Sponsor Statement for SJR 14

Supporting federal legislation permitting state concealed handgun permittees to carry concealed handguns in other states.

SJR 14 is a resolution which would put Alaska on the record in support of H. R. 339, a bill currently being considered in the United States House of Representatives. This federal legislation, introduced by Congressman Cliff Stearns (R-Florida), would provide a national standard in accordance with which nonresidents of a state may carry certain concealed firearms.

In 1994 the Alaska Legislature joined the growing number of states which allow residents to carry concealed handguns for their personal protection and defense. In 1994 Alaska's citizens also overwhelmingly approved an amendment to our State Constitution which affirmed our individual right to keep and bear arms.

The need and desire for personal protection and defense does not end at the borders of the state of a person's residence. Unfortunately there is only limited reciprocity between the states in regard to the legal carry of concealed handguns. H. R. 339 would allow concealed handgun permittees of one state to carry concealed handguns in each of the other states, regardless of whether or not that state has a concealed weapons permit program in place.

Even though one might presume that the 2nd Amendment to the Bill of Rights would apply uniformly in all 50 states, a law abiding citizen faces a labyrinth of often confusing laws and regulations. H. R. 339 would help remedy this situation.

This legislation is supported by the National Rifle Association of America, a grass roots organization which boasts 25,000 Alaskans among its membership.