Chris Beutler                           471-2633
29        LaVon Crosby                            471-2734
30        *David I. Maurstad                      471-2620
31        *Kate Witek                             471-2327
32        *George Coordsen                        471-2711
33        Ardyce L. Bohlke                        471-2712
34        Janis McKenzie                          471-2630
35        Chris Peterson                          471-2617
36        *Jim D. Cudaback                        471-2642
37        Doug Kristensen                         471-2726
38        *Edward J. Schrock                      471-2732
39        *Dwite A. Pedersen                      471-2885
40        *Merton J. Schrock                      471-2732
41        *Jerry Schmitt                          471-2631
42        *Donald W. Pederson                     471-2729
43        *James E. Jones                         471-2723
44        *W. Owen Elmer                          471-2805
45        D. Paul Hartnett                        471-2615
46        David M. Landis                         471-2720
47        Jerry Matzke                            471-2616
48        Joyce Hillman                           471-2802
49        *William (Bob) Wickersham               471-2725
     
=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.924FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 13 1997 13:21169
April 11, 1997

UPDATES: AK CA CO CT HI IL KS NE OR PA TN TX 

Alaska

Early next week the Senate Finance Committee will hold a hearing
on SB 141, NRA-supported right to carry reform legislation. 
Members: Please contact your legislative information office and
send a public opinion message to your Senator urging them to
support SB 141.

California

GUN CONTROL MEASURES APPROVED:  On Tuesday, April 8, the Assembly
Public Safety Committee considered most of the anti-gun Assembly
bills introduced in 1997.  AB 136 (Villaraigosa) and AB 247
(Scott), which seek to overturn the state's firearms preemption
law, allowing local governments to enact any kind of gun control
ordinance they wish, were passed by the committee and will move
directly to the Assembly floor to be voted on as early as next
week!  Time is short, so please contact your state assembly
member and urge them to OPPOSE AB 136 and AB 247!  Other bills
given approval by the committee were AB 532 (Knox), a firearm
rationing measure, AB 488 (Caldera), which would ban small,
inexpensive handguns, commonly used for self defense, AB 131
(Ortiz), a measure requiring stolen firearms be reported to law
enforcement within 48 hours, failure to do so resulting in an
infraction, and AB 1107 (Ortiz) a proposal that would essentially
ban gun shows on state property.  These bills now move to the
Assembly Appropriations Committee and we will keep you posted as
to when hearing dates are set.  Please contact assemblymembers,
Goldsmith, Bowler, Baugh, House, and Pacheco, who sit on the
Public Safety Committee, and thank them for supporting our Second
Amendment rights (refer to last week's Fax Alert for telephone
numbers).

SENATE ACTION:  On Tuesday, April 22, the Senate Public Safety
Committee will hold hearings on SB 500 (Polanco) and SB 513
(Hayden), which would ban the sale of affordable handguns or so
called "Saturday Night Specials", and SB 643 (Polanco), which is
another attempt at repealing California's state firearms
preemption statute.  Please contact committee members and urge
them to oppose these measures!  All number are in the (916) area
code.

Senate Criminal Procedure Committee

John Vasconcellos (Ch.)       445-9740
Richard Rainey (V. Ch.)       445-6083
John Burton                   445-1412
Quentin Kopp                  445-0503
Bruce McPherson               445-5843
Richard Polanco               445-3456
Adam Schiff                   445-5976
Diane Watson                  445-5215

CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE REJECTS "SATURDAY NIGHT SPECIAL" BAN IN
SAN DIEGO:  The San Diego City Council Public Safety and Safe
Neighborhoods Committee, on April 9, voted down a proposal to ban
the sale of inexpensive handguns.  Council Members Byron Wear,
(619) 236-6622, and Barbara Warden, (619) 236-6655, voted against
the measure.  Please contact them and thank them for standing up
for our rights!

GUN CONTROL DEBATE:  Pro-gun author and attorney, Don Kates, will
take on anti-gun State Assemblywoman Deborah Ortiz on the topic
of "gun laws and minorities".  The debate is scheduled to take
place at 6:00 pm, on April 16, in the lecture hall of the
McGeorge Law School, located at 3200 5th Avenue in Sacramento.

Colorado

SB 96, NRA-supported right to carry reform legislation, that
calls for improvements to the current discretionary concealed
handgun permit system is pending consideration in the House State
Affairs Committee.  Members: Please call your State
Representatives and urge them to support SB 96.  Also, please
call Governor Roy Romer at (303)866-2471 and urge him to support
SB 96.

Connecticut

An article printed in Wednesday's Journal Inquirer, in
Manchester, Connecticut, incorrectly stated NRA's position on
disclosure legislation currently pending in the Senate.  The
article falsely stated that the NRA supports this bill. 
Substitute Bill 1120 would lift a 3-year old ban on public access
to the names and addresses of people who receive approval to buy
or carry handguns and would also make public the names and
addresses of people who legally own semi-automatic firearms.  For
the record the NRA does not and will not support Substitute Bill
1120.

Hawaii

HB 233, the NRA-backed handgun hunting bill has been reported
favorably out of the Senate Judiciary Committee and is pending on
the Senate floor.  Members: Please call your State Senators and
urge them to support HB 233.

Illinois

Come join fellow gun owners at the Capitol on Wednesday, April 16
for "Lobby Day".  This event will be held from 9:00 am to 12:00
noon starting in the Stratton building located at the corner of
Monroe and College Streets in Springfield. For more information
call the NRA-ILA Grassroots Division at 1-800-392-8683.

Kansas

HB 2159, NRA-backed right to carry legislation, is now on
Governor Bill Graves' desk.  The Governor has threatened to veto
this important public safety measure and he needs to hear from
concerned gun owners, who want to see him sign HB 2159 into law. 
Members: Please contact Governor Graves at (913) 296-3232 or
(800) 748-4408.  Also, you can reach the Governor by e-mailing
him at governor@ink.org or by faxing him a short note at (913)
296-7973.

Nebraska

LB 465, NRA-backed right to carry legislation, could be back up
for reconsideration by the Legislature on Tuesday, April 15th. 
Anti-gun Senators are expected to continue filibustering the
measure.  Members: Please call your State Senators and urge them
to vote to end debate on LB 465 and advance the bill to Select
File (the next step in the legislative process).

Oregon

The House passed HJM 2, a resolution encouraging Oregon schools
to adopt NRA's Eddie Eagle gun safety program, on a 45-2 vote. 
Members: Please call your State Senators and urge them to support
HJM 2.

Pennsylvania

NRA-ILA successfully working with the states sportsmen's groups,
Govneror Tom Ridge and Senate and House leadership passed HB 149,
which NRA-ILA amended in the Senate to provide for 18 separate
improvements to Pennsylvania law. HB 149 is currently on Governor
Ridge's desk awaiting his expected signature.  Watch for an
Internet posting soon for a list of all 18 amendments.  

Tennessee

HB 1055, right to carry reform legislation is in trouble! 
Several members of the House Judiciary Committee are attempting
to insert damaging, anti-gun amendments.  Members: Please call
your State Representatives at 1-800-499-8366 and urge them to
oppose any damaging amendments to HB 1055.

Texas

The House passed HB 601, NRA-backed shooting range protection
legislation.  We'll keep you posted as to which committee the
bill is referred.  Also, the House Public Safety Committee
reported out HB 2909, NRA-supported right to carry reform
legislation.  Members: Please call your State Senators and urge
them to support HB 601 and your State Representatives to support
HB 2909.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.925FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 13 1997 13:22126
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 15                                            4/11/97

                    TRAFFICKING IN FALSEHOODS

     On Wednesday, two of the nation's most vocal anti-gunners,
Rep. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) again
teamed up to promote their latest anti-gun concoction, "The Gun
Kingpin Penalty Act of 1997."  The law would impose a new federal
penalty on individuals who smuggle five or more guns across state
lines in the course of a year to sell them.  The bill calls for
an additional 200 Treasury Department officers to enforce this
law.  The legislation has yet to be introduced, but there are
already ample laws on the books to deal with illegal gun running
-- a fact Schumer and Durbin would have you ignore as they try to
falsely paint NRA and law-abiding gun owners as friends of
criminal gun dealers.  For example, since 1968, it's been illegal
for anyone to transfer a handgun to an individual who does not
reside in the same state.  Conversely, one may only buy a handgun
from a dealer within his legal state of residence.  Violation of
this law -- five years in jail per gun.  Also, since 1968, it's
been a federal crime to transfer a firearm to anyone who is a
known criminal or someone who the seller knows will commit a
crime with the gun.  The penalty for violation of this statute --
10 years.  As is par for the course for the Clinton/Gore
Administration, existing federal laws are not being enforced, and
we've seen numerous examples of criminals not being charged for
this particular crime or receiving sentences of only a fraction
of what the law requires.  Not surprisingly, Schumer draws most
of his conclusions from trace data furnished by BATF, that BATF
itself and the Congressional Research Service have concluded does
"not constitute a random sample [of guns and] data from the
tracing system may not be appropriate for drawing inferences such
as which makes or models of firearms are used for illicit
purposes."  Finally, in Schumer's "gun trafficking  report,"
South Carolina is continuously cited as a top source for illegal
guns.  Yet, since 1975, that state has had its own "one gun a
month" law that its supporters specifically claimed would curb
illegal gun running. Go figure!

SMOKING "GUN?": Tomorrow evening, ABC will premier a new series
entitled "Gun."  Directed by Robert Altman  (of "M*A*S*H" fame),
the show will feature a nickel-plated 1911 Colt that  changes
hands each week, thus giving viewers a new, weekly story line. 
The show's co-producer noted this particular gun was chosen for
its "photogenic" qualities.   Although Altman is an outspoken
advocate of "gun control" (as are many of the show's co-stars),
he insists "'Gun' isn't a political show and reflects no personal
agenda."  TV Guide sees the show somewhat differently, saying
Altman is "out to mock" what the reviewer labels, "our dangerous
fascination with use of man's deadliest inventions..."

NO NONSENSE IN NO. CAROLINA: The 4/6/97 Raleigh News & Observer
reports the State Bureau of Investigation has reported that not
one of the guns carried by the 20,082 Right to Carry permit
holders has been used to commit a crime.  Lisa Price, Executive
Director of North Carolinians Against Gun Violence and wife of
anti-gun Congressman David Price (D-N.C.), was quoted as saying,
"I still think it's bad legislation, although it doesn't seem to
have turned out as bad as we thought it would be."  Well, she's
half right!  Meanwhile, North Carolina observed its first-ever
Eddie Eagle Gun Safety Week as the state legislature and Governor
Hunt honored NRA's award-winning child safety program -- yet
another way North Carolinians have shown common sense on the gun
issue.   

A LOOK AT THE STATES:

COLORADO: Two open houses will be held for the public to talk
with staff of the Pike National Forest over future plans for
public use of 1000 acres  that surrounds their Fire Center.  Pike
National Forest is located about 17 miles north of Colorado
Springs.   While hunting is currently allowed on this land, to
ensure that your recreational interests are protected, you're
encouraged to attend one of the open houses scheduled for April
24th from 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. and April 26th from  10:30
a.m.-2:30 p.m.  For more information, contact the National Forest
at 719/636-1602.

CONNECTICUT: An article printed in Wednesday's Journal Inquirer
in Manchester incorrectly stated NRA supported  Substitute bill
1120, that seeks to lift a 3-year old ban on public access to the
names and addresses of people who receive approval to buy or
carry handguns and the names and addresses of people who legally
own semi-automatic firearms.  NRA does not and will not support
Substitute bill 1120.

ILLINOIS:  Come join your fellow gun owners for "Lobby Day" at
the Capitol.  The event will be held on Wed., 4/16, from 9:00
a.m. to 12:00 p.m. starting in the Stratton Building located at
the corner of Monroe and College Streets in Springfield.  "Lobby
Day" will allow you to learn of firearms-related bills pending in
the Legislature and to meet directly with your lawmakers to
express your views on these bills. For more information call the
NRA-ILA Grassroots Division.

KANSAS: HB 2159, NRA-backed right to carry legislation, is now on
Gov. Bill Graves' desk.  The Gov. has threatened to veto this
important public safety measure and he needs to hear from you! 
Please contact Gov. Graves at (800) 748-4408.

NEBRASKA: LB 465, NRA-backed right to carry legislation, could be
back up for reconsideration by the Legislature on Tuesday, April
15th.  Anti-gun Senators are expected to continue filibustering
the measure.  Please call your State Senators and urge them to
vote to end debate on LB 465 and advance the bill to Select File.

A MUST READ: NRA-ILA Executive Director, Tanya Metaksa, has just
published a book on how women can make their right to self-
defense work for them.  Safe, Not Sorry is now available at
bookstores.  If your local bookstore isn't carrying Safe, Not
Sorry, urge them to call Harper Collins to place their order. 
(All royalties from Safe, Not Sorry will go to NRA-ILA.)  Mrs.
Metaksa will also be hitting the road in May to promote Safe, Not
Sorry.  For a listing of her book tour dates, please call the
NRA-ILA Grassroots Division at 1-800-392-8683.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.926WMOIS::GIROUARD_CMon Apr 14 1997 10:2612
    I read the article in the TV Guide this week. Nice to see a publication
    so far removed from this issue so objective <insert sarcastic smirk>.
    
    It would not surprise me one bit if we found out, at some point, that
    this show had connections to some anti or even the gov't agency.
    
    TV Guide, if they're going to enter the world of political editorials,
    should no better. They should stick to what they know, critiquing 
    television shows. They should keep their collective noses out of areas
    they do not know or understand.
    
    Chip
6300.927FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 20 1997 19:0357
April 16, 1997

ALERT TO OREGON NRA MEMBERS:

An alleged pro-gun organization has e-mailed its membership
asking them to pressure Sen. Shirley Stull, chair of the Senate
Crime & Corrections Committee, to hold a hearing on SB 673.  The
bill gives the Oregon State Police authority to expand Oregon's
current instant record check system for handguns to all firearms. 
Under the Brady Act, the proposed National Instant Criminal
Background Check System (NICBCS), which covers all firearms, is
set to take effect on November 30, 1998.

In an effort to sell this bill to gun owners in the state, the
above-mentioned organization has argued that it would be better
for Oregon to adopt its own laws covering rifle and shotgun sales
rather than be subject to an instant check system for those
firearms at the federal level.

Consider this important fact: UNDER OREGON'S INSTANT CHECK SYSTEM
FOR HANDGUN PURCHASES, THE OREGON STATE POLICE ARE MAINTAINING A
REGISTRY OF LAWFUL HANDGUN OWNERS AND THE HANDGUNS THEY HAVE
LEGALLY PURCHASED.  THIS INFORMATION IS CURRENTLY BEING KEPT FOR
FIVE YEARS.  Prior to 1994 it was a criminal penalty for any
state agency to maintain records on lawful firearms purchases.

Under the Brady Act, the chief law enforcement officer who is
contacted for a criminal records check must destroy all
information relating to a handgun transfer within 20 days if the
purchaser is not found to be disqualified from receiving a
handgun.  Under the Brady Act's proposed national instant check
system, all records with respect to a call for a criminal records
check must be destroyed, other than a unique identification
number assigned to an approved transfer and the date on which the
number is assigned.  The unique identification number is recorded
on the 4473 forms which remain with the dealer.  YOU DECIDE
whether Oregon rifle and shotgun buyers would be better off under
the current state registration system, or under federal law,
which specifically prohibits such records from being maintained
by any agency! 

Sen. Stull is an adamant supporter of the Second Amendment. 
Those of you who believe there should not be a gun registration
system in Oregon should call Senator Stull and thank her for not
hearing SB 673 until amendments are adopted which (1) eliminate
the current and prevent any future registration system on lawful
firearms sales (as Brady provisions do); and (2) delay
implementation of Oregon's instant check on rifles and shotguns
UNTIL the federal system is up and operational.  You can reach
Senator Stull at 1-800-332-2313.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.928FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 20 1997 19:03130
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly

             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No.  15                                    April 15, 1997

Oklahoma To Combat Crime With Truth-In-Sentencing Law

     Oklahoma's Senate is poised this week to pass sweeping
criminal justice reform that includes Truth-In-Sentencing
legislation that will end parole and embark the state on a prison
construction expansion program that will add 600 more beds and
allow leasing up to 1,500 private prison beds  to relieve the
state's crowded prisons.

     The legislation ending early parole by requiring violent
offenders to serve at lest 85% of their sentences passed the
House last week by a 96-1 vote.  A conference committee report on
the prison bill has been adopted by the House, and  Gov. Frank
Keating is poised to sign both pieces of legislation, reports the
Associated Press.

     Oklahoma's violent crime rate ranked it 16th nationally in
1995, according to FBI data.  The state also was third among all
states in homicide and 12th in both aggravated assault and rape
rates. 

     "This essentially makes Oklahoma a state that no longer
recognizes the concept of parole," Senate President Pro Tem
Stratton Taylor said.  "For the first time, if someone does the
crime they are going to do the time."
     
Tougher Maryland Pretrial Release Law?

     Maryland legislators acted last week to close one of the
state's notorious revolving crime doors that required prosecutors
to convince courts that violent crime suspects were dangerous and
shouldn't be released on bail, regardless of their criminal
records or the severity of the crime(s) with which they are
charged.

     Prince George's County Police Chief John S. Farrell, who
presides over the populace county adjoining the District of
Columbia, has waged a one-man campaign for just such a fix. 

     Under the new legislation, HB497, violent crime suspects
with prior convictions will bear the onus of convincing a judge
that they don't present a danger if released on bond. The law
makes it a rebuttable presumption that they "will flee and pose a
danger to another person or the community."  Most other states,
among them the neighboring District of Columbia and Virginia,
have similar "preventive detention" laws.

     Retired Circuit Court Judge Vincent J. Femia told the
Washington Post that the bill would particularly impact domestic
violence cases.

     Chief Farrell and County Executive Wayne K. Curry gave
legislators in Annapolis data showing that 21% of all robbers
arrested in their county in the past three months were free on
bail for prior crimes.  In one case reported here Jan. 14, a man
arrested for robbery and then released in the care of a private
electronic monitoring firm was charged with three rapes and the
robbery of two other women while free.

     Last month, Farrell again expressed his outrage when two of
the three men charged with murdering a District of Columbia
police officer in Prince George's County were found to be free
while awaiting prosecution on other charges.

BJS Says Violent Crime Down

     The nation's violent crime rate tumbled 12.4% in 1995, the
biggest drop since it began surveying crime victims in 1973, the
Bureau of Justice Statistics reported Sunday.

     Its findings came in the National Crime Victimization Survey
(NCVS), which serves along with the FBI's Uniform Crime Reports
as the primary source for crime data. (The FBI data, released
last fall, had violent crime down 9% for 1995.)

     "States are stopping the use of parole as a prison
population management tool," said CrimeStrike Director Elizabeth
Swasey.  "They're taking young murderers seriously; they're
listening to victims and survivors, and now we're reaping the
rewards in the form of lower crime rates," she said.

     The NCVS found rape down 20%, robbery down 13.1% and assault
down nearly 12% from 1994 to 1995.  Since the numbers are
calculated from interviews with crime victims, the study does not
yield murder data. 

Louisiana Weighs Victims' Rights Law

     Louisiana will bid to be the 30th state to add a crime
victims' bill of rights to the state constitution with
legislation that cleared the state Senate 37-0 last week. The
measure requires a two-thirds House vote to place the issue
before voters in the 1998 congressional elections.

Two More Killers Denied Release

     Thomas Ryan Atkinson, convicted in 1977 for the murder of
his business partner Don Martin, has been denied parole by the
Illinois Prisoner Review Board.  Two hundred Illinois residents
signed petitions opposing Atkinson's parole from his 45- to 100-
year prison sentence.  He is the 44th killer targeted by
CrimeStrike's "Keep Killers In Prison" campaign to be denied
parole.

     Thanks to NRA volunteers in Mississippi, Charles Bonds,
convicted in the stabbing death of his ex-wife in Forrest County
in 1989, became the 45th killer denied parole.  He will not get
parole reconsideration from Mississippi Parole Board until August
1998.

                 A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
      Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.929FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 20 1997 19:03166
April 17, 1997

Two Alerts: Mandatory Training for Handgun Purchases, and Banning 
            Non-FFL Handgun Sales At Gun Shows


ALERT TO TEXAS GUN OWNERS

         Texas House Public Safety Committee Sets Hearing
             For Monday, April 21 on House Bill 1980:

            Banning Non-FFL Handgun Sales At Gun Shows

The Texas House Committee on Public Safety will hear HB 1980,
Rep. Danburg's bill to ban handgun sales by non-licensed dealers
at gun shows, on Monday, April 21, at 4:00 p.m. in Room E2.014 of
the capitol in Austin.

Supporters of HB 1980 think we need another law to prevent career
criminals from purchasing handguns, but existing law ALREADY
prohibits the sale of firearms to criminals who won't obey
another law anyway!

    * Section 46.06(a)(4) of the Texas Penal Code makes it a
    Class A misdemeanor for ANYONE -- licensed dealer, non-
    licensed dealer or other individual -- to sell firearms
    or ammunition to convicted felons.
    
    * Section 46.06(a)(2) of the Texas Penal Code makes it a
    Class A misdemeanor for ANYONE -- licensed dealer, non-
    licensed dealer or other individual -- to sell any
    firearm to a child younger than 18 years of age without
    written permission from the child's parent or legal
    guardian.
    
Supporters of HB 1980 hope that Texas gun owners won't see this as
an infringement on our Second Amendment rights.  But if you think
passage of HB 1980 doesn't affect you -- YOU'RE WRONG!  HB 1980 is
strongly supported by some of the most anti-gun groups in the
state; in fact, it has been widely distributed that enactment of
HB 1980 is one of their top legislative priorities this session! 
This bill is not where their agenda ends.  You can bet they'll be
back with proposals to end all private handgun transfers or an end
to all gun shows PERIOD!

The future of gun shows in the State of Texas depends on your
willingness to take the following actions:

(1) PLEASE CALL AND FAX MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE PUBLIC SAFETY
COMMITTEE TODAY AND URGE THEM TO OPPOSE HB 1980!  Tell them to
push for enforcement of existing laws and not another attempt to
restrict the lawful purchase and sale of handguns. 

House Committee on Public Safety

Representative                        Phone          Fax  

Keith Oakley (Chair), Terrell         (512) 463-0458 (512)463-5896
Joe Driver (Vice-Chair), Garland      (512) 463-0574 (512)463-5896
Bill Carter, Fort Worth               (512) 463-0482 (512)463-1283
Terry Keel, Austin                    (512) 463-0652 (512)477-7121
Jim Keffer, Eastland                  (512) 463-0656 (512)463-5896
Jerry Madden, Richardson              (512) 463-0544 (512)463-9974
Ruth Jones McClendon, San Antonio     (512) 463-0708 (512)463-7071
Dora Olivo, Rosenburg                 (512) 463-0494 (512)463-1403
Elvira Reyna, Mesquite                (512) 463-0464 (512)463-1492

(2) PLAN TO ATTEND MONDAY'S  PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE HEARING IN
OPPOSITION TO HB 1980!  Again, the House Public Safety Committee
will meet at 4:00 p.m. in Room E2.014 of the capitol extension. 
At the hearing, you may either sign up against the bill and choose
not to testify, or sign up in opposition AND testify.  Either way,
our opposition needs to be well-represented, so make your plans to
be in Austin on Monday!


April 17, 1997

SPECIAL ALERT TO TEXAS GUN OWNERS

            House Public Safety Committee Sets Hearing
              For Monday, April 21 on House Bill 165:

             Mandatory Training for Handgun Purchases

The Texas House Committee on Public Safety has will hold a
hearing on HB 165, Rep. Naishtat's mandatory training bill, on
Monday, April 21, at 4:00 p.m. in Room E2.014 of the capitol
extension in Austin.

* HB 165 is unnecessary.  The statistics below show the decline
in the number of fatal firearms accidents among the following age
groups over past decade and a half: 

     Age Group      % Decline in fatal firearms
                    accidents since 1980

     0-19                     56%
     20-39                    58%
     40-59                    64%
     60-99                    53%
     All ages                 58%

* For all age categories, the number of fatal firearms accidents
in 1995 was lower than at any other point in the last 16 years! 
Don't be fooled by the misinformation being distributed by anti-
gun groups who support this bill.  When compiling their figures
for firearms deaths, they include homicides and suicides -- acts
which any kind of training -- whether it be voluntary or
mandatory -- would not have prevented.

* HB 165 sets up a bureaucracy that would grossly extend the
waiting period for handgun purchases and could lead to a state
registry of future handgun owners.  Supporters of HB 165 claim it
is NOT a licensing bill -- perhaps "permit-to-purchase" is a more
appropriate description.  DPS would be required to issue
certificates to anyone wishing to purchase or receive transfer of
a handgun, indicating that they have successfully completed a 10-
hour handgun training course or passed an "objective" test. 
Nothing prohibits the agency from maintaining a registry of
individuals receiving such certificates.  Nor does the bill allow
exemptions to this requirement for individuals who receive
informal handgun instruction.  By the time an individual wishing
to purchase a handgun for self-defense schedules class time,
completes the required course or exam and, finally, receives
their certificate from DPS, the 5-day waiting period has been
extended to two weeks or even two months!  HB 165 is nothing more
than an attempt to delay or discourage lawful handgun purchases. 

* HB 165 ignores the fact that the majority of firearms owners
are responsible citizens who voluntarily seek out training
through a variety of programs and available resources.  Backers
of HB 165 will argue that NRA should support this bill because we
promote firearms safety education and are mentioned as a
potential resource for training under its provisions.  We will
continue to encourage voluntary participation in NRA training
programs, which have vastly contributed to the decline in
firearm-related accidents across the country and in the State of
Texas. 

(1) PLEASE CALL MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE
LISTED BELOW AND URGE THEM TO OPPOSE HB 165!   

House Committee on Public Safety

Representative                     Phone          Fax  

Keith Oakley (Chair), Terrell      (512) 463-0458 (512)463-5896
Joe Driver (Vice-Chair), Garland   (512) 463-0574 (512)463-5896
Bill Carter, Fort Worth            (512) 463-0482 (512)463-1283
Terry Keel, Austin                 (512) 463-0652 (512)477-7121
Jim Keffer, Eastland               (512) 463-0656 (512)463-5896
Jerry Madden, Richardson           (512) 463-0544 (512)463-9974
Ruth Jones McClendon, San Antonio  (512) 463-0708 (512)463-7071
Dora Olivo, Rosenburg              (512) 463-0494 (512)463-1403
Elvira Reyna, Mesquite             (512) 463-0464 (512)463-1492

(2) MAKE PLANS TO ATTEND MONDAY'S COMMITTEE HEARING IN OPPOSITION
TO HB 165!       

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.930FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 20 1997 19:03136
April 18, 1997

   ** STATE LEGISLATIVE UPDATES FOR CA, FL, IL, KS, LA & TX **

California

MORE ANTI-GUN BILLS ON THE MOVE:  Tuesday, April 8, saw more gun
control legislation come out of Assembly Public Safety Committee. 
AB 23 (PERATA),  a measure which would greatly expand the
Roberti-Roos Assault Weapon Control Act, requiring registration
on a multitude new firearms and magazines that hold more than ten
rounds, and AB 304 (SCOTT),  a proposal that would increase the
penalty, currently a misdemeanor, to a possible felony for
carrying a concealed firearm without a permit, were approved. 
These measures now move to the Assembly Appropriations Committee
for consideration.  AB 1201 (SHELLEY), legislation which would
have required handgun purchasers to obtain a state issued
license, or "permit to purchase", was defeated on a 7-1 vote, but
has been granted reconsideration.  We will keep you posted on
that one.

NEXT WEEK:  The committee, on Tuesday, April 22, will continue
hearings on anti-gun bills including AB 1123 (ARONER), a proposal
which would require the sale of trigger locks with firearms and
mandates their use during storage or transportation, and AB 991
(PERATA), which would require new residents of California to
register firearms.  Please contact committee members and urge
them to oppose these measures!  Please note, the Assembly Public
Safety Committee has been reduced from thirteen members to eight. 
All phone numbers are in the (916) area code:

Robert Hertzberg (Ch.)   445-7644
Jan Goldsmith (V. Ch.)   445-2484
Larry Bowler             445-7402
George House             445-7906
Kevin Murray             445-8800
Grace Napolitano         445-0965
Don Perata               445-7442
Carl Washington          445-7486

STATE FIREARMS PREEMPTION REPEAL PENDING:  Two proposals seeking
to overturn California's state firearms preemption statute, AB
136 (VILLARAIGOSA) and AB 247 (SCOTT) are awaiting a vote by the
full Assembly.  This is a serious threat to gun owners throughout
the state, as it would allow local government to enact any type
of gun control they desire.  It is critical that gun owners
contact their state assemblymembers and politely urge them to
oppose these measures!

IN THE SENATE:  On Tuesday, April 22, the Senate Public Safety
Committee has scheduled hearings for SB 500 (POLANCO), an attempt
to ban so called "non-sporting" pistols and revolvers, SB 513
(HAYDEN), which seeks to limit firearm purchases to one every
thirty days, ban the sale of high capacity magazines, and
increase the penalty for concealed carry without a permit to a
possible felony. Also to be considered are SB 643 (POLANCO),
another effort to repeal the state firearms preemption law, and
SB 1339 (CALDERON), which would ban the possession of high
capacity magazines.  Please contact members of the Senate Public
Safety Committee and express your opposition!  All phone numbers
are in the (916) area code:

John Vasconcellos (Ch.)  445-9740
Richard Rainey (V. Ch.)  445-6083
John Burton              445-1412
Quentin Kopp             445-0503
Bruce McPherson          445-5843
Richard Polanco          445-3456
Adam Schiff              445-5976
Diane Watson             445-5215

PRO-GUN CANDIDATE ELECTED IN POMONA:  Elliot Rothman was
successful in his run for a seat on the Pomona City Council,
grabbing 62 percent of the vote.  Just in time too!  On the eve
of Councilman-elect Rothman's swearing in, the Council may
consider a proposal to ban  so called "Saturday Night Specials". 
Thanks to area NRA members who cast a ballot!

Florida

The House has passed HB 909, NRA-backed legislation requiring
Florida to recognize valid out-of-state carry licenses, on an 
86-25 vote.  The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration. 
We'll keep you posted!

Illinois

In an unprecedented parliamentary maneuver, anti-gun House
Speaker Mike Madigan ruled that a supermajority vote (71 votes)
were necessary for passage of the NRA-backed right to carry and
firearms preemption bill.  As a result, sponsor Rep. Mike Weaver
asked that further consideration of HB 1557 be held until a later
date. We'll keep you posted! Members: Please call Speaker Madigan
and express your dissatisfaction with his ruling.  

Kansas

The NRA-backed right to carry bill, HB 2159 is still on Governor
Bill Graves' desk.  Time is running short and the Governor needs
to hear from you Today! Members: Please contact Governor Graves
at (913) 296-3232 or (800) 748-4408.  Also, you can reach the
Governor by e-mailing him at governor@ink.org or by faxing him a
short note at (913) 296-7973.  

Louisiana

HB 824, an NRA-opposed measure, that would give parishes the
voting ability to opt out of allowing law-abiding citizens to
carry firearms concealed for personal protection (even though
they possess a statewide issued right to carry permit) will soon
be voted on by the full House.  Members:  Please call your State
Representatives at (504) 342-6945 and urge them to oppose HB 824. 
Ohio: HB 60, NRA-backed legislation allowing hunting on Sunday's
will be considered by the House Agriculture & Natural Resources
Committee on Wednesday, April 23.  A companion bill, SB 103 has
also been introduced on the Senate side, but a hearing has not
yet been scheduled.  Members: Please contact your State
Representatives and urge them to support HB 60.

Texas

On Monday, April 21, the House Public Safety Committee is
scheduled to consider a number of anti-gun bills, including HB
165 (mandatory training for handgun purchases) and HB 1980 (ban
on handguns sales by non-FFLs at gun shows).  Members: please
plan to attend Monday's hearing at 4:00 p.m. in Room E2.014 of
the capitol extension in Austin.  Also, please call committee
members and urge them to oppose HB 165, HB 1980 and other anti-
gun bills before the committee.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.931FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 20 1997 19:03126
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 15                                            4/18/97

                     PROBLEMS PERSIST AT FBI 

     A number of stories last week illustrated the need for
better accountability within the federal law enforcement
community. On April 9th, The Washington Post reported that
prosecutors close to the Ruby Ridge investigation have serious
concerns about a cover-up among federal agents with information
about the deadly shootout.  U.S. District Judge Ricardo Urbina
has been asked by investigators to help with what the Post
describes as "recalcitrant law enforcement witnesses" who do not
seem too eager to shed any light on the continuing Ruby Ridge
probe.  Additionally, as cited in a memorandum from FBI Director
Louis Freeh and reported in The New York Times April 11th, the
Department of Justice concluded that FBI agents made "a major
error in judgement" last July when they used deceptive tactics in
an effort to persuade Richard Jewell to waive his constitutional
rights in an interview about the bombing at Centennial Olympic
Park in Atlanta.  Amazingly, it has been admitted that agents
tricked Mr. Jewell into talking about the case by telling him
they wanted his help in making a training film about bomb
detection, when in fact they were probing for incriminating
evidence against him.  These revelations surface at the same time
of renewed criticisms of the Bureau's vaunted crime laboratory's
apparent mishandling of volumes of evidence.       

     These events, taken separately or together, highlight why
NRA first launched its campaign to investigate and correct
apparent abuses by certain individuals within the federal law
enforcement community.  Last year, we thought we had seen the
culmination of our efforts as Congress prepared to approve our
long sought establishment of an independent blue ribbon law
enforcement commission, that would review these practices and
make recommendations on how these problems could be corrected. 
Unfortunately, in the waning moments of the 104th Congress,
funding for this commission was stripped.  Now, more than ever,
the American people deserve to have their concerns addressed. 

ACTION ITEM: The House Appropriations Committee is expected to
take action on the commission April 23rd, so we encourage you to
call your U.S. Representatives and urge them to support funding
for this blue ribbon law enforcement commission.
     
FOP FILES SUIT: The Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) has filed
suit challenging the Lautenberg amendment.  A past supporter of
the Clinton/Gore "gun control" team, the FOP is somewhat miffed
because no one -- even  law enforcement officers -- is exempted. 
What's more is this law is being enforced retroactively, such
that individuals convicted of one of these misdemeanors 10, 20,
or even 30 years ago are now being told they cannot own or
possess firearms.  NRA, who has worked with FOP to shift their
focus from gun control to criminal control, filed an amicus
curiae brief in support of the principles behind FOP's actions.
The suit has been filed in the U.S. District Court for the
District of Columbia, and we are currently awaiting a decision.
Additionally on this front, two NRA-supported bills are currently
pending in the U.S. House on the domestic violence law.  H.R. 26,
sponsored by Rep. Bob Barr (R-Ga.), seeks to end the retroactive
enforcement of this law and has already had a Judiciary Committee
hearing; H.R. 1009, introduced by Rep. Helen Chenoweth (R-Id.),
calls for the law's outright repeal. Members are encouraged to
call their U.S. Representative at 202/224-3121 in support of
these measures.

H.R. 339 GAINS SUPPORT: Rep. Cliff Stearn's Right to Carry
reciprocity bill continues to get the attention of fellow
lawmakers in the U.S. Congress.  The bill, which would require
states to recognize other states' concealed weapons permits,
currently has 34 co-sponsors.  Recent additions to the bipartisan
list of supporters include Rep. Mike McIntyre (D-N.C.), Rep. Jim
Bunning (R-Ky), Rep. Earl Hilliard (D-Ala), and Rep. Bob Ney 
(R-Ohio).  Please call your congressman and urge him to support this
important legislation, and if yours is already a co-sponsor, be
sure to thank them for their support!        

A LOOK AT THE STATES:

FLORIDA: The House has passed HB 909, NRA-backed legislation
requiring Florida to recognize valid, out-of-state carry
licenses, on an 86-25 vote.  The bill now moves to the Senate for
consideration.  We'll keep you posted!

ILLINOIS: In an unprecedented parliamentary maneuver, anti-gun
House Speaker Mike Madigan ruled that a supermajority vote (71
votes) was necessary for passage of the NRA-backed right to carry
and firearms preemption bill.  As a result, sponsor Rep. Mike
Weaver asked that further consideration of HB 1557 be held until
a later date. Members: Please call Speaker Madigan and express
your dissatisfaction with his ruling.

KANSAS: The NRA-backed right to carry bill, HB 2159, is still on
Governor Bill Graves' desk.  Time is running short and the
Governor needs to hear from you today! Members: Please contact
Governor Graves at (913) 296-3232 or (800) 748-4408.  Also, you
can reach the Governor by e-mailing him at governor@ink.org or by
faxing him a short note at (913) 296-7973.

LOUISIANA: HB 824, an NRA-opposed measure that would give
parishes the voting ability to opt out of allowing law-abiding
citizens to carry firearms concealed for personal protection
(even though they possess a statewide issued right to carry
permit) will soon be voted on by the full House.  Members: Please
call your State Representatives at (504) 342-6945 and urge them
to oppose HB 824.

TEXAS: On Monday, April 21, the House Public Safety Committee is
scheduled to consider a number of anti-gun bills, including HB
165 (mandatory training for handgun purchases) and HB 1980 (ban
on handgun sales by non-FFLs at gun shows).  Members: please plan
to attend Monday's hearing at 4:00 p.m. in Room E2.014 of the
capitol extension in Austin.  Also, please call committee members
and urge them to oppose HB 165, HB 1980 and other anti-gun bills
before the committee.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.932FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 20 1997 19:04314
                          NRA GRASSFIRE!
              The Newsletter for NRA-ILA Volunteers

April, 1997                                        Vol. 3., No. 4

               PRESIDENT'S PLACE IN HISTORY SECURE

   If there was somehow any doubt that President Bill Clinton is
the most anti-gun President in our history, it has been erased. 
On March 5, the President took a number of steps consistent with
his hostility toward law-abiding gun owners.  First, in urging
Congress to pass his national trigger lock bill (that would
require FFLs to sell a trigger lock with every handgun), Clinton
directed all federal agencies to require trigger locks to be
issued with every government-issued handgun.  In pure political
posturing, the President ignored the facts that firearms are used
2.5 million times annually for self-defense (and trigger locks
would curtail their use) and that trigger lock manufacturers
specifically warn against using the devices on loaded guns. 
Additionally, Mr. Clinton turned a blind eye toward NRA's safety
and training efforts, which have reached more than five million
Americans in the last eight years, and have driven down the fatal
firearms accident rate to an all-time low (National Center for
Health Statistics).  Through our national network of 35,000
certified instructors, NRA provides more training than any
organization in the U.S. -- including the military!  It's time
the President acknowledged that education, not politics, stand at
the heart of firearms safety.

   Much as could be predicted, the anti-self-defense contingent
has already taken up the banner on this front and introduced
legislation to this effect.  Co-sponsored by Sens. Boxer (D-
Cal.), Durbin (D-Ill.), Kohl (D-Wisc.), Chafee (R-R.I.), and
Reps. Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.), S. 70, "The
Child Safety Lock Act of 1997," also ignores the benefits of
handguns for defensive purposes and belittles the true solution
to reducing firearms accidents -- training and education.  What's
more, under S. 70, individuals who fail to "properly lock and
store" their guns could be held criminally liable.  Please
contact your lawmakers in Washington at 202/224-3121 in
opposition to this bill.  For the latest information on firearms
safety, the use of handguns for self-defense, and the fallacy of
mechanical locking devices as foolproof measures, contact the
NRA-ILA Grassroots Division at 1-800-392-8683.

   Next, the President stated his support for a bill introduced
by Sens. Kennedy (D-Mass.) and Durbin (D-Ill.) to prohibit
foreign visitors from lawfully purchasing or possessing firearms. 
Unfortunately, this proposal is inconsistent with the very fabric
of our nation, that causes millions of foreigners to move to the
United States specifically so they may enjoy the U.S.A.'s unique
individual freedoms.  What's more, the Kennedy-Durbin bill would
threaten legal U.S. citizens who may look or sound foreign, and
prohibit individuals legally within our borders from exercising
their means of self-defense.  According to Kennedy, "There is no
legitimate reason why someone who is in the United States
temporarily should be able to purchase or carry a firearm here."
(New York Times, 2/28/97).  That's easy for Kennedy to say, as he
has enjoyed the protection of a corps of armed bodyguards!

   Finally, the President renewed his push for a ban on so-called
"cop-killer" bullets.  This latest plea came despite the fact
that not one police officer has ever been fatally shot through a
protective vest with a handgun bullet designed to defeat these
vests.  The result of such a law would be the virtual elimination
of most self-defense, hunting and center-fire target rounds used
in North America! Again, demonstrating his inclination to score
political points rather than address the real problem, the
President was silent on the facts that in the last 10 years, 73%
of those involved in officer killings had prior criminal arrests,
56% had been convicted of criminal offenses and 23% were on
parole or probation at the time of the killing.  Fraternal Order
of Police (FOP) President Gilbert Gallegos, whose group recently
pledged not to support additional gun control schemes, sang a
different song when asked about the Clinton bullet ban.  In
response to questioning, Gallegos exhorted, "Let's get this issue
resolved once and for all -- and to hell with special interests!"
(U.S. Newswire, 3/5/97).

         STOMPING ON THE FIRST TO INFRINGE ON THE SECOND

   In a press conference held on March 14, NRA joined a host of
diverse groups concerned over the recent rush to pass so-called
campaign finance reform legislation.  While this issue has been
bandied about for some time now, in the wake of one presidential
fundraising scandal after another, supporters of overhauling our
system of government have become more vocal.  NRA exists
primarily to defend and protect the U.S. Constitution, especially
the Second Amendment.  We also recognize the importance of, and
will continue to fight for, all of the rights set forth in the
Constitution, including the First Amendment. It is for these
reasons that we oppose the current legislation co-sponsored by
Sens. John McCain (R-Ariz.) and Russell Feingold (D-Wisc.) (S.
25).

   S. 25 would severely restrict our members' ability to
participate within the political process.  For example, our
ability to send NRA members NRA-PVF Political Preference Charts,
to inform them of candidates' stances on gun-related issues,
would be severely restricted, if not prohibited.  Moreover, S. 25
would abolish political action committees (PACs), including the
NRA Political Victory Fund (NRA-PVF).  Political contributions,
by individuals or PACs (like NRA-PVF), have been upheld by the
Supreme Court as political speech protected by the First
Amendment.  The average NRA member's contribution for our
political activities is $26.33.  And while many of our members
can't afford to contribute hundreds of dollars to pro-gun
candidates, they understand their contribution, coupled with
those of their fellow members, gives them a voice in the
political process, and goes a long way toward our foremost goal
of protecting the Second Amendment.  Please contact your U.S.
Senators at 202/224-3121 in opposition to S. 25.  Tell them
oppression never leads to freedom or fairness, and they shouldn't
restrict our First Amendment rights under the guise of "campaign
finance reform."

                    DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HEARINGS

   On March 5, the House Subcommittee on Crime held hearings on
the misguided Lautenberg Amendment which prohibits those
convicted of certain misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence from
possessing firearms.  Rep. Schumer wasted no time in attacking
the NRA, accusing us of creating a controversy to drive a wedge
between law enforcement groups and victims' rights organizations. 
This allegation was rebuffed by Rep. George Gekas (R-Pa.), who
pointed out how supportive NRA is, and has been, of law
enforcement.  Rep. Bob Barr (R-Ga.) accurately noted how these
hearings should have been held prior to Lautenberg being rammed
through Congress at the last minute.  Related bills have already
been filed in Congress including:  H.R. 26 [Barr (R-Ga.)] and S.
262 [Wellstone (D-Minn.)] that seek to enforce the law from the
date it was enacted forward and H.R. 1009 [(Chenoweth (R-Id.)]
that seeks to repeal Lautenberg.

                       MARK YOUR CALENDARS

   The 1997 NRA-ILA Grassroots/Clubs & Associations workshop is
scheduled for May 2, 1997, from 9:00 a.m. to Noon, at the
Sheraton Seattle Hotel & Towers, and admission is FREE!  This
year's workshop, entitled "Education and Empowerment," will give
you the chance to learn how we can work together to better
educate candidates, lawmakers and the general public on issues of
concern to us.

   Featured speakers will include:  NRA Executive Vice President
Wayne LaPierre, NRA-ILA Executive Director Tanya Metaksa, NRA
staff, and most important, your fellow NRA members.  This year's
workshop will specifically cover:  1) candidate education - how
you can effectively inform prospective lawmakers and legislators
about firearms-related issues, 2) how NRA Clubs & Associations
can help your club or state association become even more
effective, and 3) what you can do in your community to increase
NRA's presence in your local media. 

   We hope we can count on you to attend this year's workshop,
and encourage your family, friends, and fellow gun owners who
plan on being at the 1997 Annual Meetings to attend as well.  The
details of the workshop are contained on the enclosed
registration form.  Please complete and return this form to the
NRA-ILA Grassroots Division so we can reserve your seat at this
year's workshop.  Special Note:  In addition to this workshop,
Tanya Metaksa will be available to sign copies of her new book,
Safe, Not Sorry, during the Meetings.  If you have any questions,
please call the Grassroots Division at 1-800-392-8683.  

                     GUN CRUNCHERS RESURFACE

   The U.S. Army Center for Military History reported a directive
from Army Material Command to inventory all arms on hand in
preparation for sending 90% of them to be destroyed at Anniston
Arsenal.  Curators at the Center had set aside several thousand
historically significant arms (M1 Garands, M1 carbines, Krag
rifles and carbines, BARs, Thompsons, and others) for future use
by military museums in their system.  In looking at 5,000
Garands, the team was directed to come up with 500 to keep.  They
were also going through the Center's artifact collections and
looking at other items that could be scrapped or re-issued. The
destruction of these guns runs contrary to a specific Department
of Defense appropriations measure specifically prohibiting this
type of activity.  

   Recently, however, NRA has learned that, thanks to the work of
NRA members, Sen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska), museum curators,
members of gun collectors guilds and clubs, American Legion
members, and those at the Center for Military History, the
destruction of these guns is on temporary hold pending a review
of the procedures.  We'll monitor this situation and report any
related developments. 

                       A LOOK AT THE STATES

   Thanks to the efforts of NRA members and gun owners, pro-gun
bills continue to move through the states.  Here's a brief
summary of these bills.  For the latest news on these and other
firearms-related bills, please call NRA-ILA at 1-800-392-8683.

New Mexico: The Legislature adjourned for the session on
Saturday, March 22.  Before adjournment, the Legislature
overwhelmingly passed HJM 30, a resolution urging New Mexico
schools to adopt NRA's Eddie Eagle gun safety program.  Thanks to
the efforts of NRA-ILA and state activists, SB 676, NRA-backed
right to carry legislation, advanced further than ever before! 
Although time ran out before the full House could consider SB
676, it did pass the Senate and was reported favorably out of the
House Business & Industry Committee.  We'll be back again in the
future to push even harder for passage of this important
legislation.

North Carolina:  This month, Governor Jim Hunt (D) officially
recognized the award winning Eddie Eagle gun safety program by
signing a Proclamation establishing the week of April 6-12 "Eddie
Eagle Gun Safety Week." 

Washington: HB 2078 and HB 2273 would require mandatory storage
of personally-owned firearms kept in the home.  Not only is this
legislation counterproductive, but it is also unnecessary. 
Washington already provides penalties for reckless endangerment,
under which adults who are found grossly negligent in the storage
of a firearm or any other harmful material can be prosecuted. 
Amazingly, two firearms organizations, the Citizens Committee for
the Right to Keep and Bear Arms and the American Shooting Sports
Council, have joined anti-gunners in believing that another law
on the books is the answer to reducing fatal firearms accidents
(which are now at an all time low).  Education must play the key
role, and NRA takes firearm safety very seriously.  To date 13
other state legislatures along with six Governors agree with us
and have adopted NRA's award-winning Eddie Eagle Gun Safety
Program. Please contact your State Representatives and urge them
to oppose HB 2078 and HB 2273.  For the fact sheet, "Firearms
Safety in the United States," contact NRA-ILA's Grassroots
Division or visit the NRA-ILA web site at http://www.nra.org.  

West Virginia: Contrary to false and misleading reports, NRA did
not support SB 98, legislation that called for damaging changes
to the state's current right to carry system, in the form it
passed the State Senate in March.  By working with the leadership
in the House, we were able to amend SB 98 so that the training
requirements for permit applicants will remain as they are today. 
We are currently working to address other shortcomings with this
legislation to ensure that the rights of permit applicants and
permit holders are protected. 

                      FORK OVER THOSE FORMS

   HCI is suing BATF to require the disclosure of information
from multiple-handgun purchase forms (Center to Prevent Handgun
Violence [CPHV] v. U.S. Department of Treasury).  CPHV (the
"educational" arm of HCI) claims that, under the Freedom of
Information Act (FOIA), BATF is required to release the names of
the licensees who report multiple sales along with the serial
numbers of the handguns sold.  The Treasury Department and BATF
are arguing that the identities are being properly withheld under
the exemption in the FOIA concerning privileged commercial
information.

                      BLM REGULATIONS PULLED

   Last November, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issued a
proposed rulemaking to consolidate its existing law enforcement
regulations in a re-write they claimed would help the public
understand what activities are prohibited on the nation's public
lands.  Instead, the proposed rule led to confusion over what the
current regulations prohibit, which regulations are being
changed, and how those changes would have affected public land
users.  Concerns over the flawed nature of this rulemaking,
especially with respect to the use of firearms for hunting and
sport shooting, led the NRA to strongly recommend that the
proposal be withdrawn from further consideration, and our
concerns were heeded.  On March 11, Interior Secretary Bruce
Babbitt issued a press release stating he directed the BLM to
halt further actions on this proposal.  Babbitt's decision
"coincidentally" came as pro-sportsmen Rep. James Hansen (R-Ut.)
had scheduled hearings on this very subject for the following
week in the House National Parks, Forest and Lands Subcmte. 

                      HE REALLY WALLOPED 'EM

   On March 8, speaking at this year's Conservative Political
Action Conference (CPAC), which NRA co-sponsored, former U.S.
Sen. Malcolm Wallop (R-Wy.) noted:  "The ruling class doesn't
care about public safety.  Having made it very difficult for
States and localities to police themselves, having left ordinary
citizens with no choice but to protect themselves as best they
can, they now try to take our guns away.  In fact they blame us
and our guns for crime.  This is so wrong that it cannot be an
honest mistake."  We agree.

  NEXT MONTH'S NRA GRASSFIRE TO APPEAR IN THE AMERICAN GUARDIAN

   Attention Grassfire recipients!  Remember, as reported in the
March issue of NRA Grassfire, beginning next month, Grassfire
will appear as a regular feature in the NRA's new monthly
magazine, the American Guardian.  Those of you who wish to
continue receiving NRA Grassfire, have three options:  1)  switch
your current NRA magazine to the American Guardian, 2)  pick up
the Guardian as a second magazine service (for $15.00/year), or
3)  continue to download NRA Grassfire from NRA's homepage
(http://www.nra.org).  Those Volunteers who wish to change their
current subscription or want to add the Guardian as a second
service should contact the NRA Membership Division toll free at
1-800-672-3888.  We hope to see you next month in the inaugural
issue of the American Guardian!

Permission to reprint all or portions of this publication
granted, duly noting "NRA Grassfire, April, 1997."  1997, NRA
Grassfire, NRA Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax,
Virginia  22030.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.933FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 27 1997 11:1040
April 21, 1997

Today, April 21, Governor Bill Graves announced his veto of HB
2159, the NRA-backed Right to Carry bill.   

In a written message to the House of Representatives the Governor
stated that,

     "I understand the importance of Kansans being able to feel
     safe and secure.  Some people have suggested that they would
     like to carry a concealed handgun for their own personal
     protection, but for many Kansans, knowing hidden guns are on
     our streets does not contribute to their sense of security. 
     In addition, more guns mean more injuries and deaths from
     accidental shootings.

     "Lost in the current debate on concealed handguns are
     Kansas' current gun laws, which I've repeatedly stated I
     support.  Subject to local ordinances, current state law
     permits a person to carry a firearm openly in public and
     openly in a motor vehicle.  In addition, state law permits a
     person to carry a concealed weapon on one's person while on
     their own land, in their own residence, or in their fixed
     place of business.  State law also specifically allows
     licensed hunters and fishermen to carry a concealed weapon
     while they are hunting and fishing.

     "As a supporter of local control, I believe local
     authorities must be allowed to craft gun ordinances tailored
     to their communities.  The provisions of House Bill 2159
     prevent communities from prohibiting the carrying of
     concealed weapons, and are in direct conflict with Kansas'
     long history of local control."

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.934FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 27 1997 11:1164
April 22, 1997

Louisiana update:

Today, April 22, S. 694, NRA-backed range protection legislation
was reported out of the Senate Committee on Environmental Quality
on unanimous consent and is now headed to the Senate floor for
consideration.  Gun owners and sportsmen are encouraged to
contact their State Senators at (504) 342-2040 and urge them to
support S 694.

E-MAIL ADDRESSES

Senator
-------

Robert J. Barham:                  barhamr@legis.state.la.us 

Ronald C. "Ron" Bean:              beanr@legis.state.la.us 

Michael F. "Mike" Branch:          branchm@legis.state.la.us 

James David Cain:                  cainj@legis.state.la.us 

"Tommy" Casanova, III, M.D.:       casanovt@legis.state.la.us 

Lynn B. Dean:                      deanl@legis.state.la.us 

Noble E. Ellington:                ellingtn@legis.state.la.us 

Randy L. Ewing, President:         ewingr@legis.state.la.us 

Thomas A. "Tom" Greene:            greene@legis.state.la.us 

John M. Guidry:                    guidryj@legis.state.la.us 

John J. Hainkel, Jr.:              hainkelj@legis.state.la.us 

Donald E. Hines, M.D.:             hinesd@legis.state.la.us 

Jesse K. "Ken" Hollis, Jr.:        hollisk@legis.state.la.us 

Paulette R. Irons:                 ironsp@legis.state.la.us 

Ron J. Landry:                     landryr@legis.state.la.us 

Arthur J. "Art" Lentini:           lentini@legis.state.la.us 

Max T. Malone:                     malonem@legis.state.la.us 

Craig F. Romero:                   romeroc@legis.state.la.us 

John T. "Tom" Schedler:            schedlet@legis.state.la.us 

Kenneth M. "Mike" Smith:           smithmi@legis.state.la.us 

Gerald J. Theunissen:              theunisg@legis.state.la.us 

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.935FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 27 1997 11:11123
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly
 
             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No.  16                                    April 22, 1997

Oklahoma Eliminates Parole In Passing Major Crime Bill

     Spurred on by citizen outrage over a triple homicide by a
prison inmate who killed his girlfriend and her parents five days
after being released early from an Oklahoma prison last summer,
Oklahoma legislators last week enacted a sweeping criminal
justice reform bill that eliminates parole for violent offenders.

     Gov. Frank Keating, who had been very vocal in urging
enactment of  reform measures, signed the 599-page HB1213 into
law today.  Associated Press called passage of the bill "the
miracle of the 1997 Oklahoma legislature."

     Highlighted by Truth In Sentencing provisions that will
require criminals convicted of violent crimes to serve 85% of
their sentences, the bill also requires nonviolent offenders to
serve 75% of their sentences.  Swept away in the measure were
early release credits and, ultimately, the workload for the state
Pardon and Parole Board.

     The legislature also authorized $430 million in corrections
spending over the next decade, including the construction of 600
more prison beds and authority to lease up to 1,500 private
prison beds.  A community corrections program and other criminal
justice reforms were also included. 

     "This is the best possible move in the direction of being
nasty to criminals that I've seen while I've been in office,"
Gov. Keating declared when the legislation was introduced in
February.  

     The federal government spurred support for Truth In
Sentencing (TIS) when it adopted it in 1984.  Congress further
"encouraged" states to adopt it by requiring TIS for certain
grants under the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of
1994.  Many states  preceded Oklahoma in enacting similar laws
that generally require persons convicted of violent crimes to
serve at least 85% of their sentences.

Sen. Gunn Receives Defender Of Justice Award In Mississipp

     Mississippi state Sen. Mike Gunn, sponsor of Mississippi's
recently enacted Crime Victims' Protection Act, received NRA
CrimeStrike's 10th Defender of Justice Award from Gov. Kirk
Fordice and Tanya Metaksa, NRA's chief lobbyist, in ceremonies in
Jackson April 18.  

     As the first person to earn the award back in 1995, Gov.
Fordice said it "meant more than any other award he had received
as governor."  It was an honor to Mississippi that a "legislative
leader who was his partner in shaping Mississippi's tough
criminal justice system would be recognized with this prestigious
award," he said of Sen. Gunn.

     In addition to the Crime Victims' Protection Act, which Gov.
Fordice signed during the ceremony, Sen. Gunn was responsible for
passage of a state law abolishing parole for violent felons.  He
supported the state's landmark Prevention of Crime and Rights of
Victims Act in 1994 that enacted Truth In Sentencing, authorized
prison expansion, and gave crime victims greater rights in the
criminal justice process.  

     NRA's Metaksa hailed Sen. Gunn as both a crime fighter and
freedom fighter.  "Mike Gunn knows the problem of providing
public safety lies with dealing with the criminals, and not
punishing law-abiding Mississippi citizens," she said.

D.C. Mayor Offers Death Penalty Bill

     After years of opposing the death penalty, Washington, D.C.
Mayor Marion Barry shocked many by introducing a law to impose
capital punishment on those who murder city police officers in
the nation's capital.

     Barry's move follows the Feb. 5 murder of D.C. Officer Brian
T. Gibson.  Subsequently, another city officer was murdered in
neighboring Prince George's County, Md.  Maryland is one of 38
states with the death penalty.  Arrests have been made in both
cases.
     
New Prisons Help Cut Crime, North Carolina AG Reports

     An improving economy and an $87.5 million prison
construction program are factors in driving down North Carolina's
violent crime rate in 1996, Atty. Gen. Mike Easley told a Raleigh
press conference last week.

     North Carolina is adding more than 4,000 new prison beds and
has sent 1,000 inmates to out-of-state prisons under a program
adopted in 1993.  It is part of  an effort to reverse crime rates
that soared after the state began releasing violent offenders on
early parole in response to federal court suits over prison
overcrowding in the 1980s.

     "We know about 10% of offenders commit about 90% of crimes,"
Easley said.  "That's especially true of violent crimes," he told
Associated Press.

     The state ranked 20th in violent crime and 13th in homicide
among the states in 1995, according to FBI data.  But the state's 
homicide rate dropped 9% and its violent crime rate fell 7% in
1996, State Bureau of Investigation data reveals.

                 A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
      Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.936FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 27 1997 11:1169
                          April 23, 1997

                Statement by Mrs. Tanya K. Metaksa
                        Executive Director
                 of the National Rifle Association
                 Institute for Legislative Action

          At a Press Conference With Congressman Bob Barr
            and the Law enforcement Alliance of America
     
Today the NRA has been vindicated on the phantom issue of
"cop-killer bullets."  For years now, we've said that this
legislation was not needed and the draft BATF study concurs.  

Unfortunately, in the name of politics there has been a violation
of the public trust.  For years, members of Congress, most notably
Congressman Schumer, have called for a ban on so-called "cop
killer bullets."  This past election cycle President Clinton
campaigned on this issue.  Obviously, they didn't care what the
facts were, rather just what sounded good on the evening news.  

What President Clinton and Congressman Schumer didn't realize is
that, while they enjoyed bashing the NRA, they were, at the same
time, putting in jeopardy the very law enforcement officer's lives
that they claimed to want to protect.  They led officers to
believe that commonly used handgun ammunition can, as the
President has said repeatedly, "cut through a vest like a hot
knife through butter," and, in doing so, they may have discouraged
some officers from wearing their life saving soft body armor.

The fact is, contrary to the President's claims, law enforcement
is adequately protected by the current generation of soft body
armor.

Tragically, the draft BATF report shows that 68% of officers
killed in the line of duty were not wearing their protective body
armor.  It is clear from reading the report, that to meddle with
current laws is to experiment with the lives of law enforcement,
and the single biggest way to save law enforcement lives is to
encourage law enforcement to wear their life saving vests.  
     
For many years now, the NRA has had a program that allows law
enforcement officers who are NRA members to get a 25% discount on
soft body armor.  We believe very strongly that every officer that
wants to wear a vest, should have one.  In many big city police
departments the resources are there, but, for many small and rural
police departments, resources are scarce.  The NRA has long been a
friend of the patrol officer; many thousands are NRA members.  

The NRA is fully supportive of Congressman Barr's life saving
legislation [to give a tax credit to law enforcement officers who
must purchase their own soft body armor] and will put the full
resources of our 2.8 million members behind it.
     
There is another significance to the draft BATF findings, one that
can not be overlooked.  It is that BATF looked at the facts of
this issue with scientific integrity.  Most, if not all, of the
issues regarding firearms in America can be resolved with
non-politicized, scientific examination.  The NRA stands proud,
today, that we have been proven right, and we feel confident that
all of our positions on this very important issue can stand up to
the rigors of science.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.937FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 27 1997 11:1124
APRIL 24, 1997

UPDATED ALERT TO OREGON GUN OWNERS!

In Oregon, two NRA-opposed bills have been referred to the State
Senate Crime and Corrections Committee.  The first bill SB 673,
expands the instant check system to all firearm purchases.  The
state police currently register handgun purchases and would do
the same for rifles and shotguns under SB 673.  The second bill,
SB 700, bans private firearm transfers between non-licensed
individuals at gun shows.  
     
State Senator, Neil Bryant(SD27) has shown an interest in
hearings being held on SB 673 and SB 700.  Please call Senator
Bryant at (503) 986-1727 and request his assistance in ensuring
that these bills are not heard.  You can also reach him by fax at
(503) 986-1976 or by e-mail at bryant.sen@state.or.us 

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.938FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 27 1997 11:12229
April 23, 1997

OREGON

Please Call House Judiciary Chairman John Minnis and ask him not
to hear HB 2405, Mandatory Firearms Storage Legislation, or any
revised form of the bill.

The number for Chairman Minnis is (503)986-1420; he can also be
reached by fax at (503)986-1130.

COLORADO

The right to carry reform bill, SB 96, has been reported
favorably out of the House Appropriations committee and now moves
to the House floor for consideration.  Action by the full House
is expected this week.  Please call your State Representatives at
(303) 866-2904 and urge them to support final passage of SB 96.

KANSAS

On Tuesday, April 21, Governor Bill Graves announced his veto of
HB 2159, the NRA-backed Right to Carry bill.   

ACTION TO TAKE: Gun owners and sportsmen please call your State
Senator and State Representative TODAY at 1-800-432-3924 and urge
them to override Governor Graves' veto of your right to carry
bill (HB 2159).  Also, if you would like to contact Governor
Graves' to express your disappointment regarding his decision to
veto HB 2159, you can do so by calling 1-800-748-4408 or by 
e-mail at governor@ink.org.  Please remember to be courteous when
expressing your views.

     * Members of the House and Senate will return to Topeka on
     April 30, 1997 for the veto session.

     * Kansas remains one of only seven (7) states that prohibits
     the carrying of concealed firearms for personal protection.
     
     * Your right to carry bill was supported by the Fraternal
     Order of Police in Kansas, Law Enforcement Alliance of
     America and hundreds of rank and file police officers, as
     well as many Kansas Sheriffs.

Below is a list of how your lawmakers voted on Right to Carry. 
If they voted for your right to self-defense, please thank them
for their vote, but if they did not, please encourage them to
change their position and support right to carry during the veto
session.

  SENATE
  ------
Ed Pugh, 001, Wamego, Y
Sandy Praeger, 002, Lawrence, N
Donald Biggs, 003, Leavenworth, N
Sherman Jones, 004, Kansas City, N
Mark Gilstrap, 005, Kansas City, Y
Steineger Chris, 006, Kansas City, Y
Audrey Langworthy, 007, Prairie Village, N
Dick Bond, 008, Overland Park, N
Rich Becker, 009, Lenexa, N
Nick Jordan, 010, Shawnee, Y
Keith Schraad, 011, Overland Park, Y
Robert Tyson, 012, Parker, Y
Jim Barone, 013, Frontenac, Y
Dwayne Umbarger, 014, Thayer, Y
Tim Emert, 015, Independence, N
David Corbin, 016, Towanda, N
Jerry Karr, 017, Emporia, N
Petty Marge, 018, Topeka, N
Anthony Hensley, 019, Topeka, Y
Alicia Salisbury, 020, Topeka, N
Janice Hardenburger, 021, Haddam, Y
Lana Oleen, 022, Manhattan, N
Karin Brownlee, 023, Olathe, Y
Ben Vidricksen, 024, Salina, Y
Pat Ranson, 025, Wichita, Y
Nancey Harrington, 026, Clearwater, Y
Les Donovan, 027, Wichita, Y
Paul Feliciano, 028, Wichita, Y
Rip Gooch, 029, Wichita, N
Barbara Lawrence, 030, Wichita, Y
Christine Downey, 031, Inman, N
Greta Goodwin, 032, Winfield, N
Laurie Bleeker, 033, Great Bend, Y
Dave Kerr, 034, Hutchinson, N
Don Steffes, 035, McPherson, N
Janis Lee, 036, Kensington, Y
Larry Salmans, 037, Hanston, Y
Tim Huelskamp, 038, Fowler, Y
Stephen Morris, 039, Hugoton, Y
Stan Clark, 040, Oakley, Y

  HOUSE
  -----
Tim Shallenburger, 001, Baxter Springs, Y
Bob Grant, 002, Cherokee, Y
Ed McKechnie, 003, Pittsburg, Y
Andrew Howell, 004, Ft. Scott, Y
Bill Feurborn, 005, Garnett, Y
Jene Vickrey, 006, Louisburg, Y
Vernon Correll, 007, Oswego, N
Richard Reinhardt, 008, Erie, N
Stanley Dreher, 009, Iola, N
Ralph Tanner, 010, Baldwin, Y
Jim Garner, 011, Coffeyville, Y
Cindy Empson, 012, Independence, Y
Mary Compton, 013, Fredonia, Y
Kay O'Connor, 014, Olathe, Y
John Toplikar, 015, Olathe, Y
Tim Carmody, 016, Overland Park, Y
Lisa Benlon, 017, Shawnee, N
Phill Kline, 018, Shawnee, Y
Phil Kline, 019, Overland Park, N
Gerry Ray, 020, Overland Park, N
Barbara Allen, 021, Prairie Village, N
Sue Storm, 022, Overland Park, N
Cliff Franklin, 023, Merriam, Y
Bob Tomlinson, 024, Roeland Park, N
Al Lane, 025, Mission Hills, N
Larry Campbell, 026, Olathe, Y
Phyllis Gilmore, 027, Olathe, Y
David Adkins, 028, Leawood, N
Dennis Wilson, 029, Overland Park, Y
David Huff, 030, Overland Park, N
Bonnie Sharp, 031, Kansas City, Y
Herman Dillon, 032, Kansas City, N
Tom Burroughs, 033, Kansas City, Y
David Haley, 034, Kansas City, N
Broderick Henderson, 035, Kansas City, N
Doug Spangler, 036, Kansas City, Y
Bill Reardon, 037, Kansas City, N
Jim Long, 038, Kansas City, Y
Ray Cox, 039, Bonner Springs, Y
Candy Ruff, 040, Leavenworth, Y
Marti Crow, 041, Leavenworth, N
Kenny Wilk, 042, Lansing, Y
John Ballou, 043, Gardner, Y
Barbara Ballard, 044, Lawrence, N
Tom Sloan, 045, Lawrence, Y
Troy Findley, 046, Lawrence, N
JoAnn Flower, 047, Oskaloosa, Y
Jerry Henry, 048, Cummings, N
Galen Weiland, 049, Bendena, Y
Becky Hutchins, 050, Holton, Y
Greg Packer, 051, Topeka, Y
Tom Bradley, 052, Topeka, Y
Dixie Toelkes, 053, Topeka, N
Doug Mays, 054, Topeka, Y
Annie Kuether, 055, Topeka, N
Nancy Kirk, 056, Topeka, N
Vaughn Flora, 057, Topeka, N
Rocky Nichols, 058, Topeka, Y
Joe Humerickhouse, 059, Osage City, Y
Lloyd Stone, 060, Emporia, N
Edward Pugh, 061, Wamego, Y
Kent Glasscock, 062, Manhattan, Y
Bruce Larkin, 063, Baileyville, N
Steve Lloyd, 064, Clay Center, Y
Gerald Geringer, 065, Junction City, Y
Jeff Peterson, 066, Manhattan, N
Joe Kejr, 067, Brookville, Y
Shari Weber, 068, Herington, Y
Deena Horst, 069, Salina, Y
Don Dahl, 070, Hillsboro, Y
Carol Beggs, 071, Salina, Y
Garry Boston, 072, Newton, N
Clark Shultz, 073, Lindsborg, N
Ellen Samuelson, 074, Newton, N
William Mason, 075, El Dorado, Y
Peggy Long, 076, Hamilton, Y
Peggy Palmer, 077, Augusta, Y
Judy Showalter, 078, Winfield, N
Joe Shriver, 079, Arkansas City, N
Bill McCreary, 080, Wellington, Y
Ted Powers, 081, Mulvane, Y
Don Myers, 082, Derby, Y
Jo Ann Pottorff, 083, Wichita, N
Jonathan Wells, 084, Wichita, N
Tony Powell, 085, Wichita, Y
Henry Helgerson, 086, Wichita, N
Mike Farmer, 087, Wichita, Y
Gwen Welshimer, 088, Wichita, Y
Ruby Gilbert, 089, Wichita, N
Billie Vining, 090, Wichita, Y
Brenda Landwehr, 091, Wichita, Y
Douglas Johnston, 092, Wichita, Y
Daniel Thimesch, 093, Cheney, Y
Les Donovan, 094, Wichita, Y
Tom Sawyer, 095, Wichita, Y
George Dean, 096, Wichita, N/V
Dale Swenson, 097, Wichita, Y
Geraldine Flaherty, 098, Wichita, N
Susan Wagle, 099, Wichita, Y
Carlos Mayans, 100, Wichita, Y
Robert Krehbiel, 101, Pretty Prairie, N
Janice Pauls, 102, Hutchinson, Y
Thomas Klein, 103, Wichita, N
Michael O'Neal, 104, Hutchinson, N/V
Richard Alldritt, 105, Harper, N
Sharon Schwartz, 106, Washington, Y
Joann Freeborn, 107, Concordia, Y
Dennis McKinney, 108, Greensburg, Y
Clay Aurand, 109, Courtland, Y
Dan Johnson, 110, Hays, Y
Eber Phelps, 111, Hays, N
John Edmonds, 112, Great Bend, Y
Jack Wempe, 113, Little River, N
Melvin Minor, 114, Stafford, Y
Melvin Neufeld, 115, Ingalls, Y
Ethel Peterson, 116, Dodge City, N
Robin Jennison, 117, Healy, Y
Gayle Mollenkamp, 118, Russell Springs, Y
Laura McClure, 119, Osborne, Y
John Faber, 120, Brewster, Y
Jim Morrison, 121, Colby, Y
Gary Hayzlett, 122, Lakin, Y
Terry Presta, 123, Garden City, N
Eugene Shore, 124, Johnson, Y
Carl Holmes, 125, Liberal, Y

N/V=did not vote

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.939FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 27 1997 11:12871
April 24, 1997

PENNSYLVANIA

                    GOVERNOR SIGNS HB 149!!!
              VICTORY FOR PENNSYLVANIA GUN OWNERS
                                
On Tuesday, April 22 Governor Ridge signed into law HB 149.  
NRA-ILA successfully worked with the state's sportsmen's groups,
Governor Ridge and Senate and House leadership to pass HB 149,
which NRA-ILA amended in the Senate to provide for 18 separate
improvements to Act 17 and other parts of Pennsylvania firearms
law.  Among other changes, the amendments provide for:

       * Open hearings in "relief from disability" proceedings;

       * Law enforcement liability for damage to confiscated
       firearms later returned to their owners;

       * A six-month grace period for persons whose carry permits
       have expired and who are not otherwise prohibited from
       obtaining permits;

       * Technical changes to enhance the ability of the Attorney
       General to enter into right-to-carry reciprocity agreements
       with other states;

       * A civil penalty for each failure to destroy background
       check information;

       * A felony penalty for improperly requesting a background
       check or disseminating confidential information received in
       the course of a background check;

       * Civil penalties for violation of the confidentiality of
       information submitted for purposes of a carry permit
       application, as well as payment of attorney's fees for the
       person whose confidentiality is violated;

       * A requirement that the State Police notify licensees of
       reasons for the instant check system's unavailability;

       * A clarification that a "physician," for purposes of
       rendering an opinion as to a person's mental health, must be
       a licensed psychiatrist or clinical psychologist.  Without
       that definition, podiatrists or proctologists could issue
       such opinions;

       * A clarification that a Pennsylvania resident may lawfully
       buy a firearm from an out-of-state dealer as long as he
       could lawfully purchase a firearm within Pennsylvania.  This
       fixes the problem perceived by BATF that Act 17 would bar
       out-of-state long gun purchases by Pennsylvanians even
       though such purchases would be otherwise legal under federal
       law;

       * An expansion of dealers' protection from civil suits for
       selling firearms to prohibited persons, if the background
       check did not disclose any information about such a person's
       disability;

       * Finally, the amendments delay the implementation of
       instant checks on long guns.

The Pennsylvania Senate voted as follows:

45 YEAS     5   NAYS

Those Senators voting yea for HB 149 without amendments:

Roy Afflerbach 
Gibson E. Armstrong 
Albert V. Belan 
Clarence D. Bell 
Leonard J. Bodack 
David J. Brightbill 
Doyle J. Corman 
Jay Costa, Jr 
Daniel Scott Delp 
Jane M. Earll 
Vincent J. Fumo 
James W. Gerlach 
Stewart J. Greenleaf 
Melissa A. Hart 
David W. Heckler
Edward W. Helfrick 
Edwin G. Holl 
Robert C. Jubelirer 
Richard Kasunic 
Allen G. Kukovich 
Gerald J. LaValle 
Charles D. Lemmond, Jr. 
Joseph F. Loeper 
Roger A. Madigan 
Robert J. Mellow 
Harold F. Mowery, Jr. 
Timothy F. Murphy 
Raphael J. Musto 
Michael A. O'Pake 
Jeffrey E Piccola 
Terry L. Punt 
James J. Rhoades
Robert D. Robbins 
Frank A. Salvatore 
William L. Slocum 
Patrick J. Stapleton 
Barry J. Stout 
Robert J. Thompson 
Richard A. Tilghman 
Robert M. Tomlinson 
Joseph M. Uliana 
Jack Wagner 
Noah W. Wenger 
Mary Jo White 
John N. Wozniak 

Those Senators voting nay on HB 149 without amendments:

Vincent Hughes 
Shirley M. Kitchen 
Allyson Y. Schwartz 
Christine M. Tartaglione 
Hardy Williams 

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives voted as follows to
concur with Senate Amendments:

147 YEAS, 48 NAYS, 7 EXC, 1 Not Voting

Y   Adolph
Y   Allen
Y   Argall
Y   Armstrong
Y   Baker
N   Bard
Y   Barley
Y   Barrar
Y   Benninghoff
Y   Birmelin
Y   Boyes
Y   Brown, T.
Y   Browne, P.
Y   Bunt
Y   Carone
Y   Chadwick
Y   Civera
Y   Clark
Y   Clymer
N   Cohen, L.
Y   Conti
Y   Cornell
Y   Dally
E   Dempsey
Y   Dent
Y   Digirolamo
Y   Druce
Y   Egolf
Y   Fairchild
Y   Fargo
Y   Feese
Y   Fichter
Y   Fleagle
Y   Flick
Y   Gannon
Y   Geist
Y   Gladeck
Y   Godshall
Y   Gruppo
Y   Habay
Y   Harhart
Y   Hasay
Y   Hennessey
Y   Herman
Y   Hershey
Y   Hess
Y   Hutchinson
Y   Jadlowiec
N   Kenney
Y   Krebs
N   Lawless
Y   Leh
Y   Lynch
Y   Maitland
Y   Major
Y   Marsico
Y   Masland
Y   McGill
Y   McIlhattan
Y   McNaughton
Y   Micozzie
Y   Miller
Y   Nailor
Y   Nickol
Y   O'Brien
N   Orie
N   Perzel
E   Pettit
Y   Phillips
Y   Pippy
Y   Platts
Y   Raymond
Y   Reber
Y   Reinard
Y   Rohrer
Y   Ross
N   Rubley
Y   Sather
Y   Saylor
Y   Schroder
Y   Schuler
Y   Semmel
Y   Serafini
Y   Seyfert
Y   Smith, B.
Y   Smith, S.
Y   Snyder
Y   Stairs
N   Steil
Y   Stern
Y   Stevenson
Y   Strittmatter
Y   Taylor, E.Z.
N   Taylor, J.
Y   True
Y   Tulli
Y   Vance
Y   Waugh
Y   Wilt
N   Wogan
Y   Wright
Y   Zimmerman
Y   Zug
Y   Battisto
N   Bebko-Jones
Y   Belardi
Y   Belfanti
N   Bishop
Y   Blaum
Y   Boscola
N   Butkovitz
N   Buxton
E   Caltagirone
N   Cappabianca
N   Carn
Y   Casorio
Y   Cawley
N   Cohen, M.
Y   Colafella
Y   Colaizzo
N   Corpora
E   Corrigan
Y   Cowell
Y   Coy
N   Curry
Y   Daley
Y   Deluca
Y   Dermody
Y   DeWeese
Y   Donatucci
Y   Eachus
N   Evans
Y   George
Y   Gigliotti
Y   Gordner
Y   Gruitza
Y   Haluska
Y   Hanna
X   Horsey
N   Itkin
N   James
Y   Jarolin
N   Josephs
N   Kaiser
N   Keller
N   Kirkland
Y   LaGrotta
E   Laughlin
N   Lederer
Y   Lescovitz
N   Levdansky
Y   Lloyd
Y   Lucyk
N   Manderino
Y   Markosek
Y   Mayernik
Y   McCall
N   McGeehan
N   Melio
N   Michlovic
N   Mihalich
Y   Mundy
N   Myers
Y   Olasz
Y   Oliver
Y   Pesci
Y   Petrarca
Y   Petrone
Y   Pistella
N   Preston
N   Ramos
Y   Readshaw
N   Rieger
E   Roberts
N   Robinson
N   Roebuck
E   Rooney
Y   Sainato
Y   Santoni
Y   Scrimenti
Y   Shaner
Y   Staback
Y   Steelman
N   Stetler
Y   Sturla
Y   Surra
Y   Tangretti
N   Thomas
Y   Tigue
Y   Travaglio
Y   Trello
N   Trich
N   Van Horne
N   Veon
Y   Vitali
Y   Walko
N   Washington
N   Williams, A.
N   Williams, C.
Y   Wojnaroski
Y   Yewcic
N   Youngblood
Y   Ryan

Special thanks need to go out to Governor Tom Ridge (717)787-2500
and the following Legislators for their efforts in securing
passage of our amendments to HB 149 :

Senator Bob Robbins             (717)787-1322
Senator Vincent Fumo       (717)787-5662
Senator David Heckler      (717)787-7305
Senate President Pro Tempore
Robert Jubelirer           (717)787-5490

Representative Merle Phillips   (717)787-3485
Representative Bob Allen        (717)783-5293
Representative Tom Gannon  (717)783-6430
Representative Bill DeWeese     (717)783-3797
Representative Keith McCall     (717)783-1375
Speaker of the House
Matthew Ryan                    (717)787-4610

Please call and thank these individuals, and others who voted
favorably, for their continued help in making the criminal the
focus of Pennsylvania's laws and not the law abiding gun owner!    
(AMENDMENTS ARE IN ALL CAPS)

Amend Title, page 1, line 2, by inserting after "for"
firearms and for Amend Sec. 1, page 1, lines 6 and 7 by striking
out all of said lines and inserting

 Section 1.  Sections 6105(f), 6106(a) and (b), 6109(a), 611,
6111.1(b)(2) and (k), 6112 and 6122 of Title 18 of the
Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes are amended to read:
  6105. Persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell
or transfer firearms.
* * *

(f)   Other exemptions and proceedings.---
      (1)  Upon application to the court of common pleas under
this subsection by an applicant subject to the prohibitions
under subsection (c)(4), the court may grant such relief  as
it deems appropriate if the court determines that the
applicant may possess a firearm without risk to the applicant
or any other person.
  (2)  If application is made under this subsection for
relief from the disability imposed under subsection (c)(6),
notice of such application shall be given to the person who
had petitioned for the protection from abuse order and such
person shall be a party to the proceedings. Notice of any
court order or amendment to a court order restoring firearms
possession or control shall be given to the person who had
petitioned for the protection from abuse order.
  (3)  All hearings conducted under this subsection shall
be closed UNLESS OTHERWISE REQUESTED TO BE OPEN BY THE
APPLICANT .
  (4)  THE OWNER OF ANY SEIZED OR CONFISCATED FIREARMS
SHALL BE PROVIDED WITH A SIGNED AND DATED WRITTEN RECEIPT BY
THE APPROPRIATE LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY. THIS RECEIPT SHALL
INCLUDE, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, A DETAILED IDENTIFYING
DESCRIPTION INDICATING THE SERIAL NUMBER AND CONDITION OF THE
FIREARM. IN ADDITION, THE APPROPRIATE LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY
SHALL BE LIABLE TO THE LAWFUL OWNER OF SAID CONFISCATED OR
SEIZED FIREARM FOR ANY LOSS, DAMAGE OR SUBSTANTIAL DECREASE
IN VALUE OF SAID FIREARM THAT IS A DIRECT RESULT OF A LACK OF
REASONABLE CARE BY THE APPROPRIATE LAW ENFORCEMENT.
* * *

  6106. Firearms not to be carried without a license.
(a)  Offense defined.--[Any]
  (1) EXCEPT AS PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH (2), ANY person who
carries a firearm in any vehicle or any person who carries a
firearm concealed on or about his person, except in his place
of abode or fixed place of business, without a valid and
lawfully issued license under this chapter commits a felony
of the third degree.
(2) A PERSON, WHO IS OTHERWISE ELIGIBLE TO POSSESS VALID
LICENSE UNDER THIS CHAPTER, BUT CARRIES A FIREARM IN ANY
VEHICLE OR ANY PERSON WHO CARRIES A FIREARM CONCEALED ON OR
ABOUT HIS PERSON, EXCEPT IN HIS PLACE OF ABODE OR FIXED PLACE
OF BUSINESS WITHOUT A VALID AND LAWFULLY ISSUED LICENSE AND
HAS NOT COMMITTED ANY OTHER CRIMINAL VIOLATION, COMMITS A
MISDEMEANOR OF THE FIRST DEGREE.
  (b)  Exceptions.--The provisions of subsection(a) shall not
apply to:
  (1)  Constables, sheriffs, prison or jail wardens, or
their deputies, Policemen of this Commonwealth or its
political subdivisions, or other law-enforcement officers.
  (2)  Members of the army, navy or marine corps of the
United States or of the National Guard or organized reserves
when on duty.
  (3)  The regularly enrolled members of any organization
duly organized to purchase or receive such weapons from the
United States or from this Commonwealth.
  (4) Any persons engaged in target shooting with rifle,
pistol, or revolver, if such persons are at or are going to
or from their places of assembly or target practice and if,
while going to or from their places of assembly or target
practice, the cartridges or shells are carried in a separate
container and the rifle, pistol or revolver is unloaded.
  (5)  Officers or employees of the United States duly
authorized to carry a concealed firearm.
  (6)  Agents, messengers and other employees of common
carriers, banks, or business firms, whose duties require them
to protect moneys, valuables and other property in the
discharge of such duties.
  (7)  Any person engaged in the business of  manufacturing,
repairing, or dealing in firearms, or the agent or
representative of any such person, having in his possession,
using or carrying a firearm in the usual or ordinary course
of such business.
  (8)  Any person while carrying a firearm unloaded and in
a secure wrapper from the place of purchase to his home or
place of business, or to a place of repair or back to his
home or place of business, or in moving from one place of
abode or business to another or from his home
or recreational home or dwelling or back, or to recover
stolen property under section 6111.1(b)(4) (relating to
Pennsylvania State Police) or to a location to which the
person has been directed to surrender firearms under 23
Pa.C.S.   6108 (relating to relief) or back upon return of
the surrendered firearm.
  (9)  Persons licensed to hunt, take furbearers or fish in
this Commonwealth, if such persons are actually hunting,
taking furbearers or fishing or are going to the places where
they desire to hunt, take furbearers or fish or returning
from such places.
  (10)  Persons training dogs, if such person, are actually
training dogs during the regular training season.
  (11)  Any person while carrying a firearm in any vehicle,
which person possesses a valid and lawfully issued license 
for that firearm which has been issued under the laws of the
United States or any other state.
  (12)  A PERSON WHO HAS A LAWFULLY ISSUED LICENSE TO CARRY
A FIREARM PURSUANT TO SECTION 6109 (RELATING TO LICENSES) AND
THAT SAID LICENSE EXPIRED WITHIN SIX MONTHS PRIOR TO THE DATE
OF ARREST AND THAT THE INDIVIDUAL IS OTHERWISE ELIGIBLE FOR
RENEWAL OF THE LICENSE.
* * *

  6109. Licenses.
  (a)  Purpose of license.--A license to carry a firearm shall
be for the purpose of carrying a firearm concealed on or about
one's person or in a vehicle [within] THROUGHOUT this
Commonwealth.
* * *

  6111. Sale or transfer of firearms.
  (a) Time and manner of delivery.--
          (1)  Except as provided in paragraph (2), no seller
shall deliver a firearm to the purchaser or transferee thereof
until 48 hours shall have elapsed from the time of the
application for the purchase thereof, and, when delivered,
the firearm shall be securely wrapped and shall be unloaded.
          (2)  Thirty days after publication in the Pennsylvania
Bulletin that the Instantaneous Criminal History Records
Check System has been established in accordance with the
Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act (Public Law 103- 159, 18
U.S.C.   921 et seq.), no seller shall deliver a firearm to
the purchaser thereof until the provisions of this section
have been satisfied, and, when delivered, the firearm shall
be securely wrapped and shall be unloaded
  (b) Duty of seller.--No licensed importer, licensed
manufacturer or licensed dealer shall sell or deliver any
firearm to another person, other than a licensed importer,
licensed manufacturer, licensed dealer or licensed collector,
until the conditions of subsection (a) have been satisfied and
until he has:
  (1) For purposes of a firearm as defined in section 6102
(relating to definitions), obtained a completed
application/record of sale from the potential buyer or
transferee to be filled out in triplicate, the original copy
to be sent to the Pennsylvania State Police, postmarked via
first class mail, within 14 days of the sale, one copy to be
retained by the licensed importer, licensed manufacturer or
licensed dealer FOR A PERIOD OF 20 YEARS and one copy to be
[retained by] PROVIDED TO the purchaser or transferee. The
form of this application/record of sale shall be no more than
one page in length and shall be promulgated by the
Pennsylvania State Police and provided by the licensed
importer, licensed manufacturer or licensed dealer.  The
application/record of sale shall include the name, address,
birthdate, gender, race, physical description and Social
Security number of the purchaser or transferee, the date of
the application and the caliber, length of barrel, make,
model and manufacturer's number of the firearm to be
purchased or transferred.
  (1.1)  ON AND AFTER THE EARLIER OF THE DATE OF
PUBLICATION IN THE PENNSYLVANIA BULLETIN OF A NOTICE BY THE
PENNSYLVANIA STATE POLICE THAT THE INSTANTANEOUS RECORDS
CHECK HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED OR THE DATE OF JULY 1,1998, ALL
OF THE FOLLOWING SHALL APPLY:
  _( i )_  For purposes of a firearm which exceeds the
barrel and related lengths set forth in section 6102,
obtained a completed application/record of sale from the
potential buyer or transferee to be filled out in
triplicate, the original copy to be sent to the
Pennsylvania State Police, postmarked via first class
mail, within 14 days of sale, one copy to be filled by
the licensed importer, licensed manufacturer or licensed
dealer FOR A PERIOD OF 20 YEARS and one copy to be
[retained by] PROVIDED TO the purchaser or transferee.
  _(ii)_ The form of the applicant or/record of sale
shall be no more than one page in length and shall be
promulgated by the Pennsylvania State Police and provided
by the licensed importer, licensed manufacturer or
licensed dealer.
  _(iii)_ For purposes of conducting the criminal
history, juvenile delinquency and mental health records
background check which shall be completed within ten days
of receipt of the information from the dealer, the
application/record of sale shall include the name,
address, birthdate, gender, race, physical description
and Social Security number of the purchaser or transferee
and the date of application.
  _(iv)_  No information regarding the type of firearm
need be included other than an indication that the
firearm exceeds the barrel lengths set forth in section
6102.
  _(v)_  Unless it has been discovered pursuant to a
criminal history, juvenile delinquency and mental health
records background check that the potential purchaser or
transferee is prohibited from possessing a firearm
pursuant to section 6105 (relating to persons not to
possess, use, manufacture, control , sell or transfer
firearms), no information on the application/record of
sale provided pursuant to this subsection shall be
retained as precluded by section 6111.4 (relating to
registration of firearms) by the Pennsylvania State
Police either through retention of the application/record
of sale or by entering the information onto a computer,
and, further, an application/record of sale received by
the Pennsylvania State Police pursuant to this subsection
shall be destroyed within 72 hours of the completion of
the criminal history, juvenile delinquency and mental
health records background check.
  (1.2) Fees collected under paragraph (3) and section
6111.2 (relating to firearm sales surcharge) shall be
transmitted to the Pennsylvania State Police within 14 days 
of collection.
  (1.3) In addition to the criminal penalty under section
6119 (relating to violation penalty), any person who
knowingly and intentionally maintains or fails to destroy any
information submitted to the Pennsylvania State Police or
purposes of a background check pursuant to paragraphs (1.1)
and (1.4) OR VIOLATES * 6111.4 (RELATING TO REGISTRATION OF
FIREARMS) shall be subject to a civil penalty of [up to] $250
per VIOLATION, entry or failure to destroy.
  (1.4) Prior to January 1, 1997, and following
implementation of the instantaneous records check by the
Pennsylvania State Police on or before October 11, 1999,
application/record of sale shall be completed for the
purchase or transfer of a firearm which exceeds the barrel
lengths set forth in section 6102. A statement shall be
submitted by the dealer to the Pennsylvania State Police,
postmarked via first class mail, within 4 days of the sale,
containing the number of firearms sold which exceed the
barrel and related lengths set forth in section 6102, the
amount of surcharge and other fees remitted and a list of
unique approval numbers given pursuant to paragraph (4),
together with a statement that the background checks have
been performed on the firearms contained in the statement.
The form of the statement relating to performance of
background checks shall be promulgated by the Pennsylvania
State Police.
  (2) Inspected photo identification of the potential
purchaser or transferee, including, but not limited to, a
driver's license, official Pennsylvania photo identification
card or official government photo identification card. In the
case of a potential buyer or transferee who is a member of a
recognized religious sect or community whose tenets forbid or
discourage the taking of photographs of members of that sect
or community, a seller shall accept a valid-without-photo
driver's license or a combination of documents, as described
by the Pennsylvania State Police, containing the applicant's
name, address, date of birth and the signature of the
applicant.
  (3) Requested by means of a telephone call that the
Pennsylvania State Police conduct a criminal history
juvenile delinquency history and a mental health record
check. The requester shall be charged a fee equivalent to the
cost of providing the service but not to exceed $2 per buyer
or transferee.
  (4) Received a unique approval number for that inquiry
from the Pennsylvania State Police and recorded the date and
the number on the application/record of sale form.
  (5) Issued a receipt containing the information from
paragraph (4), including the unique approval number of the
purchaser. This receipt shall be prima facie evidence of the
purchaser's or transferee's compliance with the provisions of
this section.
  (6) Unless it has been discovered pursuant to a criminal
history, juvenile delinquency and mental health records
background check that the potential purchaser or transferee
is prohibited from possessing a firearm pursuant to section
6105, no information received via telephone following the
implementation of the instantaneous background check system
from a purchaser or transferee who has received a unique
approval number shall be retained by the Pennsylvania State
Police.
  (c) Duty of other persons--Any person who is not a licensed
importer, manufacturer or dealer and who desires to sell or
transfer a firearm to another unlicensed person shall do so only
upon the place of business of a licensed importer, manufacturer,
dealer or county sheriff's office, the latter of whom shall
follow the procedure set forth in this section as if he were the
seller of the firearm. The provisions of this section shall not
apply to transfers between spouses or to transfers between a
parent and child or to transfers between grandparent and
grandchild..
  (d) Defense.--Compliance with the provisions of this section
shall be a defense to any criminal complaint under the laws of
this Commonwealth OR OTHER CLAIM OR CAUSE OF ACTION UNDER THIS
CHAPTER arising from the sale or transfer of any firearm.
  (e) Nonapplicability of section.---This section shall not
apply to the following:
          (1) Any firearm manufactured on or before 1998.
          (2) Any firearm with a matchlock, flintlock or
          percussion cap type of ignition system.
          (3) Any replica of any firearm described in
          paragraph(1) if the replica:
               (i) is not designed or redesigned to use rimfire
          or conventional center fire fixed ammunition; or
               (ii) uses rimfire or conventional center fire
          fixed ammunition which is no longer manufactured in the
          United States and which is not readily available in the
          ordinary channels of commercial trade.
  (f) Application of section.--
         (1) For the purposes of this section only, except as
provided by paragraph (2), "firearm" shall mean any weapon
which is designed to or may readily be converted to expel any
projectile by the action of an explosive or the frame of
receiver of any such weapon.
         (2) The provisions contained in subsections (a) and  
shall only apply to pistols or revolvers with a barrel length
of less than 15 inches, any shotgun with a barrel length of
less than 18 inches, any rifle with a barrel length of less
than 16 inches or any firearm with an overall length of less
than 26 inches.
  (3) The provisions contained in subsection (a) shall not
apply to any law enforcement officer whose current
identification as a law enforcement officer shall be
construed as a valid license to carry a firearm or any person
who possesses a valid license to carry a firearm under
section 6109 (relating to licenses).
  (4) (i) The provisions of subsection (a) shall not
apply to any person who presents the seller or
transferor a written statement issued by the official
described in subparagraph (iii) during the ten-day period
ending on the date of the most recent proposal of such
transfer or sale by the transferee or purchaser stating
that the transferee or purchaser requires access to a
firearm because of a threat to the life of the transferee
or purchaser or any member of the household of that
transferee or purchaser.
  (ii) The issuing official shall notify the
applicant's local police authority that such a statement
has been issued. In counties of the first class the chief
of police shall notify the police station or substation
closest to the applicant's residence.
  (iii) The statement issued under subparagraph (ii)
shall be issued by the district attorney, or his
designee, of the county of residence of the transferee or
purchaser resides in a municipality where there is no
chief of police. Otherwise, the statement shall be issued
by the chief of police in the municipality in which the
purchaser or transferee resides.
(g) Penalties.--
  (1) Any person, licensed dealer, licensed manufacturer
or licensed importer who knowingly or intentionally sells,
delivers or transfers a firearm in violation of this section
commits a misdemeanor of the second degree.
  (2) Any person, licensed dealer, licensed manufacturer
or licensed importer who knowingly or intentionally sells,
delivers or transfers a firearm under circumstances intended
to provide a firearm to any person, purchaser or transferee
who is unqualified or ineligible to control, possess or use
firearm under this chapter commits a felony of the third
degree and shall in addition be subject to revocation of
license to sell firearms for a period of three years.
  (3) Any person, licensed dealer, licensed manufacturer
or licensed importer who knowingly and intentionally requests
a criminal history, juvenile delinquency [or], mental health
record check OR OTHER CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION PURSUANT
SECTION 6109 (RELATING TO LICENSES) from the Pennsylvania
State Police OR OTHER LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY under this
chapter for any purpose other than compliance with this
chapter or knowingly and intentionally disseminates any
criminal history, juvenile delinquency [or], mental health
record [information] OR OTHER CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
PURSUANT TO SECTION 6109 to any person other than the subject
of the information commits a felony of the third degree.
  (4) Any person, purchaser or transferee who in
connection with the purchase, delivery or transfer of a
firearm under this chapter knowingly aid intentionally makes
any materially false oral or written statement or willfully
furnishes or exhibits any false identification intended or
likely to deceive the seller, licensed dealer or licensed
manufacturer commits a felony of the third degree.
  (5) Notwithstanding section 306 ( relating to liability
for conduct of another; complicity) or any other statute to
the contrary, any person, licensed importer, licensed dealer
or licensed manufacturer who knowingly and intentionally
sells, delivers or transfers a firearm in violation of this
chapter who has reason to believe that the firearm is
intended to be used in the commission of a crime or attempt
to commit a crime shall be criminally liable for such crime
or attempted crime.
  (6) Notwithstanding any act or statute to the contrary,
any person, licensed importer, licensed manufacturer or
licensed dealer who knowingly and intentionally sells or
delivers a firearm in violation of this chapter who has
reason to believe that the firearm is intended to be used ln
the commission of a crime or attempt to commit a crime shall
be liable in the amount of the civil judgment for injuries
suffered by any person so injured by such crime or attempted
crime.
  (h) Subsequent violation penalty.--
          (1) A second or subsequent violation of this section
shall be a felony of the second degree and shall be
punishable by a mandatory minimum sentence of imprisonment of
five years. A second or subsequent offense shall also result
in permanent revocation of any license to sell, import or
manufacture a firearm.
          (2) Notice of the applicability of this subsection to
the defendant [shall not be required prior to conviction,
but] and reasonable notice of the Commonwealth's intention
proceed under this section shall be provided [after
conviction and before sentencing.] PRIOR TO TRIAL.  The
applicability of this section shall be determined at
sentencing. The court shall consider evidence presented at
trial, shall afford the Commonwealth and the defendant an
opportunity to present necessary additional evidence and
shall determine by a preponderance of the evidence if this
section is applicable.
          (3) There shall be no authority for a court to impose
on a defendant to which this subsection is applicable a lesser
sentence than provided for in paragraph (1), to place the
defendant on probation or to suspend sentence. Nothing in
this section shall prevent the sentencing court from imposing
a sentence greater than that provided in this section.
Sentencing guidelines promulgated by the Pennsylvania
Commission on Sentencing shall not supersede the mandatory
sentences provided in this section.
  (4) If a sentencing court refuses to apply this
subsection where applicable, the Commonwealth shall have the
right to appellate review of the action if the sentencing
court. The appellate court shall vacate the sentence and
remand the case to the sentencing court from  imposition of a
sentence in accordance with this section lf it finds that the
sentence was imposed in violation of the subsection.
  (i) Confidentiality.--[Information furnished by a potential
purchaser or transferee under this section or any applicant for
a license to carry a firearm as provided by section 6109 shall
be confidential and not subject to public disclosure.] ALL
INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE POTENTIAL PURCHASER, TRANSFEREE OR
APPLICANT, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE POTENTIAL
PURCHASER, TRANSFEREE OR APPLICANT'S NAME OR IDENTITY, FURNISHED
BY A POTENTIAL PURCHASER OR TRANSFEREE UNDER THIS SECTION OR
APPLICANT FOR A LICENSE TO CARRY A FIREARM AS PROVIDED BY
SECTION 6109 SHALL BE CONFIDENTIAL AND NOT SUBJECT TO PUBLIC
DISCLOSURE. IN ADDITION TO ANY OTHER SANCTION OR PENALTY IMPOSED
BY THIS CHAPTER, ANY PERSON, LICENSED DEALER, STATE OR LOCAL
GOVERNMENTAL AGENCY OR DEPARTMENT THAT VIOLATES THIS SUBSECTION
SHALL BE LIABLE IN CIVIL DAMAGES IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,000 PER
OCCURRENCE OR THREE TIMES THE ACTUAL DAMAGES INCURRED AS A
RESULT OF THE VIOLATION, WHICHEVER IS GREATER, AS WELL AS
REASONABLE ATTORNEY FEES.
6111.1. Pennsylvania State Police.
* * *
(b) Duty of Pennsylvania State Police.--
* * *
  (2) In the event of electronic failure, SCHEDULED
COMPUTER DOWNTIME or similar event beyond the control of the
Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania State Police
shall immediately notify the requesting licensee of the
reason for and estimated length of the delay.  If the failure
or event lasts for a period exceeding 48 hours, the dealer
shall not be subject to any penalty [for failure to complete
an] COMPLETING A TRANSACTION ABSENT THE COMPLETION OF AN
instantaneous records check for the remainder of the failure
or similar event, but the dealer shall obtain a completed
application/record of sale following the provisions of
section 6111(b)(1) and (1.1) (relating to sale or transfer of
firearms) as if an instantaneous records check has not been
established for any sale or transfer of a firearm for the
purpose of a subsequent background check.
* * *

  (k) [Definition.--For the purposes of this section only, the
term "firearm" shall have the same meaning as in section 6111.2
(relating to firearm sales surcharge).] DEFINITIONS.--AS USED IN
THIS SECTION, THE FOLLOWING WORDS AND PHRASES SHALL HAVE THE
MEANINGS GIVEN TO THEM IN THIS SUBSECTION:
  "FIREARM." THE TERM SHALL HAVE THE SAME MEANING AS IN
SECTION 6111.2 (RELATING TO FIREARM SALES SURCHARGE).
  "PHYSICIAN." ANY LICENSED PSYCHIATRIST OR CLINICAL
PSYCHOLOGIST AS DEFINED IN THE ACT OF JULY 3, 1976 (P.L.817,
NO.143), KNOWN AS THE MENTAL HEALTH PROCEDURES ACT.
  6112. Retail dealer required to be licensed.
No retail dealer shall sell, or otherwise transfer
for sale or transfer, or have in his possession with intent to
sell or transfer, any firearm AS DEFINED IN SECTION 6113(D)
(RELATING TO LICENSING OF DEALERS) without being licensed as
provided in this [subchapter] CHAPTER.
  6122. Proof of license and exception.
  (a) General rule.--When carrying a firearm concealed on or
about one's person or in a vehicle, an individual licensed to
carry a firearm shall, upon lawful demand of a law enforcement
officer, produce the license for inspection. FAILURE TO PRODUCE
SUCH LICENSE, EITHER AT THE TIME OF ARREST OR AT THE PRELIMINARY
HEARING, SHALL CREATE A REBUTTABLE PRESUMPTION OF NONLICENSURE.

  Section 2. Section 6141 of Title 18 is repealed.
  Section 3. Title 18 is amended by adding a section to read:
  6141.1. PURCHASE OF RIFLES AND SHOTGUNS OUTSIDE THIS
COMMONWEALTH 
NOTHING IN THIS CHAPTER SHALL BE CONSTRUED TO PROHIBIT A
PERSON IN THIS COMMONWEALTH WHO MAY LAWFULLY PURCHASE, POSSESS,
USE, CONTROL, SELL, TRANSFER OR MANUFACTURE A FIREARM WHICH
EXCEEDS THE BARREL AND RELATED LENGTHS SET FORTH IN SECTION 6102
(RELATING TO DEFINITIONS), FROM LAWFULLY PURCHASING OR OTHERWISE
OBTAININQ SUCH A FIREARM IN A JURISDICTION OUTSIDE THIS
COMMONWEALTH.
Section 4. Section 9122 of Title 18 is amended by adding a
subsection to read:

Amend Sec. 2, page 2, line 13, by striking out all of said
line and inserting

Section 5. This act shall take effect as follows:
  (1) The amendment of 18 Pa.C.S.   6 (b)(1.L) shall
take effect immediately.
  (2) This section shall take effect immediately.
  (3) The remainder of this act shall take effect ln 60
days.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
6300.940FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 27 1997 11:1227
April 25, 1997

ATTENTION NORTH CAROLINA GUN OWNERS AND SPORTSMEN

Good News!  HB 8 - NRA-supported legislation repealing Macon County
hunting restrictions, is now law. Members: Please call HB 8 sponsors
State Senator Bob Carpenter and State Representative James Carpenter
at (919) 733-4111 and thank them for protecting Sportsmen's rights. 
Still moving through the legislature are two NRA-supported measures. 
HB 1012 - shooting range protection legislation, that would protect
shooting ranges against noise ordinances or nuisance actions aimed at
shutting them down.  HB 1012 has been reported out of the House
Judiciary Committee and is headed for the House floor for
consideration.  Also, HB 580, legislation that includes a "sister
state" concealed handgun reciprocity provision as well as language
enabling the state's Attorney General to issue concealed handgun
permits to out-of-state residents.  HB 580 passed out of the House
Judiciary Committee and is now headed for the Finance Committee.
Members: Please contact your State Representatives  at (919) 733-4111
and urge them to support HB 1012 and HB 580, respectively.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.941FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 27 1997 11:1269
April 25, 1997

CALIFORNIA

MORE ANTI-GUN BILLS ON THE MOVE: On Tuesday, April 22, the
Assembly Public Safety Committee approved AB 991 (Perata) which
would require new residents of the state to register their
handguns, failure to do so resulting in a misdemeanor and AB 1124
(Aroner) which would mandate that all stored firearms or those
being transported in a vehicle be equipped with a trigger lock. 
These proposals now head to the Assembly floor for consideration.

The Senate Public Safety Committee passed SB 1339 (Calderon)
which would ban the possession of certain high-capacity center
fire detachable magazines.  The bill now awaits a vote by the
full Senate.  Surprisingly, Senator Bruce McPherson (R-Santa
Cruz), who in the past has been generally supportive of Second
Amendment issues, voted for SB 1339.  Please contact your state
assembly member and state senator respectively and express your
opposition to these measures!

HEARINGS DELAYED: Pushed back another two weeks were SB 500
(Polanco), an attempt to ban so called "Saturday Night Specials",
SB 643 (Polanco) which seeks to repeal state firearms preemption,
and SB 513 (Hayden), which would restrict firearm purchases to
one every thirty days.  Please call the members of Senate Public
Safety Committee and express your opposition.  All area codes are
(916):
               Senate Criminal Procedure Committee

John Vasconcellos (Ch.)       445-9740
Richard Rainey (V. Ch.)       445-6083
John Burton                   445-1412
Quentin Kopp                  445-0503
Bruce McPherson               445-5843
Richard Polanco               445-3456
Adam Schiff                   445-5976
Diane Watson                  445-5215

ANTI-HUNTING MEASURE FAILS:  A measure which would have banned
the hunting of bear and bobcat with dogs, SB 1143 (Sher), was
defeated in the Senate Natural Resources and Wildlife Committee
on a 4-3 vote.  With five votes required for approval, Senators
Thompson and Johnston abstained, providing the winning margin. 
Please express your thanks to Senator Thompson, at (916) 445-
3375, and Senator Johnston, at (916) 445-2407.  Though the bill
was granted reconsideration, if there is another vote it will
probably not be until January of 1998.

BILLS TO REPEAL PREEMPTION AT A STANDSTILL: Two proposals seeking
to overturn California's state firearms preemption statute seemed
to have stalled. AB 136 (Villaraigosa) has been moved to the
inactive file and AB 247 (Scott) was not brought up for a vote on
Thursday.  Keep up the calls - they're hearing you!

L.A. COUNTY LEGISLATIVE ALERT:  A sweeping measure seeking to ban
the sale of handguns and place tight restrictions on dealers
could be considered by the Los Angeles County Board of
Supervisors as early as next week!  It is critical that gun
owners, family members, and friends who reside in L.A. County
contact Supervisor Gloria Molina at (213) 974-4111 and urge her
to oppose this measure!

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.942FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 27 1997 11:13128
April 25, 1997

Alerts: CO CT DE IA KS LA MA MI OR TN TX

Colorado: Today, the full House passed SB 96, the NRA-backed
right to carry reform bill.   Members: Please call Governor Romer
at (303) 866-2471 and urge him to sign SB 96 into law when it
reaches his desk.

Connecticut: The Connecticut Legislature is currently considering
a measure that would make public the names and addresses of
citizens with permits to purchase and/or carry handguns or semi-
automatic firearms.  NRA-ILA, the Connecticut Sportsman's
Alliance, the Connecticut Gun Owners Action League and the
Coalition of Connecticut Sportsmen oppose this privacy-invasive
legislation and have advocated our opposition of SB 1120 to state
lawmakers. On another note, NRA-ILA and state activists continue
to work toward legislation that would protect shooting ranges
against noise ordinances or nuisance actions aimed at shutting
them down.  Although, the original bill died in the Judiciary
Committee, there are many vehicles still available to which range
protection legislation could be attached.  Therefore, it is
important that gun owners and sportsmen contact their lawmakers
and point out the importance of protecting shooting ranges, which
have long been traditional areas where people learn to use
firearms safely and responsibly. Members: Please contact your
State Senators at (860) 240-0500 and your State Representatives
at (860) 240-0400 and urge them to oppose SB 1120 and to support
shooting range protection legislation.  

Delaware: The full Senate will soon consider SB 29, a bill that
guts Delaware's current firearms preemption law.  This bill would
open a loophole for Wilmington politicians to impose strict gun
control regulations on the carrying and possession of firearms
within the city limits. Members: Please call your State Senators
and encourage them to oppose SB 29. 

Iowa: HB 142, the handgun deer hunting bill has passed both the
House and Senate.  The Senate version is set for House
concurrence sometime next week, before going to the Governor. 
We'll keep you posted!  

Kansas: Unfortunately Governor Graves' ignored the will of the
people on Monday, April 21 by vetoing HB 2159, the NRA-backed
right to carry bill.  NRA-ILA and state activists are now working
for an override vote during the veto session that is scheduled to
begin April 30.  Members: Please contact your State
Representatives  and urge them to support the override of Gov.
Graves' veto.  

Louisiana: Good News! HB 824, an NRA-opposed measure, that gave
parishes the voting ability to opt out of allowing law-abiding
citizens to carry firearms concealed for personal protection
(even though they possess a statewide issued right to carry
permit) was defeated on the House floor 74-26.  In addition, SB
694, NRA-supported shooting range protection, has been reported
out of the Environmental Quality Committee and is now headed to
the floor. Members: Please call your State Senators and urge them
to support SB 694.  

Massachusetts: On Saturday, May 3, GOAL is hosting a free
workshop and strategy session at the Braintree Rifle & Pistol
Club on "how to prepare testimony." The workshop is designed to
assist gun owners, who wish to testify, in planning for the May
14 hearing on the semi-automatic gun bans before the Joint
Committee on Criminal Justice. For more details and to pre-
register please call GOAL at 508-393-5333. 

Michigan: On Tuesday, April 29, the House Judiciary Committee
will consider two NRA-opposed bills. HB 4192, would amend the
handgun licensure act to require that an individual seeking a
license to own a pistol successfully complete a pistol safety
training program before recieving a license. The bill also make
several amendments to the requirements for an applicant to
receive a license to purchase, carry, or transport a pistol. 
Additionally, HB 4198, would make it illegal under certain
circumstances to leave or store a firearm in a place where it
might be accessible to a minor.   Members: Please call your State
Representatives and urge them to oppose HB 4192 and HB 4198.

Oregon: In Oregon, two NRA-opposed bills have been referred to
the State Senate Crime and Corrections Committee.  The first bill
SB 673, expands the instant check system to all firearm
purchases.  The state police currently register handgun purchases
and would do the same for rifles and shotguns under SB 673.  The
second bill, SB 700, bans private firearm transfers between non-
licensed individuals at gun shows.  Your State Senator, Shirley
Stull, is chair of the Senate Crime and Corrections Committee and
a staunch supporter of the Second Amendment.  Please call Senator
Stull, at (800) 332-2313 and urge her not to hear SB 673 and SB
700.  Also, State Senator, Neil Bryant has shown an interest in
hearings being held on these measures in the Senate Crime and
Corrections Committee.  Please call Senator Bryant at (503) 986-
1727 and request his assistance in ensuring that these bills are
not heard. You can also reach him by fax at (503) 986-1976 or by
e-mail at bryant.sen@state.or.us 

Tennessee: The House Judiciary Committee has reported out HB
1055, NRA-supported right to carry reform legislation.  HB 1055
now headed to the floor for consideration. Also, HB 939 is
scheduled for a hearing in the Criminal Practices Subcommittee on
Tuesday, April 29.  This bill would clarify restrictions on where
permit holders may lawfully carry.  Members:Call your State
Representatives and urge them to support HB 1055 and HB 939.  

Texas: ALERT TO TEXAS GUN OWNERS: HB 2753 (Greenburg), banning
the carrying of a concealed handgun in a movie theater - even by
license holders, was originally scheduled for a hearing on
Wednesday, April 23.  The House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee
has rescheduled that hearing for Tuesday, April 29, at 8:00 a.m.
in Room E2.016 of the capitol extension in Austin.  PLEASE MAKE
PLANS TO ATTEND THE HEARING AND SIGN UP IN OPPOSITION TO HB 2753.

Thanks to everyone who turned out for the House Public Safety
Committee hearings on HB 165 (mandatory training for handgun
purchases), HB 1980(ban on non-FFL sales at gun shows) and a host
of other anti-gun bills.  All bills are still pending in
committee -- with the exception of HCR 194, Rep. Suzanna Gratia
Hupp's resolution establishing Children's Gun Safety Week and
commending NRA's Eddie Eagle program, which was reported out by
the committee.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.943FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun Apr 27 1997 11:13133
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 17                                            4/25/97

            DRAFT BATF BULLET STUDY SHOWS NRA IS RIGHT

     This week, BATF released a draft of a study on firearms
ammunition and protective vests. As you may recall, the
Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act of 1996 called upon
BATF to conduct this examination and report its findings. The
period of the study was the decade 1985-1994. Much as we
expected, the conclusions BATF came to were virtually identical
to what NRA has been saying all along -- namely, no U.S. law
enforcement officer "who was wearing a bullet-resistant vest died
as a result of any round or ammunition having been fired from a
handgun, penetrating that officer's armor."  In addition to
stressing the need for officers to wear and understand the
practical benefits of soft body armor, the study noted that,
"[E]xisting laws are working, no additional legislation regarding
such laws is necessary."   BATF concluded, "To prohibit
any...commonly used [handgun] cartridges because they might
defeat a Level I bullet-resistant vest would create an
unreasonable burden on the legitimate consumers of such
cartridges."   In a blatantly political contradiction, yesterday
the Treasury Department  (which oversees BATF) nixed its own
experts when they issued a press  release disagreeing with BATF's
conclusion that additional  bullet ban legislation is unnecessary
noting, BATF "is wrong and does not reflect the Treasury
Department's position on cop-killer bullets."  This week's
actions prove two things.  First, additional legislation on this
front is not needed. And second, those who call for bullet bans,
such as Bill Clinton,  Charles Schumer,  and Clinton appointees
at the Treasury Department, are ignoring the facts and are trying
to score political points. In discussing the efficacy of body
armor BATF found, "that officers who do not wear protective armor
are 13.5 times more likely to be killed if shot in an armed
confrontation." In other words, these vests save police officers'
lives.  As a result, NRA is wholly supportive of H.R. 1410 -- a
bill sponsored by Rep. Bob Barr (R-Ga.) offering a tax credit to
law enforcement officers who purchase their own body armor -- and
we encourage our members to call their U.S. Representatives at
202/224-3121 in support of H.R. 1410.
                                 
SENATOR SCHUMER?  SAY IT AIN'T SO!  On April 17, Rep. Charles
Schumer (D-N.Y.) made it official -- he's seeking the Democrat
nomination to challenge Sen. Alfonse D'Amato (R) in 1998.  For
months there was speculation that Schumer would seek higher
office, as he was also mulling over a challenge to Gov. George
Pataki (R).  While the good news for New York gun owners is that
Schumer will be giving up his House seat to run for the Senate,
the bad  news is he'll be taking his lie-laden support for
banning guns on the road across the state.  With $5 million to
bankroll his bid for higher office, gun owners can expect
Congressman Schumer to kick his anti-gun propaganda machine into
high gear as he aspires to do in the U.S. Senate what he's done
in the U.S. House -- vilify the NRA and blame law-abiding gun
owners for the heinous acts of criminals.  If Schumer is defeated
in either the Democrat primary or in the general election,
Congressman Schumer will become Citizen Schumer!  While we don't
know who else will be running, one thing's for certain -- few
people on this planet are as  hostile toward our Second Amendment
freedoms as the gun grabbing Schumer.  NRA members nationwide
will be looking to New Yorkers to do the nation's law-abiding gun
owners a major service by denying Rep. Schumer a U.S. Senate seat
next year.

A LOOK AT THE STATES:

COLORADO: Today, the full House passed SB 96, the NRA-backed
right to carry reform bill.   Please call Governor Romer at (303)
866-2471 and urge him to sign SB 96 into law when it reaches his
desk.

DELAWARE: The full Senate will soon consider SB 29, a bill that
guts Delaware's current firearms preemption law.  SB 29 would
open a loophole for Wilmington politicians to impose strict gun
control regulations on the carrying and possession of firearms
within the city limits.  Please call your State Senators and
encourage them to oppose SB 29.

KANSAS: Unfortunately, Governor Graves ignored the will of the
people on Monday, April 21, by vetoing HB 2159, the NRA-backed
right to carry bill.  NRA-ILA and state activists are now working
for an override vote during the veto session, scheduled to begin
April 30.  Please contact your State Representatives  and urge
them to support the override of Gov. Graves's veto. 

MASSACHUSETTS: On Saturday, May 3, GOAL is hosting a free
workshop and strategy session at the Braintree Rifle & Pistol
Club on  how to prepare testimony. The workshop is designed to
assist gun owners in preparation for testimony for the May 14
hearing on the semi-automatic gun bans before the Joint Committee
on Criminal Justice. For more details and to pre-register, please
call GOAL at 508-393-5333.

MICHIGAN: On Tuesday, April 29, the House Judiciary Committee
will consider two NRA-opposed bills. HB 4192 would amend the
handgun licensure act to require that an individual seeking a
license to own a pistol complete a pistol safety training program
before receiving a license. The bill also makes several
amendments to the requirements for an applicant to receive a
license to purchase, carry, or transport a pistol.  The other
bill, HB 4198, would make it illegal under certain circumstances
to leave or store a firearm in a place where it might be
accessible to a minor. Please call your State Representatives and
urge them to oppose HB 4192 and HB 4198.  

NEW MEXICO: For the May 13 special election to fill the seat
formerly held by UN Ambassador Bill Richardson, NRA-PVF has
endorsed Bill Redmond (R).  This is a winner take all election
with no run-off.  Voter turnout is low in a special election, so
the participation of gun owners is even more important.  In
addition to voting for Bill Redmond on May 13, members are
encouraged to volunteer some time to the Redmond campaign.  To
find out how you can help, call the Redmond campaign headquarters
at 505/473-7323.  

TENNESSEE: The House Judiciary Committee has reported out HB
1055, NRA-supported right to carry reform legislation.  HB 1055
now heads to the floor for consideration. Also, HB 939 is
scheduled for a hearing in the Criminal Practices Subcommittee on
Tuesday, April 29.  This bill would clarify restrictions on where
permit holders may lawfully carry.  Please call your State
Representatives and urge them to support HB 1055 and HB 939.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.944FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 04 1997 13:12123
                      NRA CrimeStrike's
                      CrimeWatch Weekly
 
           Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
              issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No.  17                                     April 29, 1997

Victims Win Major Victory In Texas Federal Appeals Case

      In an important victory for victims' rights groups and
others who oppose early releases of violent criminals, the U.S.
Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals last week reversed a U.S.
Magistrate s decision that had denied the right of crime victims,
prosecutors, law enforcement and others to be heard by the Texas
Parole Board in considering criminal paroles.

     The 1995 ruling by U.S. Magistrate Stephen Capelle basically
locked victims out of the parole review process.  The federal
magistrate made the ruling in a class-action suit brought  by
Texas prison inmates.

     Capelle ordered the parole board to adopt a rule providing
that both written and oral protest or victims' statements "shall
not be accepted or considered" by parole panels "for any purpose
when making parole decisions," and also ordered that they not be
placed in inmate files.

     In reversing that ruling last Wednesday, the appeals court
held that since inmates have no constitutionally protected right
to parole, they have no basis for challenging state parole board
procedures as a violation of due process.  The board's freedom to
keep protest letters and the like confidential to prevent inmates
from retaliating against the authors was also deemed rational by
the appeals court.

     Magistrate Capelle's award of nearly $1 million in
attorneys' fees to the inmates' lawyers was also reversed by the
appeals court, since the inmates' lawyers "can no longer be
considered 'the prevailing party' entitled to attorneys' fees."

     CrimeStrike, with the backing of five others groups, had
filed an amicus curiae in support of the state's appeal.  Joining
in it were the American Legislative Exchange Council, Project 21,
the National Center for Policy Research, the Doris Tate Crime
Victims Bureau and Citizens Against Homicide.

     "We felt the U.S. Magistrate's disastrous ruling in this
case struck at the very heart of the victims' rights movement,"
said CrimeStrike Director Elizabeth Swasey, "and it was vital
that we join in this fight.  We are thrilled that the appeals
court upheld this vital right for crime victims to participate in
the criminal justice process."

Officer's Killing Spurs DP Debate

     Less than a week after Washington, D.C., Mayor Marion Barry
offered death penalty legislation against criminals who kill city
police officers, another officer was murdered and a second
wounded.  The shooting death Saturday night of Officer Robert L.
Johnson, Jr., was the third this year.

     Barry's conversion from his long opposition to the death
penalty had found meager support on city council. However, with
Officer Johnson's death, the city's police union issued an angry
call for passage of a  law that not only provides the death
penalty for cop killers, but also for those killing civilians in
the course of a felony. 

     Meanwhile, police have charged Maurice A. Douglas, Sr.,  22,
with shooting the two officers and are seeking a second 17-year-
old suspect.  Questions were being raised about why Douglas, on
probation from one drug conviction and awaiting trial on another,
was out on the street Saturday night.

Virginia's Juvenile Crime Law Used Selectively, Paper Finds

     A newspaper survey that found only a slight increase 
in the number of juvenile criminal defendants referred to 
Virginia's adult circuit courts under a new state law that took 
effect last July is neither surprising nor dismaying, says
CrimeStrike Legislative Coordinator Sue Misiora.

     "While the law calls for the automatic referral to adult
court for murder and aggravated assault charges, prosecutors
still make the determination in the bulk of the serious cases
they deal with," Misiora explained.  "Those who argued that the
juvenile reform bill would bring wholesale referrals to adult
court were simply employing scare tactics."

     CrimeStrike testified before Gov. George Allen's juvenile
justice commission in 1995 and supported the legislation passed
last year.

     "The important thing was to provide the right tools to
combat violent juvenile crime," Misiora said, noting that experts
predict that the problem will get much worse as the crime-prone
youth population grows in the years ahead. 

     Populous Fairfax County in Northern Virginia has transferred
just 17 cases since last July 1, according to the Washington
Post's survey, the majority for murder or armed robbery. 
Conversely, in Richmond referrals tripled.

Inmates Must Pay, Court Rules

     It's legal under a 1995 Washington law for the state to
retain a portion of the money earned or provided to prison
inmates to use to defray prison operating expenses, U.S. District
Court Judge Franklin Burgess ruled April 10.

     Corrections Digest reports that between May 1996, when the
deductions began, and last February, the state collected $627,506
in operating costs.   It also collected $313,753 for savings
accounts (to be returned to inmates upon release), and $156,398
for the state's victims' fund.

                     A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
                 11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
          Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org
                    Reproduction permitted with credit.
                       Source materials available.
6300.945FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 04 1997 13:1215
May 1, 1997

North Carolina

Despite the efforts of anti-gunners in Raleigh, HB 1012, NRA-
backed range protection legislation, passed the House of
Representatives and is now headed for the Senate.  Although the
bill had strong support among the members of the House, a handful
of anti-gunners, led by several members of the Chapel Hill
delegation, used the occasion to attack NRA and our involvement
in drafting and promoting the range protection legislation.  But
the vast majority of Representatives saw through the shrill
attacks on NRA and approved HB 1012 by a sweeping 88-26 margin. 
The bill now goes to the Senate.  MEMBERS: Please call your
Senator at (919) 733-4111 and urge him or her to support HB 1012!
6300.946FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 04 1997 13:1260
May 1, 1997

CALIFORNIA LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITY

After a slow week in Sacramento, with most of the legislature out
of town, we expect things will  heat up next week, with a
possible vote on  AB 136 (Villaraigosa) and AB 247 (Scott), which
both seek to repeal California's state firearms preemption
statute. Keep up the calls to your assembly members, and
continue to make your strong opposition known.

On Wednesday, May 7 the Assembly Appropriations Committee will
hear AB 1077 (Ortiz) which would ban most gun shows.  Please call
the committee members and express your opposition.  All area
codes are (916):

Carole Midgen (Ch.)           445-8077
Charles Poochigian(V.Ch.)     445-2931
Diane Martinez                445-7852
Keith Olberg                  445-8102
Dick Ackerman                 445-7448
Lou Papan                     445-8020
Fred Aguiar                   445-1670
Don Perata                    445-7442
Joe Baca                      445-7454
Kevin Shelley                 445-8253
Tom Bordonaro                 445-7795
Mike Sweeney                  445-8160
Marilyn Brewer                445-7222
Bruce Thompson                445-1676
Tony Cardenas                 445-1616
Helen Thomson                 445-8368
Brett Granlund                445-7552
Antonio Villaraigosa          445-0703
Sheila James Kuehl            445-4956
Carl Washington               445-7486
Mike Machado                  445-7931

On Tuesday, May 6, the Senate Public Safety Committee,  will hear
SB 500 (Polanco), which seeks to ban so called "Saturday Night
Specials",  SB 513 (Hayden), which would restrict the purchase of
concealable firearms to one every 30 days,  and SB 643 (Polanco) 
another attempt to overturn state firearms preemption.  Please
refer to last week's fax for names and telephone numbers of
committee members.

On a brighter note, also on May 6, the Senate Judiciary Committee
will consider SB 517 (Haynes) which is the NRA sponsored range
protection bill.  Please call the committee members and express
your support.  All area codes are (916):

John Burton (Ch.)             445-1412
Bill Lockyer                  445-6671
Tim Leslie (V. Ch.)           445-5788
Jack O'Connell                445-5405
Charles Carderon              445-8315
Byron Sher                    445-6747
Raymond Haynes                445-9781
Cathie Wright                 445-5215
Barbara Lee                   445-6577
6300.947FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed May 07 1997 11:0528
May 6, 1997

ALERT TO TEXAS GUN OWNERS!

The Texas Senate will vote tomorrow (Wednesday) on House Bill
311.  HB 311 sponsored by Rep. Allen Place would, among other
things, create an exemption for CHLs to the unlawful carry
section of the Penal Code.  Currently having a CHL is only a
defense to prosecution for a charge of an unlawful carry.  There
are a number of other technical changes to the Penal Code that
benefit license holders.  It is critical that you call your state
senators first thing tomorrow a.m. and urge them to: 

     1.  Support the Senate Criminal Justice Committee amendments
     to HB 311; 
     2.  Urge them to vote for passage of HB 311 without any
     gutting floor amendments

If you do not know the number for your Senator, you can call the
Capitol operator at (512)463-4630 and ask to be transferred.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.948FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 11 1997 14:3481
May 6, 1997

The following letter was sent to U.S. Representatives today from
Joe Phillips, Director of NRA-ILA Federal Affairs.  NRA Members
and gun owners are encouraged to contact their Representatives at
(202)225-3121 and tell them to vote "NO" on government mandated
trigger locks.

================= 

             VOTE "NO" ON ANY TRIGGER LOCK AMENDMENTS

Dear Member of Congress:

     As the Juvenile Justice Reform Act will be brought to the
House floor within the next several days it is expected that
there will be an effort to attach an amendment to the bill
requiring that a trigger lock be provided with every handgun that
is sold or transferred.  The National Rifle Association Institute
for Legislative Action (NRA-ILA) is adamantly opposed to this
wrong headed and misguided approach.  We ask that you vote "NO"
on any amendment regarding mandates on trigger locks no matter
what the form such as amendment may take.  If such language is
attached to H.R. 3, we would oppose final passage of this
legislation.  Speaking as the Association which for more than 
125 years has been the foremost provider of firearms safety and
education training, we know that this approach is misguided and
potentially harmful.

     The idea of trigger locks is predicated on the false
assumption that a loaded firearm can be rendered harmless by a
trigger lock or other locking device.  A locking device is no
replacement for proper safety training and is no panacea against
careless or irresponsible actions, and it will certainly not stop
the criminal misuse of a firearm.  Such theories tax common
sense.

     Responsible firearms owners know that guns should not be
accessible to those who may misuse them under any circumstances,
any more than a responsible person would allow a child or someone
of diminished capacity behind the wheel of an operable vehicle. 
It should also be clear that no locking device is more effective
than safe storage methods which deny access to firearms by
children or other irresponsible persons.  Worse, because a
trigger lock may not prevent a loaded firearm which is carelessly
handled from discharging, it creates an illusion of safety where
no such condition actually exists.  Furthermore, the idea that a
trigger lock will act as an impediment to criminals, as some have
suggested, is ridiculous.

     Education and firearms safety training has made, and will
continue to make, a substantive difference in preventing firearms
accidents, not trigger locks.  Mandating trigger locks is, in the
main, an idea supported by the same groups who do not want anyone
to have a firearm for any purpose.  In doing so they ignore the
rights of law-abiding overwhelmingly responsible Americans who
use firearms to defend themselves and their families.  According
to award winning research by criminologist Gary Kleck of the
University of Florida, this occurs more than two million times a
year.  Trigger locks make self-defense impossible.

     The main point of the current exercise appears to be another
element in the continuing attempt by the anti-gun groups to fool
the American public into believing that the improper storage of
firearms by law-abiding people can be, in whole or in part
"fixed" by the Federal government.  It should be rejected for the
feel-good hoax it is.  VOTE "NO" ON ANY LEGISLATION REQUIRING
TRIGGER LOCKS, EITHER THEIR USE OR THEIR SALE.

Sincerely,


Joseph M. Phillips, Director
NRA-ILA, Federal Affairs Division

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.949FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 11 1997 14:3436
May 7, 1997
   
                 LA MESA, CALIFORNIA
   
  MEET TANYA K. METAKSA, NRA-ILA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
   & GET YOUR AUTOGRAPHED COPY OF "SAFE, not Sorry"
   
Dear California NRA Member:
   
On FRIDAY, MAY 9, I will be in LA MESA to meet and speak
with members like yourself and to sign copies of my new
book on self-protection -- SAFE, not Sorry.  As the
Executive Director of NRA's Institute for Legislative
Action, my primary responsibility is to protect the Second
Amendment and the inalienable right to self-defense.  As
the creator of NRA's Refuse To Be A Victim  program, I
have written SAFE, not Sorry to be a comprehensive,
easy-to-follow guide on how to make your right to
self-defense work for you.
   
I will be signing copies of SAFE, not Sorry at the Barnes
& Noble bookstore at 5500 Grossmont Center, La Mesa
starting at 7:30pm on Friday, May 9, 1997.  Please call
Barnes & Noble at (619)667-2870 for directions.  For
information on my other SAFE, not Sorry book tour
locations, please call 1-800-392-8683.  I hope to see you
there!
   
Tanya K. Metaksa

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.950FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 11 1997 14:34129
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly
 
             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No. 18                                        May 6, 1997

Federal Legislation Targets Growing Threat From Gangs

     Los Angeles County's street gangs are responsible for nearly
7,000 homicides there in the past 10 years, the head of the LA
County Sheriff's Dept.'s anti-gang unit, Capt. James Mulvihill,
told the Senate Judiciary Committee on April 23.

     The committee heard testimony as it considers the Federal
Gang Violence Act of 1997 (S.54), bipartisan legislation
targeting criminal gang activities. Capt. Mulvihill estimates
there are 1,250 increasingly violent gangs with about 150,000
members in Los Angeles County alone. Nationally, gang membership
is estimated at 652,000.

     The head of the FBI's violent crimes section, Steven Wiley,
testified that criminal groups claiming affiliation with the
Bloods or Crips, Los Angeles-based gangs, have been reported in
180 communities in 42 states.

     Massachusetts authorities are also expressing alarm at the
increasing gang presence along the state's coast, with an
estimated 300 to 500 "mostly self-styled members" of the Crips
and Bloods in gangs around Boston, reports Juvenile Justice
Digest. 

     The federal anti-gang legislation would authorize $20
million over five years to hire additional federal prosecutors to
crack down on gangs.  The law also provides a variety of enhanced
prison sentences for criminal gang activity and would amend the
Federal Travel Act banning interstate or foreign travel to
promote unlawful activity to also target violent gang crime.

Washington State Gets Tough With New Juvenile Crime Law

     Washington state legislators, after years of effort, have
crafted and passed sweeping new juvenile justice legislation that
will send juveniles charged with drive-by-shootings, first degree
rape, child rape and other violent crimes directly to adult
courts for trial. 

      If convicted, they will serve their sentences in adult
prisons and jails, though segregated from adult inmates.  The
legislation replacing the state's 1977 Juvenile Justice Act won
unanimous passage in both houses of the legislature.

     The law also installs a new policy that will preserve
juvenile felony records for use in sentencing for any future
crimes as adults, taking a bite out of the traditional two-track
record system that blinds adult courts in sentencing criminals 
with sealed juvenile records.

     "Washington's new law appears to deal well with today's
violent juvenile criminals, as well as preparing for the crime
wave many experts forecast because of demographic factors," said
CrimeStrike Director Elizabeth Swasey.

Tennessee Prison Gates Spinning

     Nearly 50% of the 9,306 Tennessee prison inmates coming up
for parole over the past year have been released because the
prison system is operating at nearly 100% of capacity, reports
Associated Press. Parole release rates over the prior two years
average just over 35%, according to corrections authorities.

      Tennessee has 3,000 new prison beds coming on line in the
next year, with the first 1,500-bed facility in Hardeman County
to be available this summer. Meanwhile, state legislators will
consider legislation that would privatize the entire 21-prison
system, according to Corrections Digest. 

VAWA Nets Unlikely First Killer

     In one of life's ironies, the first person convicted of
murder under a 1994 federal law making it a crime to cross a
state line to injure a spouse or intimate partner is a woman. 
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) doesn't discriminate.

     Rita Gluzman, 48, was sentenced to life in prison last
Wednesday in federal court in White Plains, N.Y., for her role in
the murder of her husband, Dr. Yakov Gluzman, 48, a Russian-born
microbiologist and cancer researcher.

     Mrs. Gluzman was convicted of killing and dismembering Dr.
Gluzman at his apartment in Pearl River, New York. Mrs. Gluzman,
who lives in New Jersey, allegedly wanted him killed because he
planned to leave her.

     Her cousin, Vladimir Zelenin, whom she enlisted in the plot,
was apprehended as he attempted to dispose of the doctor's body
in a New Jersey river in April 1996. He has pleaded guilty in the
murder and awaits sentencing. 

     While at least two men have been sentenced under the law
against interstate travel to commit domestic abuse, Mrs. Gluzman
is the first to get a murder conviction. 

Megan Kanka's Accused Killer On Trial

     The trial of the man accused of the 1994 rape and murder of
Megan Kanka got underway in a Trenton, N.J.,  court room
yesterday.  Since her death most states have passed "Megan's
Laws" named for the 7-year-old that require public notification
when convicted sexual offenders  move into a neighborhood.

     Jesse K. Timmendequas, 36, a twice-convicted pedophile who
lived across the street from the Kanka family in Hamilton
Township, is charged in Megan's murder.  Though authorities say
he confessed to the crime, Timmendequas has pleaded innocent.

                 A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
      Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.951\\FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 11 1997 14:3434
May 7, 1997

                         DENVER, COLORADO

        MEET TANYA K. METAKSA, NRA-ILA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
         & GET YOUR AUTOGRAPHED COPY OF "SAFE, not Sorry"

Dear Colorado NRA Member:

On Saturday, May 10, I will be in the Denver area to meet and
speak with members like yourself and to sign copies of my new
book on self-protection -- SAFE, not Sorry.  As the Executive
Director of NRA's Institute for Legislative Action, my primary
responsibility is to protect the Second Amendment and the
inalienable right to self-defense.  As the creator of NRA's
Refuse To Be A Victim  program, I have written SAFE, not Sorry to
be a comprehensive, easy-to-follow guide on how to make your
right to self-defense work for you.

I will be signing copies of SAFE, not Sorry at the Borders Books
bookstore at 9515 County Line Road, Englewood starting at 3:00pm
on Saturday, May 10, 1997.  Please call Borders Books at
(303)708-1735 for directions.  For information on my other SAFE,
not Sorry book tour locations, please call 1-800-392-8683.  I
hope to see you there!

Tanya K. Metaksa

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.952FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 11 1997 14:3436
    May 7, 1997

               SIMI VALLEY, CALIFORNIA
   
  MEET TANYA K. METAKSA, NRA-ILA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
   & GET YOUR AUTOGRAPHED COPY OF "SAFE, not Sorry"
   
Dear California NRA Member:
   
On THURSDAY, MAY 8, I will be in SIMI VALLEY to meet and
speak with members like yourself and to sign copies of my
new book on self-protection -- SAFE, not Sorry.  As the
Executive Director of NRA's Institute for Legislative
Action, my primary responsibility is to protect the Second
Amendment and the inalienable right to self-defense.  As
the creator of NRA's Refuse To Be A Victim  program, I
have written SAFE, not Sorry to be a comprehensive,
easy-to-follow guide on how to make your right to
self-defense work for you.
   
I will be signing copies of SAFE, not Sorry at the Crown
Books bookstore on 1281 E. Los Angeles Ave, Simi Valley
starting at 7:00pm on Thursday, May 8, 1997.  Please call
Crown Books at (805)526-0188 for directions.  For
information on my other SAFE, not Sorry book tour
locations, please call 1-800-392-8683.  I hope to see you
there!
   
Tanya K. Metaksa

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.953FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 11 1997 14:3445
MAY 7, 1997

                      LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK

Dear NRA Member:

           YOUR HELP IS NEEDED TO SHOW THAT LONG ISLAND
             SUPPORTS NRA & THE RIGHT TO SELF-DEFENSE

On Tuesday, May 13, Tanya K. Metaksa, Executive Director of the
NRA Institute for Legislative Action, will be on Long Island to
meet and speak with members like yourself and to sign copies of
her new book on self-protection -- SAFE, not Sorry.  As the
Executive Director of NRA's Institute for Legislative Action,
Tanya's primary responsibility is to protect the Second Amendment
and the inalienable right to self-defense.  As the creator of
NRA's Refuse To Be A Victim  program, she has written SAFE, not
Sorry to be a comprehensive, easy-to-follow guide on how to make
your right to self-defense work for you.

Tanya will be signing copies of SAFE, not Sorry at the Barnes &
Noble bookstore at 910 Old Country Road, Carle Place, NY starting
at 7:30pm on Tuesday, May 13, 1997.

UNFORTUNATELY, THE OPPONENTS OF YOUR RIGHT TO SELF-DEFENSE ARE
CALLING THE BARNES & NOBLE BOOKSTORE PROTESTING TANYA'S VISIT!  

APPARENTLY, THEY ARE OPPOSED TO THE IDEA THAT THE MEN AND WOMEN
OF LONG ISLAND SHOULD BE EDUCATED ON HOW TO DEVELOP A PERSONAL
SAFETY STRATEGY AGAINST CRIME!

YOU NEED TO CALL BARNES & NOBLE AT (516)741-9850 AND LET THEM
KNOW YOU ARE PLEASED TANYA WILL SIGNING BOOKS IN YOUR AREA NEXT
WEEK!

For more information on Tanya's other SAFE, not Sorry book tour
locations, please call 1-800-392-8683.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.954FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 11 1997 14:35142
May 8, 1997

                SPECIAL ALERT TO TEXAS GUN OWNERS!

     As early as tomorrow -- Friday, May 9 -- the Texas House of
Representatives could vote on HB 2909, right to carry reform
legislation sponsored by Reps. Bill Carter & Ray Allen.  HB 2909
makes several changes to Texas' carry law that benefit license
holders, including a reduction in penalties for technical
violations of the law (such as neglecting to notify DPS of an
address change) and a provision directing DPS to establish
"reciprocity" agreements with other states in order to allow for
recognition of non-residents' valid out-of state licenses.  

     However, several anti-gunners have circulated gutting
amendments to HB 2909 and may attempt to offer them on the House
floor -- including HB 1980, which bans non-FFL sales at gun shows
(an ominous first step towards ending all private firearm
transfers!)

     It is critical that you call the following key, pro-gun
State Representatives FIRST THING TOMORROW and urge them to
SUPPORT HB 2909, but to OPPOSE any anti-gun amendments to HB 2909
-- including HB 1980 or any "watered down" version of that bill.

     Dial (512) 463-plus 4-digit extension

Dist      Representative           Phone

001       Barry Telford            x0692
002       Tom Ramsay               x0680
003       Pete Patterson           x0650
004       Keith Oakley             x0458
005       Bob Glaze                x0580
006       Ted Kamel                x0584
007       Tommy Merritt            x0750
009       Wayne Christian          x0556
010       Jim Pitts                x0516
011       Todd Staples             x0592
012       Clyde Alexander          x0730
013       Dan Kubiak               x0600
014       Bill Roman               x0698
015       Tom Williams             x0550
016       Bob Rabuck               x0726
017       Jim McReynolds           x0490
018       Allen Hightower          x0570
019       Ron Lewis                x0612
021       Mark Stiles              x0706
024       Craig Eiland             x0502
025       Dennis Bonnen            x0564
026       Charlie Howard           x0710
028       Robert Cook              x0682
029       Tom Uher                 x0724
030       Steve Holzheauser        x0456
031       Judy Hawley              x0512
032       Gene Seaman              x0672
041       Roberto Gutierrez        x0578
043       Tracy King               x0742
044       Richard Raymond          x0590
045       Edmund Kuempel           x0602
046       Alec Rhodes              x0498
047       Terry Keel               x0652
052       Mike Krusee              x0670
053       Harvey Hilderbran        x0536
054       Suzanna Gratia Hupp      x0684
055       Dianne Delisi            x0630
056       Kip Averitt              x0712
058       Arlene Wohlgemuth        x0538
059       Allen Place, Jr.         x0628
060       Jim Keffer               x0656
061       Ric Williamson           x0738
062       Ron Clark                x0474
063       Mary Denny               x0688
064       Jim Horn                 x0582
065       Burt Solomons            x0478
067       Jerry Madden             x0544
068       Charles Finnell          x0526
070       David Counts             x0480
071       Bob Hunter               x0718
072       Robert Junnell           x0472
073       Bob Turner               x0644
076       Norma Chavez             x0622
078       Pat Haggerty             x0728
080       Gary Walker              x0678
081       Buddy West               x0546
082       Tom Craddick             x0500
085       Speaker Pete Laney       x1000
086       John Smithee             x0702
087       David Swinford           x0470
088       Warren Chisum            x0736
089       Sue Palmer               x0610
091       Bill Carter              x0482
092       Todd Smith               x0522
093       Toby Goodman             x0562
094       Ken Grusendorf           x0624
096       Kim Brimer               x0632
097       Anna Mowery              x0608
098       Nancy Moffat             x0690
099       Ken Marchant             x0468
101       Elvira Reyna             x0464
102       Tony Goolsby             x0454
105       Dale Tillery             x0548
106       Ray Allen                x0694
112       Fred Hill                x0486
113       Joe Driver               x0574
114       Will Hartnett            x0576
115       Leticia Van de Putte     x0532
121       Bill Siebert             x0686
122       John Shields             x0658
123       Frank Corte              x0646
126       Peggy Hamric             x0496
127       Joe Crabb                x0520
128       Fred Bosse               x0660
129       Mike Jackson             x0734
130       John Culberson           x0528
131       Ron Wilson               x0744
133       Joe Nixon                x0514
134       Kyle Janek               x0748
135       Gary Elkins              x0722
136       Beverly Woolley          x0696
138       Ken Yarbrough            x0648
140       Kevin Bailey             x0924
141       Senfronia Thompson       x0720
144       Robert Talton            x0460
149       Talmadge Heflin          x0568
150       Paul Hilbert             x0572

P.S. -- The Texas Senate will vote this week on HB 311, Rep.
Allen Place's bill which among other changes to the Texas Penal
Code, creates an exemption for CHLs to the "unlawful carry"
section of the code.  Currently, having a carry license is only a
defense to prosecution for a charge of unlawful carry.  The bill
contains other reforms that benefit CHLs.  Please also call your
State Senators and urge them to support the Senate Criminal
Justice committee amendments to, and final passage of HB 311!

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.955FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 11 1997 14:3549
May 9, 1997

TEXAS

Due to time constraints, the vote by the Texas House of
Republicans on HB 2909, right to carry reform legislation
sponsored by Reps. Bill Carter & Ray Allen will take place
sometime next week.  It is imperative that you continue to call
the pro-gun State Representatives listed in the May 8 Special
Alert and urge them to SUPPORT HB 2909, but to OPPOSE any
anti-gun amendments to HB 2909 -- including HB 1980 or any
"watered down" version of that bill.

TEXAS: The House will likely vote on HB 2909, Right to Carry
reform early next week.  HB 2909 reduces penalties for technical
violations of the carry law and directs DPS to negotiate
reciprocity agreements with other states. Please call your State
Representatives, and urge them to support HB 2909 and to oppose
any anti-gun amendments to the bill.  On a 29 to 2 vote, the
Senate passed HB 311, which amends the Penal Code to create an
exemption for licensed holders to the unlawful carry section of
the Code  (currently, it is only a defense to prosecution for a
charge of unlawful carry if you have a CHL).  Senate amendment
made other technical changes which also benefit license holders.
Please call your State Representatives and urge them to concur
with Senate amendments to HB 311. 

SPECIAL TEXAS ALERT!

On Monday May 12, the Senate Jurisprudence Committee will
consider HB 601, NRA backed shooting range protection
legislation.  Please call the following key Committee members and
urge them to support HB 601.

Sen. Chris Harris   (512)463-0110
Sen. David Cain     (512)463-0102
Sen. Robert Duncan  (512)463-0128
Sen. Steve Ogden    (512)463-0105
Sen. Jeff Wentworth (512)463-0125

The hearing will take place on Monday at 1:30 p.m. in Room E1.012
of the Capitol Extension.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.956FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 11 1997 14:3562
May 9, 1997

ALERT: AK NC OH OR SC TX VA

ALASKA:  SB 141, NRA-backed right to carry reform legislation,
was reported out of the House Finance Committee and is awaiting a
vote on the House floor. Please contact Governor Knowles at (907)
465-3500 and encourage him to sign SB 141 should it reach his
desk. 

NORTH CAROLINA:  HB 1012, the NRA-backed range protection bill,
passed out of the Senate Rules Committee and will soon be heard
by  the Senate Judiciary I Committee. Please call your State
Senator at (919) 733-4111 in support of HB 1012  

OHIO: HB 209, NRA-backed range protection legislation, is
awaiting consideration by the House. Please contact your State
Representatives and encourage them to support HB 209. 

OREGON: Anti gun legislators continue to press for consideration
of two NRA opposed bills: SB 673, which expands the State's
instant check system (and current handgun registration) to cover
all firearms, and SB 700, which bans private firearm transfers
between non-licensed individuals at gun shows.  Please call
Senate President Brady Adams and Senate Majority Leader Gene
Derfler at (800)332-2313, and thank them for not holding 
hearings on these two misguided proposals.  

SOUTH CAROLINA: HB 1375, NRA-supported range protection
legislation was approved by the House Judiciary Committee and is
awaiting action on the House floor.  Please contact your State
Representative in support of HB 1375.  

TEXAS: The House will likely vote on HB 2909, Right to Carry
reform early next week.  HB 2909 reduces penalties for technical
violations of the carry law and directs DPS to negotiate
reciprocity agreements with other states. Please call your State
Representatives, and urge them to support HB 2909 and to oppose
any anti-gun amendments to the bill.  On a 29 to 2 vote, the
Senate passed HB 311, which amends the Penal Code to create an
exemption for licensed holders to the unlawful carry section of
the Code  (currently, it is only a defense to prosecution for a
charge of unlawful carry if you have a CHL).  Senate amendment
made other technical changes which also benefit license holders.
Please call your State Representatives and urge them to concur
with Senate amendments to HB 311. 

VIRGINIA: Anti-gun Judge James Berry's career on the Virginia
Circuit Court officially came to an end this week when Governor
George Allen refused to reappoint him to another eight year term. 
Berry's renomination to the bench was defeated in the legislature
this session thanks to the efforts of NRA-ILA, the only firearms
organization in the state to fight his reappointment.  Judge
Berry will be replaced by the pro-Second Amendment,  John
Prosser, who currently serves on the Winchester City Council.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.957FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 11 1997 14:3534
May 9, 1997

                         DENVER, COLORADO

        MEET TANYA K. METAKSA, NRA-ILA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
         & GET YOUR AUTOGRAPHED COPY OF "SAFE, not Sorry"

Dear Colorado NRA Member:

On Saturday, May 10, I will be in the Denver area to meet and
speak with members like yourself and to sign copies of my new
book on self-protection -- SAFE, not Sorry.  As the Executive
Director of NRA's Institute for Legislative Action, my primary
responsibility is to protect the Second Amendment and the
inalienable right to self-defense.  As the creator of NRA's
Refuse To Be A Victim  program, I have written SAFE, not Sorry to
be a comprehensive, easy-to-follow guide on how to make your
right to self-defense work for you.

I will be signing copies of SAFE, not Sorry at the Borders Books
bookstore at 9515 County Line Road, Englewood starting at 3:00pm
on Saturday, May 10, 1997.  Please call Borders Books at
(303)708-1735 for directions.  For information on my other SAFE,
not Sorry book tour locations, please call 1-800-392-8683.  I
hope to see you there!

Tanya K. Metaksa

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.958FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 11 1997 14:35133
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 19                                             5/9/97

                          HOLY MOSES!
                                
     On Tuesday, the NRA's 126th Annual Meeting of Members came
to a close.  The biggest story emerging from the meetings was the
election of Second Amendment champion and heralded actor,
Charlton Heston, as the Association's First Vice President.  On
Saturday, Mr. Heston was elected by NRA members in attendance as
the 76th member of the NRA's Board of Directors, beating more
than 100 challengers and receiving over 70% of the vote.  On
Monday, elections for the NRA's national officers were conducted,
and the results were: President - Marion P. Hammer, First Vice
President - Charlton Heston  (defeated  incumbent  Neal Knox),
Second Vice President - Asst. Chief of Police (Des Moines, Iowa)
Kayne B. Robinson (defeated incumbent Albert C. Ross), Executive
Vice President - Wayne LaPierre, Secretary - Edward J. Land, Jr.,
and Treasurer - Wilson H. Phillips, Jr.  Mr. LaPierre reappointed
Tanya K. Metaksa and Craig D. Sandler to head NRA-ILA and NRA
General Operations respectively.   The election of Mr. Heston was
the culmination of nearly a week of events that drew tens of
thousands of NRA members from across the country.  Members were
treated to speeches from pro-gun stalwarts U.S. Rep. Bob Barr 
(R-Ga.), U.S. Senator (and NRA Board member) Larry Craig (R-Id.),
State Senator Pam Roach (R-Wash.), and State Senator Bruce
Sweeney (D-Id.).  On Sunday, Rep. Barr hosted a moving panel that
featured Josie Sims Cash, Gina Cushon, Sammie Foust, Marty
Killinger, and Charmaine Klaus.  All of these women used a
firearm to defend their lives, and recounted their harrowing
tales to a riveted audience, thus reinforcing the significance of
the Second Amendment for average citizens in today's society.
This year's meetings were a smashing success, showing those in
attendance and the media just who the NRA family is -- a cross
section of mainstream Americans concerned about safety,
responsibility, and freedom!  Meanwhile, NRA-ILA Executive
Director Tanya Metaksa is spreading the good news about the
Second Amendment nationwide, by touting her new book Safe, Not
Sorry  -- the definitive word on women's personal safety.   In
fact, while in California yesterday, Tanya was on the "Michael
Jackson Show."  And who calls in to help her defend our right to
keep and bear arms?  Many NRA members, including Charlton Heston! 
That's not just teamwork, but WINNING teamwork!

HOUSE PASSES JUVENILE JUSTICE BILL: Yesterday, the U.S. House of
Representatives passed its juvenile justice bill.  As reported in
last week's FAX Alert, the anti-gunners, with the full backing of
the Clinton\Gore Administration, pushed for a trigger-lock
amendment, but were unsuccessful in securing its attachment. 
News reports today note the Administration is not supporting the
current bill because it lacks a trigger-lock provision.  Among
other provisions, the House juvenile crime bill calls for trying
serious juvenile offenders as adults.  The bill now moves to the
Senate for consideration.  Please call your U.S. Senators at
202/224-3121 and encourage them to support the House bill without
any anti-gun amendments. 

COPS ON GUNS: This month, The Informant, a publication of the San
Diego Police Officers Association, published the results  of
their gun control survey.  The results:  82.1% of respondents do
NOT favor an "assault weapons" ban, 82.2% do NOT support a limit
on magazine capacity, 84.9% SUPPORT law-abiding citizens' right
to carry a concealed firearm, 87.8% feel armed citizens are NOT a
threat to peace officers, 94.2% concede gun control laws HAVEN'T
REDUCED violent crime, 92.1% SUPPORT an instant background check,
87.1% believe gun ownership by private citizens INCREASES public
safety, 99.2% believe in streamlining the criminal justice system
(the same percentage also supports the death penalty), 92.1% said
more gun laws will NOT decrease violent crime, 98.5% DON'T
SUPPORT gun buy backs, and 95.6% believe the criminal use of a
gun should result in mandatory sentences with no plea bargaining. 
Also contained in that issue is an eloquent piece by Dave
Bridgman exposing the "Saturday Night Special" myth.  The
Informant survey validates what NRA has known for years -- rank
and file police officers reject placebo gun control laws and
support the right of law-abiding Americans to own firearms for
personal protection.

A LOOK AT THE STATES:

ALASKA:  SB 141, NRA-backed Right to Carry reform legislation,
was reported out of the House Finance Committee and is awaiting a
vote on the House floor . Please contact Governor Knowles at
(907) 465-3500 and encourage him to sign SB 141 should it reach
his desk. 

NORTH CAROLINA:  HB 1012, the NRA-backed range protection bill,
passed out of the Senate Rules Committee and  will soon be heard
by  the Senate Judiciary I Committee.  Please call your State
Senator at (919) 733-4111 in support of HB 1012.  

OHIO: HB 209, NRA-backed range protection legislation, is
awaiting consideration by the House. Please contact your State
Representatives and encourage them to support HB 209. 

OREGON: Anti-gun legislators continue to press for consideration
of two NRA-OPPOSED bills: SB 673, which expands the state's
instant check system (and current handgun registration) to cover
all firearms, and SB 700, which bans private firearm transfers
between non-licensed individuals at gun shows.  Please call
Senate President Brady Adams and Senate Majority Leader Gene
Derfler at (800)332-2313, and thank them for holding firm against
pressure for hearings on these two measures.  

SOUTH CAROLINA: HB 1375, NRA-supported range protection
legislation, passed out of the House Judiciary Committee and  is
awaiting action on the House floor.  Please contact your State
Representatives in support of HB 1375. 

TEXAS: The House will likely vote on HB 2909, Right to Carry
reform, early next week.  HB 2909 reduces penalties for technical
violations of the carry law and directs DPS to negotiate
reciprocity agreements with other states. Please call your State
Representatives and urge them to support HB 2909 and to oppose
any anti-gun amendments to the bill. 

VIRGINIA: Anti-gun Judge James Berry's career on the Virginia
Circuit Court officially came to an end this week when Governor
George Allen refused to reappoint him to another eight year term. 
Berry's renomination to the bench was defeated in the legislature
this session thanks to the efforts of NRA-ILA, the only firearms
organization in the state to fight his reappointment.  Judge
Berry will be replaced by pro-gunner John Prosser.                

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.959FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon May 12 1997 11:22139
May 9, 1997

                 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITY

AB 136 (VILLARAIGOSA) and AB 247 (SCOTT): These proposals seeking
to overturn California's state firearms preemption statute are
pending on the Assembly floor.  The "urgency" provision to AB
246, which would put the law into immediate effect upon passage
and approval by the Governor,  has been removed so it now needs
only 41 votes to pass rather than 54.  Keep up the pressure and
let your assembly member know of your opposition.

SB 517 (HAYNES): On Tuesday, May 6, the Senate Judiciary
Committee approved this NRA-backed bill, which protects shooting
ranges from nuisance actions and noise control ordinances
resulting from development adjacent to the range, on a 5-1 vote. 
Since the bill has no fiscal implications, SB 517 will bypass the
Senate Appropriations Committee and move directly to the Senate
floor.  Voting in favor of the measure were Senators  Calderon
(916-327-8315), Haynes  (916-445-9781), Lockyer  (916-445-6671),
Wright (916-445-8873), and  Leslie (916-445-5788).  Please let
them know we appreciate their support and be sure to contact your
state senators and encourage them to vote YES on SB 517! 

SB 500 (POLANCO):  Also on May 6, the Senate Public Safety
Committee approved this measure,  which would ban affordable
handguns, commonly used for self defense.  Senator Bruce
McPherson , who in the past has been generally supportive of
firearm owners' rights,  voted in for SB 500.  The bill now moves
to the Senate Appropriations Committee.

SB 513 (HAYDEN):  Surprisingly, the same committee defeated this
sweeping anti-gun bill which would have banned the sale of high
capacity magazines, limited the purchase of handguns to no more
than one in a thirty day period, and raised the penalty for
concealed carry without a permit. The proposal was granted
reconsideration and could be voted on in January of next year. 
Senator McPherson, in addition to supporting SB 500, also voted
for SB 513.  The strongest opposition came from Senator John
Vasconcellos.  Please contact Senator Vasconsellos at (916-
445-9740) and thank him for defending our rights.

SB 643 (POLANCO): Another bill which would repeal state firearms
preemption, SB 643 will be heard by the Senate Public Safety
Committee on Tuesday, May 13.

SB 146 (JOHNSTON): In addition to SB 643 the Senate Public Safety
Committee will also hear SB 146 on Tuesday, May 13. This bill
would limit police chiefs in their ability to issue concealed
carry permits. Please contact members of the Senate Public Safety
Committee and urge them to oppose these measures!

AB 1107 (ORTIZ): On Tuesday, May 7, a bill which would
essentially ban gun shows on state property, was placed on
suspense by the Assembly Appropriations Committee due to fiscal
considerations.
  
On Wednesday, May 14, the Assembly Appropriations Committee will
consider several anti-gun proposals:

AB 131 (ORTIZ): A measure which requires that stolen firearms be
reported to law enforcement within 48 hours and attaches a
penalty for failure to comply.

AB 304 (SCOTT): A bill which would impose greater restrictions on
carrying a firearm concealed.

AB 488 (CALDERA): A measure seeking to ban so called "Saturday
Night Specials".

AB 491 (KEELEY):  This legislation would broaden the scope of 
California's current "criminal storage of a firearm" statute,
relating to the accessibility of firearms, raising the age from
age 14 and under to 18 and under.

Please call the committee members and express your opposition. 
All area codes are (916):
 
Carole Migden (Ch.)           445-8077
Charles Poochigian (V. Ch)    445-2931
Diane Martinez                445-7852
Keith Olberg                  445-8102
Dick Ackerman                 445-7448
Lou Papan                     445-8020
Fred Aguiar                   445-1670
Don Perata                    445-7442
Joe Baca                      445-7454
Kevin Shelley                 445-8253
Tom Bordonaro                 445-7795
Mike Sweeney                  445-8160
Marilyn Brewer                445-7222
Bruce Thompson                445-1676
Tony Cardenas                 445-1616
Helen Thomson                 445-8368
Brett Granlund                445-7552
Antonio Villaraigosa          445-0703
Sheila James Kuehl            445-9456
Carl Washington               445-7486
Mike Machado                  445-7931

AB 988 (PERATA): Legislation seeking to allow shooting victims or
their survivors to bring liability suits against the manufacturer
of the firearm used in the shooting, will also be heard by the
Assembly Judiciary Committee on Wednesday, May 14. Please call
committee members and express your opposition.  All Area codes
are (916):

Martha Escutia (Ch.)          445-8188
Bill Morrow (V.Ch.)           445-7676
Howard Kaloogian              445-2390
Fred Keeley                   445-8496
Barbara Alby                  445-4445
Sheila James Kuehl            445-4956
Dion Aroner                   445-7554
Tom McClintock                445-8366
Scott Baugh                   445-6233
Deborah Ortiz                 445-1611
Louis Caldera                 445-4843
Rod Pacheco                   445-0854
Liz Figueroa                  445-7874
Kevin Shelley                 445-8253
Dick Floyd                    445-3134
Antonio Villaraigosa          445-0703

CASE DISMISSED: In news relating to AB 988, a San Francisco
Superior Court Judge dismissed a civil liability suit on Tuesday
against Navegar, a Florida gun manufacturer. According to Judge
James Warren, the plaintiffs in the suit, victims and survivors
of  those killed in a 1993 shooting, failed to put together a
viable case.   The company will not be held responsible for the
injuries, caused during a violent act, and will not be required
to pay for them.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.960FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue May 13 1997 13:2029
May 12, 1997

        "SAFE, not Sorry" NOW AVAILABLE FOR SALE ON-LINE!

"SAFE, not Sorry", the new self-protection manual by Mrs. Tanya
K. Metaksa, chief lobbyist and Executive Director of NRA's
Institute for Legislative Action, may now be ordered on-line via
NRA's homepage on the Internet and Amazon.com!

As NRA's chief lobbyist, Tanya's primary responsibility is to
protect the Second Amendment and the inalienable right to self-
defense.  As the creator of NRA's Refuse To Be A Victim program,
she has written "SAFE, not Sorry" to be a comprehensive, easy-
to-follow guide on how to make your right to self-defense work for
you. 

To order YOUR copy of "SAFE, not Sorry," visit NRA's homepage on
the World Wide Web at http://www.nra.org where you will find a
link to a "SAFE, not Sorry" order form at Amazon.com.  Please be
sure to place your order through NRA.org so that NRA's Institute
can receive a special commission on the sale.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.961FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue May 13 1997 13:2034
May 12, 1997

LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK

        MEET TANYA K. METAKSA, NRA-ILA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
         & GET YOUR AUTOGRAPHED COPY OF "SAFE, not Sorry"

Dear NRA Member:

On Tuesday, May 13, I will be on Long Island to meet and speak
with members like yourself and to sign copies of my new book on
self-protection -- SAFE, not Sorry.  As the Executive Director of
NRA's Institute for Legislative Action, my primary responsibility
is to protect the Second Amendment and the inalienable right to
self-defense.  As the creator of NRA's Refuse To Be A Victim 
program, I have written SAFE, not Sorry to be a comprehensive,
easy-to-follow guide on how to make your right to self-defense
work for you.

I will be signing copies of SAFE, not Sorry at the Barnes & Noble
bookstore at 910 Old Country Road, Carle Place, NY starting at
7:30pm on Tuesday, May 13, 1997.  Please call Barnes & Noble at
(516)741-9850 for directions.  For information on my other SAFE,
not Sorry book tour locations, please call 1-800-392-8683.  I
hope to see you there!

Tanya K. Metaksa

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.962FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 18 1997 14:4647
May 13, 1997

ALASKA

Right To Carry

On Saturday night, May 10, the House passed SB 141, NRA-backed
right to carry reform legislation by a vote of 31-8.  On Sunday,
May 11, the Senate concurred with the House amendments by a 14-5
vote and the bill is on its way to the Governor's desk.

SB 141 makes the following improvements to the state's current
right to carry system.
  
     1)  Recognizes out-of-state carry permit holders whose home
         state has similar issuance criteria to that of Alaska's
     2)  Reduces Initial fee from $125 to $99, Renewals fees from
         $60 to $30
     3)  Requires issuance of permit within 30 days of
         application
     4)  Rolls back restrictions on where permitees can lawfully
         carry (including restaurants where alcoholic beverages are
         served)
     5)  Rolls back certain qualifying standards 
     6)  Deletes requirement for safety course/competency on
         renewal
     7)  Allows permitees to carry "derringers" and "miniature
         handguns"
     8)  Reduces the 1 year residence requirement to 90 days
         prior to applying for a permit.

Please contact Governor Knowles at (907) 465-3500 or by fax at
(907) 465-3532 fax and urge him to sign SB 141 into law.

Range Protection

Good News!  Alaska joins 19th other states with a law protecting
sport shooting ranges against noise ordinances or nuisance
actions aimed at shutting them down.  NRA-supported Range
Protection became law on 5/7/97.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.963FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 18 1997 14:4616
May 13, 1997

TENNESSEE

FULL HOUSE TO VOTE ON HB 1055 (Buck).  HB 1055, right to carry
reform legislation, is scheduled to be heard by the House of
Representatives for a floor vote on WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 1997. 
Please call your representative at (800) 449-8366 and urge him or
her to support HB 1055.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.964FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 18 1997 14:46103
May 13, 1997

COLORADO

Dear Friend,

     I am writing on behalf of Mary Anne Bradfield, NRA-ILA's
Colorado Liaison.  I feel the need to write this letter to
explain the circumstances surrounding the so-called Vermont-style
"right to carry" legislation introduced during this session.

     At the outset, I want to make one thing crystal clear: NRA
supports the right of all law-abiding citizens to carry a firearm
for self-defense.  We have worked tirelessly at every level of
government, particularly in our nation's state capitols, to
ensure that this fundamental freedom is preserved.  We have
fought, often with little or no support from other members of the
pro-gun community, to gain passage of "right to carry" laws in 31
states across our nation.  In short, we have earned our
reputation as the "citizens' self-defense lobby."

     These victories did not come easily.  It was only through
the skill of our liaisons, such as Mary Anne Bradfield, and the
hard work of the entire NRA team, including our members like you
at the grassroots level, that we were able to achieve these
accomplishments.  It was only through our knowledge of the
legislative and political processes that we have been able to do
what none of our opponents, and only a few of our staunchest
supporters, thought possible - make "right to carry" the rule,
not the exception.

     Naturally, everyone at NRA headquarters was ecstatic when,
during this session of the legislature, lawmakers in Colorado
were on the verge of doing something they had never done before -
passing "right to carry" legislation and sending it to the
Governor's desk.  We all knew that Mary Anne had made a
substantial commitment of time and resources to help shepherd
this critical legislation through the difficult legislative
process.  After all, while the members of the House had
traditionally been receptive to "right to carry" in the past, the
Senate had always been the place where these bills went to die.  

     This year, however, things had been different.  The Senate
actually approved "right to carry" legislation first, and all
that was left for us to do was gain its passage in the much more
friendly House of Representatives.  But then, as the clock wound
down on the session, the so-called "Vermont-style" legislation
reared its head.  Supporters of this approach to "right-to-carry"
indicated to Ms. Bradfield that they would attempt to amend the
Senate-passed version of the "right to carry" bill by gutting its
substance and replacing it with "Vermont-style" language.

     Now, I think it is safe to say that everyone in the pro-gun
community looks forward to the day when all law-abiding citizens
can exercise their right to self-defense without first obtaining
a permit.  But we must also recognize that such a day has not yet
arrived.  Ms. Bradfield realized this, and she also realized that
amending the carry bill in any way would have severely limited
its chances for final passage in the Senate.  More importantly,
she knew that sending it back to the Senate with "Vermont-style"
language would have killed it, no doubt about it.  

     Although she realized the very real danger this amendment
posed to SB 97-96 and the issue of "right to carry" in Colorado,
Ms. Bradfield did not threaten its supporters, as has been
alleged.  Instead, she simply urged them to leave the existing
"right to carry" legislation alone, and to offer their "Vermont-
style" bill as a separate, stand-alone piece of legislation,
which NRA would endorse along with SB 97-96.  After all, if
"Vermont-style" had the support in Denver that its backers
claimed it did, than introducing a separate bill should have been
no problem.  But perhaps they already knew what we had been
saying all along - that this kind of legislation simply had no
chance whatsoever of making it to Governor Romer's desk.  In
fact, the only thing this amendment would have accomplished would
have been to give those legislators with any doubts at all about
"right to carry" a very convenient excuse to oppose it.  

     NRA unequivocally supports the right to self-defense, the
primary civil right.  We believe law-abiding citizens should be
able to exercise this right as easily as possible.  But we must
face the simple fact that many people in Colorado today have no
right to carry at all, and we must do all we can to secure this
fundamental freedom.  SB 97-96 did just that.  NRA supporters in
the legislature who desired to pass a "right to carry" bill
warned us that any amendments to SB 97-96 would doom its passage
in either house.  As of the date of this letter, the fate of 
SB 97-96 is in the hands of Governor Romer.  We hope you will
join with thousands of Coloradans in urging Governor Romer to
sign this life saving bill.  His toll-free telephone number is 
1-800-283-7215, or you may also reach him at (303) 866-2471. 

Sincerely,

Tanya K. Metaksa, Executive Director
NRA Institute for Legislative Action

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.965FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 18 1997 14:4628
May 14, 1997

SOUTH CAROLINA

     Today, May 14, the full House unanimously passed HB 3715,
NRA-supported shooting range protection legislation.  HB 3715
will protect shooting range facilities against noise ordinances
or nuisance actions aimed at shutting them down.  The bill now
moves to the Senate for consideration.  Members are encouraged to
contact their State Senators and urge them to support HB 3715
when it comes before them.

OHIO

     Today, May 14, the full House by a vote of 82-12 passed HB
209, NRA-supported shooting range protection legislation.  HB 209
will protect shooting range facilities against noise ordinances
or nuisance actions aimed at shutting them down.  The bill now
moves to the Senate for consideration.  Members are encouraged to
contact their State Senators and urge them to support HB 209 when
it comes before them.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.966FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 18 1997 14:46134
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly
 
             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No. 19                                       May 13, 1997

Juvenile Crime Bill Clears House; Clinton/Gore Oppose

     The House of Representatives passed sweeping Republican-
sponsored juvenile justice legislation last Thursday that would
offer $1.5 billion in federal grants over three years to states
that adopt guidelines for trying juvenile offenders age 15 and
older as adults when they are charged with violent crimes like
murder, rape, robbery and aggravated assault.

     Sponsored by Rep. Bill McCollum, R-FL, H.R. 3 passed by a
286-132 vote after two days of sometimes rancorous debate.  In
addition to providing anti-crime assistance to states, the bill
would:

     * Fight juvenile gangs by increasing the federal penalty
     from 1 to 5 years in prison for adults who sell or give guns
     to kids;

     * Establish a mandatory federal penalty of 3-10 years in
     prison for any adult who provides a juvenile with a gun if
     the gun is used in crime;

     * Create a federal ban on gun ownership by adults who, as
     juveniles, were convicted of a serious violent felony; and

     * Allow the Attorney General to try juveniles, some as young
     as 13, who are charged with federal violent crimes or with
     possessing, using or carrying a gun in violation of the
     federal Gun Control Act to be tried as adults in federal
     district court, where they would face stiff, often mandatory
     penalties.

     McCollum, who chairs the House Judiciary Committee's crime
subcommittee,  told critics that he would offer legislation later
to address juvenile crime prevention.  A Democrat-sponsored bill
that allocated 60% of its $1.5 billion to "prevention" revived
the "midnight basketball and arts and crafts for criminals"
debate that at one point torpedoed President Clinton's 1994
omnibus crime bill.  This proposal was defeated before H.R.3 was
adopted.

'3 Strikes' Gets Repeat Rapist Life

     "That law was designed for predators just like Mr. Scherf,"
said a Spokane, Wash., judge as he sent a man who abducted and
raped a real estate agent to prison for life without the
possibility of parole under Washington's pioneering "Three
Strikes and You're Out" law on Friday.

     The criminal, Byron Scherf, 48, was convicted in March of
the 1995 attack on the agent.  She was showing him an unoccupied
home near Cheney when he attacked and abducted her.  Later, he
raped her, threatening to kill her if she told.

     The rape victim addressed the court as Superior Court Judge
Neal Q. Reilly gave Scherf the sentence required under the "Three
Strikes" law adopted by Washington voters in 1993.  Scherf  had 
another rape conviction in 1981, where he doused the victim with
gasoline and set her afire.  Despite a life sentence and a prior
assault conviction, he had been paroled in 1992 for "good
behavior," Associated Press reported.

Credit For Parole 'Street Time' Nixed By D.C. Appeals Court

     District of Columbia criminals who violate parole won't
receive credit against their sentences for their "street time"
while out on parole under a District Court of Appeals ruling,
reports Legal Times.

     The 2-1 decision will mean longer sentences for thousands of
inmates and could even require that some former inmates be
returned to prison, Legal Times said May 5.

     The D.C. Board of Parole's 10-year-old practice of giving
parolees credit for street time was overturned in U.S. Parole
Commission v. Matthew Noble on April 17, as much as a third of
the city's prison population.

     The action was brought by the U.S. Parole Commission, which
argued that D.C. residents were put at risk because of the
practice of deducting "street time" from prison time to determine
eligibility for final release.

     The subject of the court ruling, Matthew Noble, came under
the U.S. Parole Commission's authority because he had been
transferred to the federal prison system due to city prison
overcrowding.   The public defender's office precipitated the
suit when it filed a writ of habeas corpus over the parole
commission's denial of 1,479 days Noble had served free on parole
for his last conviction.

D.C. Voters Reconsider Death Penalty

     Despite the chilly reception Washington, D.C., council
members gave a death penalty law for cop killers proposed by
Mayor Marion Barry two weeks ago, a majority of District
residents support capital punishment, according to a Washington
Post poll.

     "The support [for the death penalty] is particularly
pronounced among black Washingtonians, who back the death penalty
for police killers by a 2 to 1 ratio and are more likely than
white people to favor the death penalty for other crimes," the
newspaper said of the poll results.

     Among black voters, fully 64% favored the death penalty for
cop killers, and 55% for killers in general. On a citywide basis,
pollsters found 59% support for the penalty for cop killers, 52%
in favor of the penalty in general.

     Just 43% of whites support the death penalty, a figure that
increases to 48% when it targets only those who convicted of
killing a police officer. 

                 A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
      Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.967FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 18 1997 14:4644
May 15, 1997

The following is a letter from NRA First Vice-President Charlton
Heston to NRA Board Member Colonel Bob Brown.

================================================================

                           May 12, 1997

Dear Colonel Brown,

Thank you for asking me for a clarification of my comments in an
interview on KGO radio.  When I spoke of AK-47 firearms on May
6th, I was talking about the Soviet military rifle -- a fully-
automatic, not a semiautomatic, firearm -- and what I thought was
common knowledge.  Namely, that federal law has strictly
regulated the private ownership of such fully automatic firearms
for 63 years.

I didn't favor a cap put on this procedure in 1986 by the United
States Congress because no legally owned fully-automatic firearm
has ever been used in a crime.

Regrettably, the distinction between classes of firearms is still
not understood thanks to the distortions spread by the media and
those who'd destroy the Second Amendment.

That's why I lobbied against the Clinton gun ban as a private
citizen in 1994, and that is why I'll be honored to continue
defending the Second Amendment as First Vice President of the
National Rifle Association.

Sincerely,

(Signed)

Charlton Heston

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.968FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 18 1997 14:47381
                          NRA GRASSFIRE!

          The Official Newsletter for NRA-ILA Volunteers

June, 1997                                         Vol. 3., No. 6

NRA GRAPPLES WITH GLOBAL GUN GRABBERS

   A recent New York Times story noted NRA's continued efforts to
protect the rights of law-abiding gun owners in the international
arena.  Evidence of a concerted international anti-gun effort is
not difficult to find: the United Nations General Assembly
ordered a panel to investigate ways to control the flow of small
arms in 1995, and that same year the U.N. Commission on Crime
Prevention formed an "experts' group" on firearms controls whose
recommendations were scheduled to be considered by the Commission
in May.  (At press time, these recommendations hadn't been
completed.)

   To monitor these international threats, NRA-ILA obtained
Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status at the UN last year. 
NGO status will allow us to stay abreast of these developments
and speak out before UN bodies on behalf of American gun owners. 
NRA also joined last month with more than a dozen firearms groups
from five continents to form a "World Forum on the Future of
Sport Shooting Activities" so that gun owners can share
information worldwide.  When asked about NRA's efforts abroad,
Michael Beard -- president of a group working to ban the
possession and sale of all handguns -- said,  "It's a logical
response, because the entire world is questioning the role of
firearms in society now, and particularly looking at the United
States." 

   Meanwhile Down Under, Australian gun clubs report membership
is booming -- due to anti-gun legislation forcing shooters to
show a "genuine need" to own firearms. And according to a story
in Australia's Advertiser, national membership in the Sporting
Shooters Association of Australia -- the NRA's counterpart Down
Under -- has risen 50% in the past 10 months as shooters realize
the need to unify against further anti-gun hysteria.

TRAFFICKING IN FALSEHOODS

   Two of the nation's most vocal anti-gunners, Rep. Charles
Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) recently teamed up
to promote their latest anti-gun concoction, "The Gun Kingpin
Penalty Act of 1997."  The proposal would impose a new federal
penalty on individuals who transport five or more guns across
state lines in the course of a year to transfer them to
non-licensed individuals.  The bill calls for an additional 200
Treasury Department officers to enforce this law.  Of course,
there are already ample laws on the books to deal with illegal
gun running -- a fact Schumer and Durbin blatantly ignore as they
try to falsely paint NRA and law-abiding gun owners as friends of
criminal gun dealers.  For example, since 1968, it's been illegal
for anyone to transfer a handgun to an individual who does not
reside in the same state.  Conversely, one may only buy a handgun
from a dealer within his legal state of residence.  Violation of
this law -- up to five years in jail per gun.  Also, since 1968,
it's been a federal crime to transfer a firearm to anyone who is
a known criminal or someone who the seller knows will commit a
crime with the gun.  The penalty for violation of this statute --
up to 10 years.  As is par for the course for the Clinton/Gore
Administration, existing federal laws are not being enforced, and
we've seen numerous examples of criminals not being charged for
this particular crime or receiving sentences of only a fraction
of what the law requires.  Not surprisingly, Schumer draws most
of his conclusions from trace data furnished by BATF, that BATF
itself and the Congressional Research Service have concluded does
"not constitute a random sample [of guns and] data from the
tracing system may not be appropriate for drawing inferences such
as which makes or models of firearms are used for illicit
purposes."  One final interesting note, in Schumer's "gun
trafficking  report," South Carolina is continuously cited as a
top source for illegal guns.  Yet, since 1975, that state has had
its own "one gun a month" law that its supporters specifically
claimed would curb illegal gun running.  Go figure!

FBI FOIBLES

   It has been almost five years since the deadly 1992 standoff
in Ruby Ridge, Idaho.  Two series of Congressional hearings have
taken place, lawsuits have been filed, and the U.S. Government
even made a multi-million dollar settlement with some of the
victims.  Yet, recently, The Washington Post reported that
prosecutors close to the investigation have serious concerns
about a cover-up among federal agents with information about the
shootout.  U.S. District Judge Ricardo Urbina has been asked by
investigators to help with what the Post describes as
"recalcitrant law enforcement witnesses" who do not seem eager to
shed any light on the continuing Ruby Ridge probe.   

   Additionally, the FBI has recently been criticized on a number
of fronts.  As cited in a memorandum from FBI Director Louis
Freeh and reported in The New York Times,  the Department of
Justice has concluded that FBI agents made "a major error in
judgement" last July when they used deceptive tactics in an
effort to persuade Richard Jewell to waive his constitutional
rights in an interview about the bombing at Centennial Olympic
Park in Atlanta.  Amazingly, it has been admitted that agents
tricked Mr. Jewell into talking about the case by telling him
they wanted his help in making a training film about bomb
detection, when in fact they were probing for incriminating
evidence against him.  These revelations resurfaced at the same
time as renewed criticisms of the Bureau's vaunted crime
laboratory's apparent mishandling of evidence.       

   These events, taken separately or together, highlight why NRA
first launched its campaign to investigate and correct apparent
abuses by certain individuals within the federal law enforcement
community.  Congressional hearings in 1995 and subsequent reports
confirmed many of our suspicions about poor judgement and abuse
by government officials, and provided Congress and the American
people with new and important information.  Many important
questions, however, remain unanswered, and doubts still linger as
to whether any real reforms have been taken to prevent such
debacles in the future.

   Last year, we thought we had seen the culmination of our
efforts as Congress prepared to approve our long sought
establishment of an independent blue ribbon law enforcement
commission, that would review these practices and make
recommendations on how these problems could be corrected. 
Unfortunately, in the waning moments of the 104th Congress last
year, funding for this commission was stripped.  Now, more than
ever, the American people deserve to have their concerns
addressed.  At press time, the House Appropriations Committee was
preparing to take action on the commission.
     
FOP FILES SUIT

   The Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) has filed suit challenging
the Lautenberg amendment.  This law, passed in September 1996,
prohibits possession of firearms by individuals convicted of
certain misdemeanors -- specifically, what the law defines as a
"misdemeanor crime of domestic violence."  Despite our efforts to
defeat this misguided proposal last year, the law went into
effect on September 30, 1996.  The Fraternal Order of Police, a
group which has supported the Clinton/Gore "gun control" team, is
somewhat miffed by this particular law.  Under the Lautenberg
amendment, no one -- even law enforcement officers -- is
exempted.  What's more, this law is being enforced retroactively
such that individuals convicted of one of these misdemeanors 10,
20, or even 30 years ago are now being told they cannot own or
possess firearms.  Clearly, this has grave ramifications for the
men and women in blue who are subject to this law, as they can't
possess firearms even in their official capacities as law
enforcement officers.

   NRA, who has worked with FOP to shift their attention from gun
control to criminal control, has filed an amicus curiae brief in
support of the principles behind FOP's actions.  The suit has
been filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of
Columbia, and we are currently awaiting the court's decision.

   While we do not support simply exempting the law enforcement
community from the Lautenberg amendment, this suit is consistent
with our goal of repealing the Lautenberg amendment. 
Additionally on this front, two NRA-supported bills are currently
pending in the U.S. House of Representatives that we help will
achieve this end.  The first bill, H.R. 26, sponsored by Rep. Bob
Barr (R-Ga.), seeks to end the retroactive enforcement of this
law and has already had a hearing in the House Judiciary
Committee.  H.R. 1009, introduced by Rep. Helen Chenoweth
(R-Id.), calls for the law's outright repeal.  Members are
encouraged to call their U.S. Representative at 202/224-3121 in
support of these measures.

TIME TO CHANGE THE CONSTITUTION?

..According to New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani (R) it is. 
Speaking at a vigil commemorating victims of violence, Giuliani
stated, "We need to do a better job of controlling people' s
behavior."  The Mayor went on to acknowledge the argument against
gun control based upon the inclusion of the Second Amendment in
the U.S. Constitution.  However, Mr. Giuliani concluded his
remarks noting, "We have to change the Constitution."

"HATCHING" A PREDICTION

   The Salt Lake Tribune reported some encouraging words from the
Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee.  Sen. Orrin Hatch
(R-Ut.) predicted that the Brady Act will be struck down as
unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.  As you may recall, the
Supreme Court heard arguments in December on whether the
"background check" provision of the Brady Act was constitutional. 
A group of local law enforcement officers, with the support of
the NRA, agreed that the federal government cannot commandeer
local and state law enforcement officials to carry out a
federally-mandated background check.  In discussing the case,
Hatch noted, "The Brady Act was designed to fail.  [It] will be
held unconstitutional." At press time, the Court hadn't ruled on
this case, but is expected to do so shortly.

NO NONSENSE IN NO. CAROLINA

   The Raleigh News & Observer highlighted a State Bureau of
Investigation report that showed not one of the guns carried by
the 20,082 Right to Carry permit holders has been used to commit
a crime.  Lisa Price, Executive Director of North Carolinians
Against Gun Violence and wife of anti-gun Representative David
Price (D-N.C.), was quoted as saying, "I still think it's bad
legislation, although it doesn't seem to have turned out as bad
as we thought it would be."  Well, she's half right!  Meanwhile,
North Carolina observed its first-ever Eddie Eagle Gun Safety
Week in April, as the state legislature and Governor Hunt honored
NRA's award-winning child safety program -- yet another way North
Carolinians have shown common sense on the gun issue.   

A MUST READ

   NRA-ILA Executive Director Tanya Metaksa has published a book
on how women can make their right to self-defense work for them. 
Safe, Not Sorry is now available at bookstores.  If your local
bookstore isn't carrying Safe, Not Sorry, urge them to call
HarperCollins to place its order. Mrs. Metaksa hit the road in
May to promote Safe, Not Sorry, and her book tour continues this
month.  For a listing of her book tour dates, please call the
NRA-ILA Grassroots Division at 1-800-392-8683.  All royalties
from Safe, Not Sorry will go to NRA-ILA

1996 NRA-ILA VOLUNTEER AWARDS PRESENTED

   The 1996 NRA-ILA Volunteer Awards were presented in
conjunction with our Annual Meetings in Seattle last month.  Each
year, NRA-ILA recognizes its most outstanding volunteers and
volunteer organizations, and as usual, we received a number
qualified nominations for this meritorious honor.  With 1996
being such an active year, this choice was made even more
difficult, but here are the year's winners:  NRA-ILA Volunteers
of the Year - George Dovel of Idaho and Hayden Heal of
California.  NRA-ILA Volunteer Organization of the Year - Gun
Owners of South Carolina (GOSC).

   George Dovel was instrumental in coordinating successful
grassroots and fundraising campaigns in 1996 to re-elect Senator
Larry Craig (R) and Representative Helen Chenoweth (R).  He also
played a pivotal role in defeating a critical anti-hunting
initiative, and alerted Idaho gun owners to former Texas Gov. Ann
Richards' (D) "surprise" trip to Idaho to campaign for
Representative Chenoweth's opponent.  Hayden Heal is a longtime
California activist who, in addition to doing outstanding work in
the legislative and political arenas and representing NRA in the
media, was instrumental in coordinating a statewide election tour
of California for NRA-ILA Executive Director Tanya Metaksa.
Finally, GOSC led the efforts last year for passage of the
state's historic right to carry law, conducting in-depth
mailings, polling, and sending fax, e-mail, and phone-tree alerts
that resulted in packed hearings and ultimate passage of this
bill. Also, it was GOSC who coordinated gun owners' election
efforts at the state and federal levels across the state. 
Clearly, the accomplishments of these individuals and GOSC are
too extensive too list, however, we can assure you that these
awards are well deserved.

VOLUNTEER TIP OF THE MONTH -- Action in Akron

   As reported in recent editions of "NRA Grassfire," NRA-ILA's
Grassroots Division wants to hear from our members when an issue
of concern to gun owners crops up.  Many of our most effective
ideas, strategies, and programs come from our members, and we
have recently received submissions from a number of you.  

   We also like to make special note when an NRA member provides
us with a particularly helpful tip, not only to recognize the
valued member who helped us, but also to share with everyone
successful experiences that can be helpful in each community. 
This month, our hat's off to NRA-ILA Volunteer Ray Caldwell of
Akron, Ohio, for his help in effectively promoting safe firearms
ownership in his local media.  By alerting NRA-ILA about the
Akron-Beacon Journal's informal readership survey on federal
trigger-lock legislation, Mr. Caldwell's quick assistance helped
us provide Akron-area members with the information they needed to
contact the paper. 

   The result was an overwhelming response from the gun-owning
community.  The Beacon Journal published 11
letters-to-the-editor, eight of which were against restrictive,
ineffective trigger-lock legislation!  NRA's award-winning Eddie
Eagle was mentioned more than once, and most letters focused on
the need for self-defense in the home.  Thanks again for the
help, Mr. Caldwell, and keep the ideas and tips coming!   Mr.
Caldwell, like all other members who submit suggestions that are
published,  will receive of a complementary NRA-ILA baseball cap
for his efforts.

THE CONSTITUTION ON CAMPUS 

   Wednesday, April 16th, was designated as "Constitution Day" on
nearly 800 college campuses throughout the United States.  Part
of the first-ever "Coming Out Conservative" week being
orchestrated by the College Republican National Committee,
student activists placed special emphasis on the Second
Amendment, holding meetings and distributing educational material
promoting the values of the U.S. Constitution.  Relatedly, NRA
continues to organize on college campuses.  Currently, we are
working with students in Texas to promote our freedoms.  A number
of pro-Second Amendment groups have surfaced on colleges and
universities in the "Lone Star" state with others going through
the filing process.  NRA-ILA will provide logistical and other
support for these groups in the hopes of getting the pro-freedom
message out to America's youth.  For more information on these
groups or NRA-ILA's exciting college program (and it's not just
for conservatives!) call Glen Caroline in the Grassroots Division
at 1-800-392-8683.

SMOKING "GUN"

   In April, ABC premiered a new series entitled "Gun."  Not
classified as a drama, but surely not a comedy either, the
program is directed by Robert Altman  (of "M*A*S*H" fame), and
stars a nickel-plated 1911 Colt that changes hands each week,
thus giving viewers a new, weekly story line.  The show's
co-producer noted this particular gun was chosen for its
"photogenic" qualities.   Although Altman is an outspoken
advocate of "gun control" (as are many of the show's co-stars),
he insists "'Gun' isn't a political show and reflects no personal
agenda." A TV Guide review of the show prior to its airing saw
the show somewhat differently, however, saying Altman is "out to
mock" what the reviewer labeled, "our dangerous fascination with
use of man's deadliest inventions..."  Some of Hollywood's
headlining names have been lined up for the show, including 
Martin Sheen, Randy Quaid, Sally Kellerman, and Carrie Fisher. 
While the premiere steered clear of bashing the NRA and
law-abiding gun owners, the reckless nature with which leading
man Daniel Stern ("City Slickers") handled the Colt grossly
mischaracterized how responsible the vast majority of gun owners
are with their firearms.  Members are encouraged to monitor the
series for any anti-Second Amendment bias, and to see if Altman's
"Gun" highlights even one of the more than two million annual
defensive uses of a firearm.  Keep in mind that ABC is owned by
Michael Eisner's Disney Co. --  longtime leaders in Hollywood's
love-fest with the gun control movement.  You may voice your
views on "Gun" by contacting ABC at 77 West 66th Street, New
York, NY, 10023, 212/456-7777, e-mail:abc@aol.com. 

AN ANTI-GUN STAR IS BORN

   Anti-gun Representative Carolyn McCarthy (D-N.Y.) will be the
subject of a TV movie.  McCarthy, who tragically lost her husband
and whose son was gravely wounded during the 1993 Long Island
Railroad massacre, won election to Congress in 1996 as a
single-issue candidate focusing on gun control.  While at first
Rep. McCarthy was reluctant to endorse the idea of a prime time
television movie, she eventually acquiesced to the request.  The
film will be produced by Clinton/Gore backer Barbara Streisand's
movie company, Barwood films, and Columbia Tristar Television. 
The movie is tentatively scheduled to air during the 1997-98
season on NBC.  The financial details of the film deal have not
been released, but Rep. McCarthy said proceeds would go into a
trust fund for her son.

CHICAGO BLUE

   The Chicago Tribune reported on three Chicago police officers
who have been removed from their duties for allegedly coercing
criminal suspects into providing them with illegal firearms.  The
story notes one apparent motive for this action is the
department's increasing pressure on its officers to remove guns
from the street.  In January, Chicago police boasted they'd
confiscated more firearms than any other big city department in
the nation.  An Internal Affairs investigation had discovered
that the officers allowed people who possessed illegal drugs to
remain free as long as they could produce firearms for the
officers.  Of course, this procedure, known as "flipping drugs
for guns," runs contrary to department policy because no one gets
arrested, only firearms are seized.  In this case, the firearms
received by the three officers were not promptly inventoried, but
rather, were found in the police station locker of one of the
suspected officers.

Permission to reprint all or portions of this publication
granted, duly noting "NRA Grassfire, June, 1997."  c. 1997, NRA
Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, Virginia  22030.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.969FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 18 1997 14:4734
May 16, 1997

DETROIT, MICHIGAN

        MEET TANYA K. METAKSA, NRA-ILA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
         & GET YOUR AUTOGRAPHED COPY OF "SAFE, not Sorry"

Dear NRA Member:

On Monday, May 19, I will be in the Detroit area to meet and
speak with members like yourself and to sign copies of my new
book on self-protection -- SAFE, not Sorry.  As the Executive
Director of NRA's Institute for Legislative Action, my primary
responsibility is to protect the Second Amendment and the
inalienable right to self-defense.  As the creator of NRA's
Refuse To Be A Victim  program, I have written SAFE, not Sorry to
be a comprehensive, easy-to-follow guide on how to make your
right to self-defense work for you.

I will be signing copies of SAFE, not Sorry at the Borders Books
bookstore at 45290 Utica Park Blvd, Utica starting at 7:30pm on
Monday, May 19, 1997.  Please call Borders Books at (810)726-8555
for directions.  For information on my other SAFE, not Sorry book
tour locations, please call 1-800-392-8683.  I hope to see you
there!

Tanya K. Metaksa

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.970FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 18 1997 14:47213
May 16, 1997

State Legislative Updates For CA, CO, IN, IA, NJ, OH, SC, TN & TX

CALIFORNIA

As we predicted last week, things are beginning to heat up in
Sacramento.  Your calls and letters are more important than ever.

IN THE ASSEMBLY:  Currently pending on the floor are AB 136
(Villaraigosa) and AB 247 (Scott), both of which would repeal
California's state firearms preemption statute.  Also to be
considered by the Assembly are AB 304 (Scott) which would impose
further restrictions on carrying a concealed firearm and AB 491
(Keeley) which seeks to broaden the scope of California's
"criminal storage of a firearm" statute.  The two bills passed
out of the Assembly Appropriations Committee earlier this week. 
Please contact your Assembly Member and express your opposition.

COMMITTEE HEARINGS SET:  On Wednesday May 21 the Assembly
Appropriations Committee will consider AB 488 (Caldera), a
measure which would ban affordable handguns, commonly used for
self-defense, and AB 532 (Knox) , which would limit handgun
purchases to one per month.  Also on their agenda is AB
131(Ortiz), a bill which requires stolen firearms to be reported 
to law enforcement within 48 hours and attaches a penalty for
failure to comply.  The proposal was defeated by four votes this
week but was granted reconsideration.  Please call the committee
members and urge them to oppose these measures.  All area codes
are (916):

Carole Migden (Ch.)                445-8077
Charles Poochigian (V. Ch)         445-2931
Diane Martinez                     445-7852
Keith Olberg                       445-8102
Dick Ackerman                      445-7448
Lou Papan                          445-8020
Fred Aguiar                        445-1670
Don Perata                         445-7442
Joe Baca                           445-7454
Kevin Shelley                      445-8253
Tom Bordonaro                      445-7795
Mike Sweeney                       445-8160
Marilyn Brewer                     445-7222
Bruce Thompson                     445-1676
Tony Cardenas                      445-1616
Helen Thomson                      445-8368
Brett Granlund                     445-7552
Antonio Villaraigosa               445-0703
Sheila James Kuehl                 445-9456
Carl Washington                    445-7486
Mike Machado                       445-7931

ON THE SENATE SIDE:  This week the  Senate Public Safety
Committee approved SB 643 (Polanco), another attempt to overturn
the state firearms preemption statute, and SB 146 (Johnston)
which would limit police chiefs in their ability to issue
concealed carry permits.  They now head to the Senate floor for
consideration.  Also, SB 513 (Hayden)  a "one gun per month"
bill, was approved on a reconsideration vote and now moves
directly to the Senate floor.

COMING UP:  On May 19 the Senate Appropriations Committee will
hear SB 500 (Polanco), which seeks to ban so  called "Saturday
Night Specials", and SB 1339 (Calderon), which would ban certain
high capacity magazines. Please call the committee members and
express your opposition.  All area codes are (916):

John Vasconcellos (Ch.)            445-9740  
Richard Rainey (V.Ch.)             445-6083
Bruce McPherson                    445-5843
Richard Polanco                    445-3456
John Burton                        445-1412
Adam Schiff                        445-5976
Quentin Kopp                       445-0503
Diane Watson                       445-5215

The deadline for all Senate and Assembly bills to clear their
respective chambers of origin is June 6, so stand by for a couple
of action packed weeks.

SENATOR BOXER, ASSEMBLYMAN SCOTT TO HOST PRESS CONFERENCE: The
topic of choice, banning so called "Saturday Night Specials" and
their medical and social impact on society.  The conference, will
be held Saturday, May 17, at Huntington Memorial Hospital, at
1:30 pm.  Senator Barbara Boxer and State Assemblyman Jack Scott
will discuss current legislation seeking to outlaw these
affordable firearms used by many law-abiding citizens for self-
defense.  Huntington Memorial Hospital is located at  100 W.
California Boulevard in Pasadena.

COLORADO

Today, Governor Romer ignored the will of the people by vetoing
SB 96, the NRA-backed right to carry reform bill.  Thanks to the
hard work of state activists and NRA-ILA, the bill progressed
further through the process than ever before.  We'll be back in
future legislative sessions again, to push this important public
safety measure.  Members: Please call the governor and express
your disappointment in his vetoing of your right to self-defense.

INDIANA

HB 1669, an NRA-supported measure that included language
establishing an Instant Background Check system of criminal
records at the point of purchase passed the legislature and is
awaiting Governor  O'Bannon's expected signature.  The signing of
HB 1669 will end the 7 working day waiting period on handgun
purchases and defacto registration. The Instant Check system is
to come online in November of 1998. 

IOWA

Good News! Governor Brandstad signed the NRA-supported, Handgun
Deer Hunting bill  into law on Wednesday, May 14. 

NEW JERSEY

A press conference will held on Thursday, May 22 at 10:00 a.m. in
room 109 of the State House to announce the introduction of
Assemblymen Michael Carroll (R/25) and Scott Garrett (R/24)
"Right to Carry" bill.  Joining them will be State Senator
Cardinale (R/39), who has introduced a similar "Right to Carry"
bill, now pending in the Senate.  Members: Please plan to attend
Thursday's press conference.  

OHIO

Earlier this week, HB 209, the NRA-backed shooting range
protection bill passed the House by a vote of 80 to 15.  The bill
now moves to the Senate for consideration.  Additionally, HB 60,
a measure establishing Sunday hunting is still pending action on
the House floor.  Members: Please contact your State Senators and
Representatives in support of these measures.  

SOUTH CAROLINA

H 3715, NRA-supported range protection has passed the State House
and  now moves to the Senate.  Members: Please call your State
Senators at (803)212-6200 and urge their support for H 3715. 

TENNESSEE

The NRA-backed right to carry reform bill, HB 1055, earlier this
week passed in the House. HB 1055 includes language clearing up
delays with issuance as well as a provision providing for
reciprocity with out of state carry permit holders.  Speaker Jim
Naifeh, Representatives Frank Buck (sponsor), H.E. Bittle and Ben
West deserve a special note of thanks as they were instrumental
in marshaling the passage of HB 1055.  Members: Please contact
your State Senators and urge them to support HB 1055.

TEXAS

This week, the Texas House passed HB 2909, NRA-backed right to
carry reform legislation.  Thankfully, attempts by anti-gun
legislators to add weakening amendments to the bill were voted
down.  The Senate Criminal Justice Committee is expected to
consider the bill over the weekend.  HB 2909 makes several
changes to Texas' right to carry law that benefit license
holders. Among those changes are reducing penalties for technical
violations of the law and directing the Department of Public
Safety to negotiate license "reciprocity" agreements with certain
states.

Also, this week, the Senate Jurisprudence Committee voted out HB
601, NRA-backed shooting range protection legislation.  Senators
David Cain, Steve Ogden, Chris Harris and Jeff Wentworth, who
were key members of the Committee voted "Yes" in favor of  HB
601and  Senator Robert Duncan voted "NO".  Please thank those who
supported HB 601, which narrowly passed by a 4-3 vote.  HB 601
protects shooting ranges from certain nuisance actions and local
noise ordinances aimed at shutting them down.  It is critical
that you call the following key State Senators and urge them to
support both HB 2909 and HB 601, and to OPPOSE any weakening
amendments to either bill.  The senate will most likely be in
session on May 17th & 18th, so please be sure to contact these
senators over the weekend at their capitol office number listed
below.  All numbers are in the (512) area code:

Dist.       Senator             Capitol #

1           Bill Ratliff        463-0101       
2           David Cain          463-0102       
3           Drew Nixon          463-0103       
4           Michael Galloway    463-0104       
5           Steve Ogden         463-0105       
7           Jon Lindsay         463-0107       
8           Florence Shapiro    463-0108  
9           Jane Nelson         463-0109  
10          Chris Harris        463-0110       
11          Jerry Patterson     Sponsor   
12          Mike Moncrief       463-0112       
15          John Whitmire       463-0115       
16          John Carona         463-0116  
17          Buster Brown        463-0117  
18          Ken Armbrister      463-0118   
19          Frank Madla, Jr.    463-0119  
21          Judith Zaffirini    463-0121
22          David Sibley        463-0122  
24          Troy Fraser         463-0124  
25          Jeff Wentworth      463-0125  
27          Eddie Lucio         463-0127  
28          Robert Duncan       463-0128  
30          Tom Haywood         463-0130
31          Teel Bivins         463-0131

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.971FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 18 1997 14:4735
May 16, 1997

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

        MEET TANYA K. METAKSA, NRA-ILA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
         & GET YOUR AUTOGRAPHED COPY OF "SAFE, not Sorry"

Dear NRA Member:

On Tuesday, May 20, I will be in the Chicago area to meet and
speak with members like yourself and to sign copies of my new
book on self-protection -- SAFE, not Sorry.  As the Executive
Director of NRA's Institute for Legislative Action, my primary
responsibility is to protect the Second Amendment and the
inalienable right to self-defense.  As the creator of NRA's
Refuse To Be A Victim  program, I have written SAFE, not Sorry to
be a comprehensive, easy-to-follow guide on how to make your
right to self-defense work for you.

On Tuesday, May 20 at 12:00 noon, I will be signing copies of
SAFE, not Sorry at  Crown Books on 105 S. Wabash Ave, Chicago. 
At 7:00pm, I will be at Crown Books at 6557 Grand Ave in Gurnee. 
For directions, please call Crown Books at (312)782-7667 in
Chicago and (847)855-8477 in Gurnee.  For information on my other
SAFE, not Sorry book tour locations, please call 1-800-392-8683. 
See you there!

Tanya K. Metaksa

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.972FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Sun May 18 1997 14:47127
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 20                                            5/16/97

            MANDATORY SENTENCES, NOT MANDATORY STORAGE

     As  reported in last week's FAX Alert, the House passed a
juvenile justice bill that did not contain any trigger-lock
language.  However, as the Senate Judiciary Committee considers
the bill in the coming days, the anti-gunners are again trying to
attach some type of trigger-lock amendment to that legislation. 
The Judiciary Committee could vote on this measure at any time,
so it's critical you contact your U.S. Senators at 202/224-3121
(or 1-800-962-3524 ) and urge them to oppose any trigger-lock
proposal.  (For a list of members of the Senate Judiciary
Committee, contact the Grassroots Division.) Of course, the goal
of any movement in the direction of trigger-locks is to hold
criminally liable firearms owners who don't store their
personally owned guns with a trigger-lock.  In fact, President
Clinton has been urged by Sarah Brady to continue his quest for
mandatory trigger-lock legislation, and he's been more than
willing to accommodate her request.  However, an argument that
seems ludicrous even for the gun ban lobby is their suggestion
that trigger-locks are needed as a component of a juvenile CRIME 
bill.  In a recent radio address, the President referred to the
House juvenile crime bill as "weak on guns," noting, "To me, a
juvenile justice bill that doesn't limit children's access to
guns is a bill that walks away from the problem."  While we know
the inefficacy of trigger-locks as preventative safety measures,
we know with even greater certainty that placing trigger-locks on
firearms is going to have absolutely no effect on the CRIMINAL
MISUSE of guns.  For a copy of the latest mandatory storage fact
sheet (that covers trigger-locks), contact the NRA-ILA Grassroots
Division at 1-800-392-8683.

FUNDING FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT COMMISSION: Last night, the U.S.
House of Representatives unanimously adopted an amendment to the
disaster relief bill calling for $2 million to fund the NRA-
supported law enforcement review commission.  As you'll recall,
in the aftermath of the Ruby Ridge and Waco tragedies, NRA worked
to secure the establishment of an independent, blue-ribbon
commission to review the practices of the federal law enforcement
community and to make recommendations on how to eliminate future
abuses.  In the waning moments of last year's 104th Congress,
funding for the commission was stripped.  However, thanks to the
efforts of Rep. Bob Barr (R-Ga.), who offered the funding
amendment, and Rep. Hal Rogers (R-Ky.), who spoke out forcefully
on its behalf, the first step toward finally securing this much
needed funding was taken.   Please contact your U.S. Senators
(especially Sen. Judd Gregg (R-N.H.) who'll play a key role in
this battle),  and encourage them to support the funding of the
commission in the conference report of the disaster relief bill.

NATIONAL RIGHT TO CARRY RECIPROCITY UPDATE: H.R. 339, Rep. Cliff
Stearns' (R-Fla.) national right to carry reciprocity bill, is
picking up momentum, and currently has some 45 co-sponsors in the
House.  It is our strong belief that the sooner H.R. 339 garners
100 co-sponsors the sooner we'll see committee, and subsequently,
floor action on the measure.  Please contact your U.S.
Representative at 202/224-3121 (or 1-800-962-3524)  and encourage
him to sign on as a co-sponsor.  If your Representative is
already a co-sponsor of this bill, urge him to lobby his fellow
lawmakers to do the same.

A LOOK AT THE STATES: 

COLORADO:  Today, Gov. Romer vetoed  SB 96, the NRA-backed right
to carry reform bill.  Thanks to the work of state activists and
NRA-ILA, the bill progressed further through the process than
ever before.  We'll be back in future legislative sessions  to
again push for this important measure.  Please call the Governor
at 303/866-2471 to express your disappointment with his veto. 

INDIANA: HB 1669, an NRA-supported instant background check bill, 
passed the legislature and is awaiting Gov.  O'Bannon's expected
signature.  The new law will end the seven working day waiting
period on handgun purchases and de facto registration. The
instant check will go on-line in November 1998. 

IOWA:  Gov. Brandstad signed into law the NRA-supported "Handgun
Deer Hunting bill!"

NEW JERSEY: A press conference will be held on Thursday, May 22
at 10:00 a.m. in Room 109 of the State House to announce the
introduction of Assemblymen Michael Carroll's (R-25) and Scott
Garrett's (R-24) "Right to Carry" bill.  Joining them will be
State Senator Gerald  Cardinale (R-39), who has introduced a
similar "Right to Carry" bill in the Senate. Please plan to
attend Thursday's press conference. 

NEW MEXICO: Thanks to the efforts of NRA members in the third
congressional district, NRA-PVF-endorsed candidate Bill Redmond
(R) won his congressional race to fill the seat formerly held by
UN Ambassador Bill Richardson. 

OHIO: HB 209, the NRA-backed range protection bill, passed the
House and now moves to the Senate for consideration. 
Additionally, HB 60, a Sunday hunting bill, is still pending on
the House floor. Please contact your State Senators and
Representatives in support of these measures. 

SOUTH CAROLINA:  H 3715, NRA-supported range protection, has
passed the House and  now moves to the Senate.  Please call your
State Senators at (803)212-6200 and urge them to support for H
3715.  Also, this year's NRA-ILA Volunteer Organization of the
Year, Gun Owners of South Carolina (GOSC), was recently
recognized by the State Legislature.  Resolutions in both the
House and the Senate acknowledged GOSC's receipt of this ILA
award, noting GOSC's dedication to "preserving the rights of law-
abiding gun owners, as well as promoting gun safety." 

TENNESSEE:  The NRA-backed right to carry reform bill, HB 1055,
passed in the House. HB 1055 includes language clearing up delays
with the issuance of permits and has a provision providing for
reciprocity for out of state permits.  Speaker Jim Naifeh (D),
Reps. Frank Buck (D-sponsor), H.E. Bittle (R), and Ben West (D)
deserve special  thanks for securing passage of HB 1055.  Please
contact your State Senators and urge them to support HB 1055.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.973FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed May 21 1997 15:2043
May 20, 1997

        FUNDING FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT COMMISSION IN JEOPARDY
                      YOUR CALLS ARE NEEDED!

Last Thursday, May 15, the U.S. House of Representatives
unanimously adopted an amendment to the disaster relief bill
calling for $2 million to fund the NRA-supported law enforcement
review commission.

In 1996, the NRA was a strong advocate of the provision within
last year's anti-terrorism bill which called for the
establishment of a five person "Blue Ribbon" Law Enforcement
Commission (LEC).  The LEC's purpose is to take a comprehensive
view of the current state of federal law enforcement with an eye
towards restoring public trust in its mission goals and
implementation and working more closely with state and local law
enforcement.

But, as you'll recall, in the waning moments of last year's 104th
Congress, funding for the commission was stripped.  However,
thanks to the efforts of Rep. Bob Barr (R-Ga.), who offered the
funding amendment, and Rep. Hal Rogers (R-Ky.), who spoke out
forcefully on its behalf, the first step toward finally securing
this much needed funding was taken.

UNFORTUNATELY, THE LEC'S FUNDING IS IN JEOPARDY AS THE SENATE
CONSIDERS THE DISASTER RELIEF BILL THIS WEEK.  PLEASE CONTACT
YOUR U.S. SENATORS IMMEDIATELY AT (202)224-3121 AND ENCOURAGE
THEM TO SUPPORT THE FUNDING OF THE COMMISSION IN THE CONFERENCE
REPORT OF THE DISASTER RELIEF BILL.

SENATORS JUDD GREGG (R-NH) AND ORRIN HATCH (R-UT), WHO'LL PLAY
KEY ROLES IN THIS BATTLE, ESPECIALLY NEED TO HEAR FROM YOU!

PLEASE CALL NOW! -- (202)224-3121

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.974FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed May 21 1997 15:2036
May 20, 1997

TEXAS

Attention Texas Gun Owners and Sportsmen:

The Senate Criminal Justice Committee has reported out HB 2909,
NRA-backed right to carry reform legislation.  HB 2909 makes
changes to the Texas carry law which benefit license holders:
reducing penalties for technical violations of the law and
directing the DPS to negotiate license "reciprocity" agreements
with other states.  These states would, in turn, have to
recognize Texas licenses while the license holder is traveling
through or visiting in those states.

However, it is expected that gutting amendments will be offered
to HB 2909 -- including permissive language which would establish
in law that local governments have the authority to regulate the
carrying of handguns by license holders.

Members, please call your State Senators at (888) 836-8368 and
urge them to SUPPORT HB 2909 and to OPPOSE any weakening
amendments to the bill -- including any amendment which would
allow local governments to regulate license holders.

Also, call your Senators and urge them to support HB 601,
(Carter/Patterson) NRA-supported legislation protecting your
shooting ranges from certain nuisance actions and local noise
ordinances aimed at shutting them down.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.975FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue May 27 1997 16:20134
May 23, 1997

Alerts for CA, MD, OR, TN & TX

CALIFORNIA

SENATE COMMITTEE ACTION:  On Monday, May 19, the Senate
Appropriations Committee moved SB 500 (Polanco) which seeks to
ban so called "Saturday Night Specials" and SB 1339 (Calderon)
which would ban certain high capacity magazines to the "suspense
file".  Both will be reconsidered late next week.  Please call
the committee members and express your opposition.  All area
codes are (916):

Patrick Johnston (Ch.)        445-2407
Tim Leslie (V. Ch.)           445-5788
Deidre Alpert                 445-3952
John Burton                   445-1412
Charles Calderon              327-8315
Ralph Dills                   445-5953
Ross Johnson                  445-4961
Betty Karnette                445-6447
David Kelley                  445-5581
Barbara Lee                   445-6577
Bruce McPherson               445-5843
Richard Mountjoy              445-2848
John Vasconcellos             445-9740

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ACTION: The Assembly Appropriations Committee,
on Wednesday, May 21, approved AB 488 (Caldera) which seeks to
ban small, affordable firearms, used by many law-abiding citizens
for self protection.  The bill now heads to the Assembly floor
for consideration.  AB 532 (Knox), legislation seeking to ration
handgun purchases, was moved to "suspense" and will be
reconsidered  next week. 

ON THE ASSEMBLY FLOOR:   A bill which would impose further
restrictions on carrying a concealed firearm, AB 304 (Scott), and
legislation which seeks to broaden the scope of California's
"criminal storage of a firearm" statute, AB 491 (Keeley), are
currently pending  Assembly consideration.  Please contact your
Assembly Member and urge them to oppose these bills.

ON THE SENATE FLOOR:  On Thursday, May 22, SB 517 (Haynes), NRA-
backed range protection legislation, at press time was still
awaiting  Senate consideration. SB 513 (Hayden),  a  bill which
would limit handgun purchases to one in a 30 day period, passed
out of committee without a vote and now moves to the Senate
floor. SB 146 (Johnston),  which seeks to  limit police chiefs in
their ability to issue concealed carry permits was approved by
the Senate on a 24-12 vote. It now heads to the Assembly.

NEXT WEEK:   The Assembly Appropriations Committee will hear AB
23 (Perata) which would expand upon the Roberti-Roos Assault
Weapons Act, AB 991 (Shelley) which would require registration of
handguns for new residents of the state, and AB 1124 (Aroner)
which would mandate that all stored firearms or those being
transported in a vehicle be equipped with trigger locks.  Please
call the committee members and express your opposition.  All area
codes are (916): 

Carole Migden (Ch.)           445-8077
Charles Poochigian (V. Ch)    445-2931
Diane Martinez                445-7852
Keith Olberg                  445-8102
Dick Ackerman                 445-7448
Lou Papan                     445-8020
Fred Aguiar                   445-1670
Don Perata                    445-7442
Joe Baca                      445-7454
Kevin Shelley                 445-8253
Tom Bordonaro                 445-7795
Mike Sweeney                  445-8160
Marilyn Brewer                445-7222
Bruce Thompson                445-1676
Tony Cardenas                 445-1616
Helen Thomson                 445-8368
Brett Granlund                445-7552
Antonio Villaraigosa          445-0703
Sheila James Kuehl            445-9456
Carl Washington               445-7486
Mike Machado                  445-7931

LIVERMORE CITIZENS TO VOTE ON GUN BAN: On Tuesday, June 3,
residents of Livermore are urged to head to the polls and vote
"NO" on Measure H, a ballot proposal that would allow the city to
ban the sale of handguns.  Even if you live in the area
surrounding Livermore, you can still help stop this type of gun
control from coming to your city!  Friends, family, and fellow
firearm owners are encouraged to join the fight to defeat Measure
H by attending a special election work party on Saturday, May 24,
at 9 am, at the Donut Wheel , located at the corner of 1st and L
Streets in Livermore.   For further information please call Luana
Layton at (510)443-8815.

MARYLAND

Good News! Yesterday, Governor Glendening signed model NRA range
protection legislation into law.  Maryland joins 20 other states
with a law on the books protecting sport shooting ranges against
certain noise ordinances and nuisance actions aimed at shutting
them down. Delegate Jim Harkins (sponsor), Senate President Mike
Miller, Chairmen Walter Baker and Joe Vallario deserve a special
note of thanks for their efforts in marshaling through the
passage of this measure. 

OREGON

The Senate passed HJM 2, a resolution encouraging Oregon schools
to adopt NRA's Eddie Eagle program, with no dissenting votes. 
Thanks to all who attended the public hearings to share
information with legislators on this lifesaving program. 

TENNESSEE

SB 1170, the NRA-backed right to carry reform legislation, that
is the companion bill to HB 1055 could be considered by the full
Senate early next week.  Members: Please call your State Senator
and encourage him/her to support SB 1170. 

TEXAS

Next week, the Senate could consider two NRA-backed bills: HB
2909,  right to carry reform, and HB 601, shooting range
protection.  Members: Please contact your State Senator and urge
him/her to support HB 2909 and HB 601 with no weakening
amendments.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.976FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue May 27 1997 16:21142
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 21                                            5/23/97

          "MASTERING" MISPERCEPTIONS FOR MARKETING GAINS

     In introducing two of their newest trigger-locks, Master
Lock claims, "In an average year, more than 500 children die
unintentionally from gunshots."  According to the National Safety
Council (NSC), this claim would be true only if Master Lock was
counting accidental gun deaths for children up to 19 years of
age!  Looking at the most recent NSC numbers (1993), we find that
there were 205 accidental deaths for what most Americans consider
to be children (ages 0-14).  Certainly this is 205 too many, but
thanks to NRA's ongoing gun safety programs, such as Eddie Eagle,
we've managed to reduce the fatal firearms accidental rate among
children to its lowest level ever!  What's more, the highest
number of accidental shooting deaths for Master Lock's "children"
sample occur among 18 year olds -- legal adults!  NRA has
repeatedly met with Master Lock to try to correct these
inaccuracies, going so far as to provide them with the accurate
data and helping them to re-write some of their material.  It
appears, however, that unfortunately, Master Lock is more
concerned with marketing their products than being accurate in
their advertising.  It's interesting that while HCI has been
claiming that NRA uses scare tactics to sell guns and increase
our membership (both claims of course being false), they've
remained mum about Master Lock's inflated numbers to market their
product and make a buck.  Could this be because groups like HCI
supported federal legislation to hold criminally liable
individuals who fail to use trigger-locks on their personally-
owned firearms?  As this FAX goes to press, the Senate Judiciary
Committee is still considering a juvenile justice bill to which
anti-gunners are trying to attach some type of trigger-lock
amendment.  It is critically important that you continue to call
your U.S. Senators at 202/224-3121 and urge them to oppose any
trigger-lock proposal.  Tell them education and training, not
mechanical devices, stand at the heart of reducing firearms
accidents.

BAITING BILL:

On May 15, the House Fisheries Conservation, Wildlife and Oceans
Subcommittee held a hearing on H.R. 741 -- a bill to amend the
hunting laws for migratory birds.  Introduced by Resources
Committee Chairman Don Young (R-Alaska), the bill seeks to
clarify the confusing laws concerning hunting migratory birds
over bait.  According to Sen. John Breaux (D-La.), under H.R.
741, "baiting would still be illegal, but something would be
instituted so that someone could be convicted only if presumptive
knowledge that they [sic] were breaking the law could be proven." 
In other words, it would have to be proven that a hunter
knowingly was hunting a baited field, rather than simply
inadvertently hunting an area he had no idea contained bait.  Not
surprisingly, one of the bill's opponents, Rep. Sam Farr (D-Cal.), 
retorted, "The irony is that we're trying to take the
burden off of someone with a gun trying to kill an animal and
trying to put the burden on someone with a badge."  Wrong Rep.
Farr! H.R. 741 is trying not to punish an otherwise law-abiding
sportsmen who unknowingly hunts a field that may contain a few
stray kernels of corn of which he's not aware.  Clearly,
opponents of this bill, like Rep. Farr, are not anti-baiting, but
rather, anti-hunting. 

NOT SO JOLLY OLD ENGLAND:

Unfortunately for Great Britain's gun owners, to the victors
belong the spoils.  Tony Blair, the Labour Party's newly elected
Prime Minister who admits to cloning his political style from
Bill Clinton, is insisting that the British Parliament take
action on legislation to ban all handguns by the end of the year. 
A recent piece in The Sunday Telegraph London reported Mr.
Blair's unwavering support for a bill extending the prohibition
of large caliber handguns to include those of .22s and below. 
When Britain's Firearms Act was introduced last year, the Labour
Party tried without success to amend it to include small caliber
firearms.  It now appears, however, that based upon recent
election results, defeating this handgun ban may be an uphill
battle for supporters of private firearms ownership.  One
prominent gun control advocate across the pond is "delighted that
the Government is keeping faith with gun control campaigners and
honouring its commitment to a total ban."

A LOOK AT THE STATES:

MARYLAND: Yesterday, Gov. Glendening signed model NRA range
protection legislation into law.  Maryland joins 20 other states
with a law on the books protecting shooting ranges against
certain noise ordinances and nuisance actions aimed at shutting
them down. Delegate Jim Harkins (R-25A [sponsor]), Senate
President Mike Miller (D-27), Chairmen Walter Baker (D-36) and
Joe Vallario (D-27A) deserve a special note of thanks for
marshaling the passage of this measure.

OREGON: Without dissent, the Senate passed HJM 2, a resolution
encouraging Oregon schools to adopt NRA's Eddie Eagle program. 
Thanks to all who attended the public hearings to share
information with legislators on this lifesaving program. 

TENNESSEE: SB 1170, the NRA-backed right to carry reform bill
that is the companion bill to HB 1055, could be considered by the
full Senate early next week.  Please call your State Senator and
encourage him to support SB 1170. 

TEXAS: Next week, the Senate could consider two NRA-backed bills:
HB 2909, right to carry reform, and HB 601, shooting range
protection.  Please contact your State Senator and urge him to
support HB 2909 and HB 601 with no weakening amendments. 

WISCONSIN: A grassroots organization has been formed to recall
anti-gun Senators Herb Kohl (D) and Russ Feingold (D).  As you
know, your two U.S. Senators are two of the most anti-gun in the
entire Senate.  NRA-ILA has been provided with copies of the
recall petitions that gun owners are urged to sign.  For copies
of these petitions to circulate in your community, please contact
the NRA-ILA Grassroots Division at 1-800-392-8683 first thing
Tuesday morning, as time is of the essence!

MEET TANYA METAKSA & GET YOUR SIGNED COPY OF "SAFE, not Sorry":

On Wednesday, June 11, and Thursday, June 12, NRA-ILA Executive
Director Tanya Metaksa  will be in Texas to sign copies of her
book SAFE, not Sorry --the definitive women's personal protection
manual. On June 11, Tanya will be in  Dallas at Borders Books  on
10720 Preston Road at 7:00 p.m. (for directions, call 
214/363-9305).  On June 12, she will be in Houston at Borders
Books 9633A Westhimer Rd., at 8:00 p.m. (for directions, call
713/782-0475).  With all proceeds from SAFE, not Sorry going
directly to NRA-ILA, it is critical we work to earn "SAFE, not
Sorry" a place on the best-seller's list!  For more information on
the book or tour dates, contact the NRA-ILA Grassroots Division.

           Have a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend!

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.977FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Tue May 27 1997 16:21255
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly

             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No. 20                                       May 22, 1997

                         SPECIAL EDITION:
 Senate to consider the House-passed Juvenile Crime Control Act.

This Special Edition focuses on specific provisions of H.R. 3,
which passed the U.S. House on May 8, and provides examples of
what's needed in juvenile justice reform. 

Background

     Juvenile crime-fighting is largely a state responsibility. 
In the most recent record-keeping year, state authorities
arrested 115,000 juveniles for violent crime.  This compares to
500 juveniles referred for investigation to federal prosecutors.
Of those 500 juveniles in  the federal system, about 100 were
adjudicated delinquent in federal court less than 50 for violent
crime.

     In September 1995, the U.S. Department of Justice Office of
Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention issued a report that
projected juvenile violent crime arrests would more than double
by the year 2010.

H.R. 3, The Juvenile Crime Control Act

     H.R. 3 recognizes the urgency of juvenile justice reform by
proposing a three- rather than the customary five-year federal
plan.  H.R. 3 also recognizes the fundamental nature of juvenile
crime as state-based, and allocates resources accordingly.  

     The most important portion of the bill is Title III.  Here,
the act establishes the Juvenile Accountability Block Grant
program to provide $1.5 billion to states and units of local
governments for juvenile crime-fighting over the next three
years.  To qualify, states must certify:

     * That their law or policy is to try juveniles age 15 and
     older as adults when they are alleged to have committed
     violent crimes, or that state prosecutors (rather than
     judges) have the ability to try those juveniles as adults;

     * That their system responds to each act of delinquency with
     accountability-based sanctions that escalate in severity
     with each subsequent, more serious delinquent or criminal
     act, such sanctions to include restitution, community
     service, punishment imposed by community accountability
     councils comprised of individuals from the community
     (restorative justice), fines, and short-term confinement;
     and

     * That they will establish a juvenile record keeping system
     for juveniles charged with a second offense that would be a
     felony if committed by an adult.

     States need provide only 10% matching funds for the grants,
except that states failing to establish a process to notify
parents when a juvenile sex offender enrolls in their child's
elementary or secondary school will have these block grant funds
reduced 20% [501].  Fund may be used, inter alia, to: 

     * Build, expand, renovate, or operate juvenile correction
     and detention facilities and to train personnel;

     * Hire judges, public defenders, and prosecutors and to
     acquire technology and equipment to prevent a backlog in
     juvenile court processing;

     * Establish interagency information sharing programs that
     enable the juvenile and criminal justice systems, schools,
     and social service agencies to treat and supervise juveniles
     who repeatedly commit serious delinquent or criminal acts.
     
H.R. 3 Reform of Federal System

     The Juvenile Crime Control Act makes changes on the federal
level, too.  H.R. 3 would:

     * Require, with few exceptions, juveniles after age 14
     charged with a serious violent felonies (who are not
     surrendered to state court) to be tried in federal district
     court where, if convicted, they can be sentenced as adults.  
     Subject to Attorney General approval, 13-year old juveniles
     charged with violent crimes could also be tried as adults.
     [Title I]

     * Establish "Armed Youth Criminal Apprehension Task Forces"
     to get violent armed juvenile criminals off the streets by
     the year 2000.  Title I requires juveniles after age 14 be
     subject to the same tough federal gun laws as adults, and be
     tried and sentenced the same as adults who break these laws. 
     For example, a 16-year-old gang member who gets a handgun
     for use in a drive-by shooting would face a mandatory
     minimum prison sentence of up to 10 years, regardless of
     whether he used it in crime. However, Title II also gives
     federal judges the discretion to deviate from long,
     mandatory minimum sentences in appropriate juvenile cases.

     * Protect vulnerable young defendants from older, hardened
     criminals by requiring that pretrial detention of juveniles
     under age 16 be in juvenile facilities. [Title I]

Conclusion: H.R. 3 is not perfect -- Title II creates frivolous
new "Gun Courts" and "Drug Courts," so why not add "Rape Courts"
and "Robbery Courts," etc. -- but it could go a long way in
reducing the only category of violent crime that's on the
increase in America, that committed by juveniles. 

Liberal House Members Fall on Sword Over "Safety" in Crime Bill;
Senate Next?

     President Clinton and some anti-gun members of Congress have
seized on trigger locks attempting to rename them "child safety
locks" -- using the issue as an excuse to vote against the
groundbreaking juvenile justice bill.

     If the nexus between juvenile gun crime and juvenile gun
accidents appeared tenuous to many, President Clinton made it
fuzzier still by recently ordering guns issued to FBI and BATF
agents be supplied with locking devices, presumably for off-duty
use.

     Trigger locks are the issue in S.428, sponsored by Sen. Herb
Kohl (D-WI), which dictates a locking device be purchased by the
buyer with every handgun sold, along with the warning: "Failure
to properly lock and store your firearm may result in civil or
criminal liability under state law."

     Commenting on this language, NRA chief lobbyist Tanya
Metaksa said the warning is "redundant, since states already
provide penalties under which an adult found grossly negligent in
the storage of a firearm can be prosecuted for a felony."   More
important, she said, "is that while we're facing juvenile violent
crime rates that have reached an all-time high, some in Congress
are ducking the issue by focusing on juvenile gun accidents,
which are at an all-time low [see Top 3 FAQ About Safe Gun
Storage, below].  It's pretty clearly a red herring, since crime
is intentional, whereas accidents are unintentional conduct, and
the proponents of the [trigger lock] amendment have never seen an
gun-ban bill they didn't like." 

Majority of States Reject Mandatory Storage/"Trigger Lock"
Legislation

     This legislation has been filed in at least 29 states.  Of
those, 20 (70%) rejected the legislation.  17 passed resolutions
or proclamations supporting firearms safety education in schools,
such as the NRA Eddie Eagle Gun Safety Program.

Top 3 FAQ About Gun Safe Gun Storage

* Don't trigger locks keep guns from firing the same way child
safety caps keep aspirin tablets in the bottle?

     No, not unless the gun is unloaded or the aspirin bottle is
     empty.  Trigger lock warning labels advise against using
     them on guns that are loaded, since misuse (attaching to a
     loaded gun) can contribute to causing the gun to fire
     accidentally.

* Does removing guns from the home protect children from gun
accidents?

     No.  This illusion of safety can backfire because while
     parents with guns at home generally teach their children
     guns are not toys, parents who don't keep guns often don't 
     -- even though their child may discover a gun in another
     location, such as a neighbor's home.  NRA's Eddie Eagle Gun
     Safety Program (who's message to kids K-grade 6 when they
     see a gun is STOP, DON'T TOUCH, LEAVE THE AREA, TELL AN
     ADULT), has taught safety to 10 million American children.

* How do you store a gun safely?

     35,000 NRA-Certified Instructors teach 750,000 Americans
     annually that there's only one way to store a gun safely: 
     so that it is inaccessible to unauthorized persons (which
     includes adults, children, thieves, etc.).  How  to reach
     this "inaccessibility standard" differs among individuals:

     * A woman living alone who has a court order of protection
     against a violent ex-partner may, while she is home, choose
     to store her firearm loaded and within her reach.

     * Parents with young children may choose to store their guns
     unloaded with a locking device.

     * Other parents may choose to store the gun unloaded with
     the ammunition stored separately in a locked drawer.

     * A collector may wish to store his or her guns in a safe
     bolted to the floor.

Juvenile Violent Crime Up 68%

     When the Department of Justice reported in December that
1995 witnessed the first decline in juvenile violent crime arrest
rate in a decade -- albeit a slight 4% decrease from the previous
year -- the agency didn't try to hide how serious the problem has
become.

     Many criminologists see 1995's arrest decline as a sign that
new state laws allowing violent juvenile criminals to be tried
and sentenced as adults are taking hold.  However, they remain
concerned that the trend continue, given the teen demographic
explosion that looms in the 21st century.

     The DOJ report showed violent crime arrests for ages 10 to
17 grew from 303 per 100,000 in 1985 to over 510 per 100,000 in
1995, an increase of more than 68%.  Total juvenile violent crime
arrest, per FBI, are:

Crime               1985           1995           Increase
------------------------------------------------------------
Murder              1,189          2,560          115%  
Robbery             18,108         44,508         58%
Aggrav. Assault     30,635         64,334         110%


Top 3 FAQ About Gun Accidents

* How many Americans die in gun accidents?

     Annually, 1,400 nationwide.

* How many of these are children? 

     It depends on the definition of "children." The National
     Safety Council uses pediatricians' definition: up to age 15. 
     Based on this definition of "children," the National Safety
     Council reports 205 children nationwide died in gun
     accidents in 1995.

* What proportion of accidental deaths involve guns?

     1 1/2 percent.

                 A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
      Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.978FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Jun 02 1997 10:5977
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

SPECIAL                                                   5/27/97
                                 
                      TRIGGER-LOCK TRAVAILS
                                
     As you know from recent FAX Alerts, there are some anti-gun
Washington politicians who think there's a shortcut to safety.
Rather than supporting the tried and true method of education and
training, they're prepared to rely on mechanical gadgets and
gizmos like trigger-locks.  If these lawmakers have their way,
anyone who doesn't store his personally-owned firearms with one
of these gadgets could be held criminally liable!

     In the next few days, the Senate Judiciary Committee will
vote on its juvenile justice bill.  The House version bill passed
without any trigger-lock amendments, but at the urging of the
Clinton/Gore Administration, anti-gun Senators are still
maneuvering to amend the bill to include trigger-lock language.

     As an NRA member, you know better than most the importance
of firearms training and education.  After all, your NRA has been
the leader on this front for over 125 years.  In the last eight
years alone, NRA has spent $100 million, training people in safe,
responsible firearms use.

     Americans don't need the federal government telling us how
to store our property in our homes.  That is our responsibility
and it is one we are willing to accept.  Thanks to NRA's safety
programs, of which you're a part, the annual number of accidental
firearms fatalities has DECREASED 56% since 1930. What's more,
the placement of trigger-locks on loaded firearms can be
dangerous.  Consider the following warning issued by one trigger-
lock manufacturer: "WARNING: Do Not Use on a Loaded Gun! 
Attempts to use on a loaded gun may result in an accidental
discharge."  Keeping this warning in mind, a trigger-lock mandate
would render useless the American firearms used defensively 2.5
million times each year.  There simply isn't time to fiddle with
one of these gadgets and load your gun if you're faced with a
life and death situation.  

     With this legislation moving fast, it is critical that you
call your U.S. Senators at 202/224-3121, as well as one or all of
the following Senators on the Judiciary Committee, and urge them
to oppose any trigger-lock amendment.  Remind them that safety
and education, not gizmos and gadgets, will continue to afford
Americans the security and safety they need and deserve.  

     The following Senators serve on the Senate Judiciary
Committee and will play a pivotal role in deciding the fate of
any trigger-lock amendment.  If you have any family, friends, or
fellow firearms owners in the following states, please encourage
them to spread the word and contact their Senators as soon as
possible.  

Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah-Chair, Jud. Cmte.)       202/224-5251
Sen. Fred Thompson (R-Tenn.)                      202/224-4944
Sen. Mike DeWine (R-Ohio)                         202/224-2315
Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pa.)                        202/224-4254
Sen. Spencer Abraham (R-Mich.)                    202/224-4822
Sen. Jon Kyl (R-Ariz)                             202/224-4521
Sen. John Ashcroft (R-Mo.)                        202/224-6154
Sen. Patrick Leahy 
     (D-Vt.-Ranking Member, Jud. Cmte.)           202/224-4242

       For the latest NRA-ILA fact sheet on trigger-locks,
        contact the Grassroots Division at 1-800-392-8683
        or visit http://www.nra.org/research/fsstorag.html

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.979FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Jun 02 1997 10:59116
                        NRA CrimeStrike's
                        CrimeWatch Weekly
 
             Breaking news on critical crime-fighting
                 issues, policies and legislation

Vol. 3, No. 21                                       May 27, 1997

Just 1.4% Of Juveniles Waived To Adult Courts, Study Reports

     A new government study finding that the percentage of
juvenile offenders waived to adult court is unchanged in the 10
years from 1985 to 1994 is evidence that further juvenile justice
reform is urgently needed, CrimeStrike Director Elizabeth J.
Swasey says.

     A just-released joint study by the Bureau of Justice
Statistics and Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency
Prevention, "Juveniles Prosecuted in State Criminal Courts,"
reveals that "the percentage of petitioned cases waived to
criminal court has remained relatively constant at about 1.4%
since 1985." 

     The study found that just 12,300 out of 855,200 petitioned
juvenile cases were judicially waived to adult courts in 1994.  A
decade earlier, in 1985,  7,200 cases were sent to adult courts,
but there were nearly 350,000 fewer delinquency cases that year.

     To put these numbers in perspective, CrimeStrike compared
the number of juvenile cases waived to adult court in 1994 to
juvenile violent crime arrests reported in the FBI's Uniform
Crime Reports for that year.   

     "Even if all of the estimated 12,300 juveniles waived in
1994 were charged with violent crimes, they would still
constitute just 7.2% of the 170,736 juveniles arrested for
violent crime that year," CrimeStrike's Swasey observed.  Looked
at another way, the data suggests more than 90% of juveniles
arrested on  violent crime charges are not sent to adult courts.

     However, because the authors say there is no national data
on the number of juveniles referred to adult courts where adult
and juvenile courts have concurrent jurisdiction, or where states
have given adult courts exclusive jurisdiction for some offenses,
a direct comparison is problematic, she acknowledged.       

     She urged speedy Senate consideration of companion
legislation to H.R. 3, juvenile justice reform legislation
sponsored by Rep. Bill McCollum, R-FL, that passed in the House
May 8.  "The bill is not perfect and we hope to work with
subcommittee members to improve it," Swasey said, "but it would
award up to $1.5 billion in juvenile justice grants over three
years to states that adopt reforms, including requirements that
certain violent juvenile offenders be tried in adult courts,
which is a much-needed real step forward."

Georgia Court Rejects Claim That No Parole is 'Too Tough'

     In an important case, the Georgia Supreme Court has upheld
the state's 1994 Truth-In-Sentencing law establishing tough, no-
parole sentencing guidelines as a proper legislative  attempt to
ensure that violent offenders serve their entire prison
sentences.

     Two Georgians convicted in a 1996 armed robbery in Valdosta,
Robert Campbell and William Frank Jones, had appealed their 10-
year, no parole sentences as too severe.  They were the first to
challenge the law.

Arkansas Parolee Charged With Tulsa Woman's Murder

     The discovery that nearly 6,000 out-of-state parolees were
living in Oklahoma came as news to the Tulsa World, which
reported on the subject at length May 17.
 
      But the brutal murder that put the World on the story's
trail may concern Arkansans even more.  A 28-year-old convicted
rapist and kidnapper self-employed as a door-to-door meat
salesman has been charged with the stabbing murder of a 22-
year-old Tulsa woman and with attacking her roommate last week.  

     The Arkansas parolee, Sterling Williams, had been
transferred from Arkansas to Oklahoma in April of 1996. 
Williams, the World found, was paroled by Arkansas authorities
more than a year before his minimum early release date of June
24, 1997, and over the objections of a police detective and
prosecuting attorney.  Sentenced to 10 years in prison on two
counts of first-degree rape, kidnapping, burglary and battery, he
had served less than three years.

New Prison Bolsters NY's Capacity  

     New York State's chronically overcrowded prisons got a boost
in mid-may  when the new South Woods State Prison accepted its
first 120 inmates. Ultimately, 3,200 inmates will occupy the $237
million prison, reports the New York Times.

     Gov. George Pataki, who has made tough crime-fighting
measures a key administration goal, has already called for 7,000
additional prison beds and laws to prevent parole for violent
offenders after a first conviction.  The Times said the state's
prison system, with the population at nearly 69,000 last June, is
now 40% over capacity.  That's with 4,000 state prisoners held in
county jails.

                 A publication of NRA CrimeStrike
             11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
      Tel.800.868.4411; Fax 703.267.3992; http://www.nra.org
               Reproduction permitted with credit.
                   Source materials available. 
=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.980FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Jun 02 1997 10:5971
May 30, 1997

State & Local Alerts for CA, DE & LA.

CALIFORNIA

As the June 6 deadline for all Senate and Assembly bills to clear
their respective houses of origin rapidly approaches, expect next
week to be fast paced.  Keep up the calls to your Assembly
Members and State Senators, and urge them to oppose this anti-gun
agenda!

IN THE ASSEMBLY: Bills pending consideration are AB 532 (Knox),
which seeks to ration handgun purchases, AB 488 (Caldera), which
would ban small, affordable firearms, used by many law-abiding
citizens for self protection, AB 304 (Scott), an attempt to
impose further restrictions on the carrying a firearm concealed,
and AB 491 (Keeley), which seeks to broaden the scope of
California's "criminal storage of a firearm" statute.  Also
awaiting action are AB 23 (Perata), which would expand upon the
Roberti-Roos Assault Weapons Act, AB 991 (Shelley), which would
require registration of handguns for new residents of the state,
AB 1124 (Aroner), which mandates that all stored firearms or
those being transported in a vehicle be equipped with trigger
locks, AB 131 (Ortiz), a measure requiring stolen firearms be
reported to law enforcement within 48 hours, failure to do so
resulting in an infraction, and AB 1107 (Ortiz) a proposal that
would essentially ban gun shows on state property. Please contact
Assembly Members to express your opposition! 

IN THE SENATE: On a good note, the NRA-backed Range Protection
legislation, SB 517 (Haynes), has been approved by Senate and now
moves to the Assembly Judiciary Committee for consideration. 

As for the anti-gun agenda, SB 500 (Polanco), which seeks to ban
so called "Saturday Night Specials" and SB 1339 (Calderon),which
would ban certain high capacity magazines, could also see action
this week.  Members are encouraged to contact State Senators and
urge that they oppose these restrictive measures.  Additionally,
SB 513 (Hayden),  a bill which would limit handgun purchases to
one in a 30 day period, passed the Senate on a 21-16 vote and now
moves on the Assembly for consideration. 

DELAWARE

Good News! The NRA's Eddie Eagle Gun Safety Program has been
recognized through a Joint Resolution of the General Assembly. 
Not only did the resolution recognize the Eddie Eagle program it
also commended the NRA for all its work on gun safety.  

LOUISIANA

Next week the Civil Law and Procedure Committee is expected to
consider SB 694, NRA-backed Range Protection legislation
sponsored by Representative Roy Brun (R-5).  SB 694 would protect
shooting ranges against certain noise ordinances or nuisance
actions aimed at shutting them down.  Members: Please contact
your State Representatives and urge them to support SB 694 when
it comes before them. 

** To get a free copy of the NRA-ILA Victory Report from the
States 1994-1997 please call NRA-ILA's Grassroots Division at 
1-800-392-8683.  This report gives an overview of  NRA-ILA's 92
pro-active legislative victories and counting since 1994.  

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.981FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Mon Jun 02 1997 10:59102
                         NRA-ILA FAX ALERT
           11250 Waples Mill Road * Fairfax, VA  22030
    Phone: 1-800-392-8683 * Fax: 703-267-3918 * GROOTS@NRA.org

Vol. 4, No. 22                                            5/30/97

                   WORKING TO MASTER THE FACTS!

     Last week's FAX Alert (Vol. 4, No. 21) noted how Master
Lock's advertisements for some of their new products used
incorrect data on firearms accidents.  However, after discussions
between NRA-ILA and Master Lock this week, we've learned that
they've corrected this oversight.  As you'll recall, the numbers
Master Lock was previously using were highly inflated, counting
as accidents incidents among "children" 18 and 19 years of age.
At press time, Master Lock was in the process of updating their 
homepage to set the record straight by accurately noting the most
recent data (National Center for Health Statistics, 1994) that
document there were 185 accidental gun deaths among children ages
0-14 -- the age group generally accepted as children.  We
appreciate Master Lock quickly rectifying this matter, and our
hats also go off to those NRA-ILA Volunteers who pointed out this
inconsistency to Master Lock.

KEEP THOSE TRIGGER-LOCK CALLS COMING:  Well it's happened!  Anti-
gun Senator Herb Kohl (D-Wisc.) has formally introduced a
trigger-lock amendment to the Senate juvenile justice bill
(Wisconsin members will recall from last week's FAX Alert an
effort to recall Sens. Kohl and Feingold is underway.  To obtain
copies of these recall petitions to circulate, please call the
Grassroots Division.)  A number of Senators still remain
uneducated about why trigger-lock mandates are detrimental, and
they have not made their position on the Kohl amendment clear. 
Please continue to call your U.S. Senators and the following
members of the Judiciary Committee at 202/224-3121, and urge them
to oppose the Kohl amendment to the juvenile justice bill or any
other trigger-lock  amendment that may be offered.  Use the
information contained in Tuesday's special FAX Alert when making
your calls, and encourage your family, friends, and fellow
firearms owners to call as well!  Judiciary Committee members
that need to hear from you: Orrin Hatch (R-Utah-Chair, Jud.
Cmte.), Fred Thompson (R-Tenn.), Mike DeWine (R-Ohio), Arlen
Specter (R-Pa.), Spencer Abraham (R-Mich.), and Patrick Leahy 
(D-Vt.-Ranking Member, Jud. Cmte.).

A LOOK AT THE STATES:

DELAWARE: Good News! The NRA's Eddie Eagle Gun Safety Program has
been recognized through a Joint Resolution of the General
Assembly.  Not only did the resolution recognize the Eddie Eagle
program, it also commended the NRA for all its work on gun
safety.  

LOUISIANA: Next week, the Civil Law and Procedure Committee is
expected to consider SB 694, NRA-backed range protection
legislation, sponsored by Representative Roy Brun (R-5).  SB 694
would protect shooting ranges against certain noise ordinances or
nuisance actions aimed at shutting them down.  Please contact
your State Representatives and urge them to support SB 694 when
it comes before them. NEW YORK: S. 4084A, the NRA-supported Crime
Victims' Protection Act, which bars criminals from recovering
damages from their victims if the criminal is injured during the
course of the crime, passed the Senate overwhelmingly, and now
moves to the Assembly for consideration.  Please call your
Assemblyman at (518) 455-4100 and him to support the Crime
Victims' Protection Act.  

NRA-ILA VICTORY REPORT AVAILABLE:  To get a FREE copy of the NRA-
ILA Victory Report from the States 1994-1997, please call NRA-
ILA's Grassroots Division at 1-800-392-8683.  This report gives
an overview of  NRA-ILA's 92 proactive legislative victories
since 1994.  

NRA-ILA IN ATLANTA: NRA-ILA, along with leaders from the Second
Amendment Foundation (SAF) & the Citizens Committee for the Right
to Keep and Bear Arms, will be in Atlanta on June 28th & 29th for
the 27th consecutive Regional Leadership Training Conference. 
Come join your fellow gun owners to discuss how we can work
together to protect our freedoms.  The Conference is FREE, and
will be held on June 28th & 29th at the Atlanta Airport Hilton
and Towers Hotel.  To reserve your seat, call John Barnett at SAF
at 206/454-7012.

MEET TANYA METAKSA & GET YOUR AUTOGRAPHED COPY OF SAFE, not
Sorry:  On Wednesday, June 11, and Thursday, June 12, NRA-ILA
Executive Director Tanya Metaksa  will be in Texas to sign copies
of her book SAFE, not Sorry -- the definitive women's personal
protection manual. On June 11, Tanya will be in  Dallas at
Borders Books on 10720 Preston Road at 7:00 p.m. (for directions,
call 214/363-9305).  On June 12, she will be in Houston at
Borders Books 9633A Westhimer Rd., at 8:00 p.m. (for directions,
call 713/782-0475).  With all proceeds from SAFE, not Sorry going
directly to NRA-ILA, it is critical we work to earn SAFE, not
Sorry a place on the best-seller's list!  For more information on
the book or tour dates, contact the NRA-ILA Grassroots Division.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.982FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Jun 04 1997 11:0620
June 3, 1997

Louisiana

Yesterday, June 2, the House Civil Law and Procedure Committee
reported out the NRA-backed shooting range protection bill.  SB
694, sponsored by Representative Roy Brun (R-5), would protect
shooting range facilities against certain noise ordinances or
nuisance actions aimed at shutting them down.  The bill now moves
to the full House for consideration.  Please contact your State
Representatives and urge them to support SB 694 when it comes
before them on the floor.

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org
6300.983FABSIX::J_SADINFreedom isn't free.Wed Jun 04 1997 11:0645
June 3, 1997
 
        TENNESSEE LEGISLATURE PASSES RIGHT TO CARRY REFORM

     Bill now awaits expected signature by Governor Sundquist

Thanks to the tireless efforts of NRA members and pro-gun
lawmakers, the Tennessee State Legislature passed the conference
report for the NRA-backed Right to Carry Reform Bill on Saturday,
May 31st.  This legislation, which provides sister-state
reciprocity for qualified permit holders, as well as improves
upon the issuance system for permit applicants, serves as an
example of what NRA members, lawmakers, and firearms enthusiasts
can accomplish when working together.  The measure now goes to
Governor Don Sundquist's desk where it is expected to be signed
in the near future. At this time, NRA members are encouraged to
contact the following lawmakers and thank them for their efforts
in passing this legislation:

Senators:

Stephen Cohen (D-30th)
Jeff Miller (R-9th)
Curtis Person, Jr. (R-31st)
Ronald Ramsey (R-2nd)

Representatives:

H.E. Bittle, Jr. (R-14th)
Frank Buck (D-40th)
Chris Newton (R-22nd)

These lawmakers can be reached at (800) 449-8366.

NRA Members with additional questions concerning this legislation
are urged to contact the NRA-ILA Grassroots Division at (800)
392-8683.    

=+=+=+=+
This information is provided as a service of the National Rifle
Association Institute for Legislative Action, Fairfax, VA.

This and other information on the Second Amendment and the NRA is
available at: http://WWW.NRA.Org