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Maryland House “Gun Bill Day” Update

Ammoland — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:13:40 +0000

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(Ammoland.com)- The House Judiciary Committee will hold hearings on most of the gun bills on what has become known as “Gun Bill Day”.

This hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at 1:00 PM, in the House Judiciary Committee which is located in Room 100 in the House Office Building.

We need a very strong demonstration of strength to support gun rights in Maryland. Please make plans now to attend the hearing on Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at 1:00 PM.

Please view the embed below for the AGC House “Gun Bill Day” Information Pack & Action Plan. This publication is intended to answer your questions regarding bills, contact information, directions, parking, security procedures etc..

If you are concerned about changing Maryland’s “may issue” on permits to carry a concealed handgun to a “shall issue” system as is the case in many other states; you need to make your voice heard.

Don’t wait for “Gun Bill Day“; use the links below and start contacting your legislators today!

For those readers who are new to the Legislative Email Network, blue underlined text contains a hyperlink to additional information. Clicking on the text will take you to that information. Please be sure to take these links for “test drive.”

John H. Josselyn
Legislative Vice President

In this issue:
AGC’s House “Gun Bill Day” Information Pack & Action Plan
Quick Links for 2012 Session Gun Bills & Related Informatio

2012 Maryland House Bill Hearing Action Pack

Note: This document is constantly being updated to reflect the latest information.
Quick Links for 2012 Session Gun Bills & Related Information

Note: The information contained on these links is constantly being updated. Check back often for updates.

Bill Hearing Schedules and Information on Bills to Support or Oppose

This link contains the following information:

List of gun bills to date with bill numbers and bill titles
AGC’s position in support of, or in opposition, to the various bills
Synopsis of the bills
Hyperlinks to information on the bills and bill status
Hyperlinks to the actual text of the bills
Hyperlinks to the committee information with committee contact numbers and hyperlink email addresses

Action Alerts (latest information and guidance on bills and issues requiring our immediate action)
Situation Report: Annapolis (a continually updated chronology of the latest news and events in Annapolis arranged from the most recent to the oldest)
Information on Gun Rights Ratings & Contact Information for the Maryland General Assembly
Civic Action Email System (a very easy way to contact your legislators via email)
Gun Legislation (gun legislation and weapons legislation tend to overlap to a large extent)
Weapons Legislation (gun legislation and weapons legislation tend to overlap to a large extent)
Hunting Legislation

About:
Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Inc. (AGC), located in Marriottsville, Maryland. The Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Inc. was formed on July 1, 1944 when a number of World War II veterans in the Baltimore, Maryland area began looking for a place for recreational and competitive shooting. They organized with several other Baltimore area shooting clubs to form the “AGC” Visit: www.associatedgunclubs.org

Tags: AGC, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Gun Bills, Gun Politics, Maryland

Baltimore Police Issue 2nd Amendment Decal Warning

Ammoland — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 14:20:22 +0000

Baltimore Police Issue 2nd Amendment Decal Warning

2nd Amendment Decal

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(Ammoland.com)- On May 29, 2011, the Baltimore Police Criminal Intelligence Section issued an “Intelligence Bulletin” warning officers about persons displaying the 2nd Amendment decal pictured here. The bulletin contains the following caption in bold red letters:

“….while the individual who is displaying the symbol may not be armed, the presence of the symbol provides an early warning indicator that you MAY be about to encounter an armed individual.”

It apparently never occurred to the Intelligence Section that perhaps we the people could use a warning that the presence of a badge provides an early warning that we are about to encounter an armed individual. While this may seem a bit sarcastic, it is certainly not unfair for Maryland citizens to have reason for concern when they are approached by an officer.

This is especially true when the officers are overly tense because they have been warned that a citizen with a decal or patch MAY be armed.

This Association asked James H. Green, of the Baltimore City Police Department to explain why the Baltimore City Police Department feels the need to profile persons who choose to support the U.S. Constitution.

Mr. Green responded with the following statement:

“I have spoken with our Criminal Intelligence Section and the bulletin was created in response to a number of recent inquires asking about the decal and its meaning and information generally provided to law enforcement about officer safety. All law enforcement agencies attempt to inform our officers or citizens as appropriate when inquiries such as this arise.
I certainly disagree with your characterization of “profiling.” Clearly the bulletin is informational and does not remotely suggest a suppression of Constitutional rights. In fact, as you are aware, many law enforcement personnel are members of the NRA or affiliated organizations.
As you are also aware, traffic stops are the single most dangerous encounter for law enforcement. It certainly is practice for law enforcement to ask operators about weapons for safety reasons only. The presence of a decal is NOT justification in itself for a traffic stop.
I hope that this addresses your inquiry and clears up any confusion about the bulletin.”

Note: “ WRTAC” stands for “Washington Regional Threat Analysis Center”

This Association has already submitted a Public Information Act request for information regarding similar bulletins involving NRA decals, patches and license plates.

It is quite interesting that the Washington Regional Threat Analysis Center and the Baltimore Police believe that showing support for the U.S. Constitution is considered a threat to police officers.

The actual Baltimore City Police Bulletin

Baltimore Police Issue 2nd Amendment Decal Warning

Click here to purchase a 2nd Amendment support decal.

Tags: 2nd Amendment, AGC, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Maryland

2011 Maryland Session Gun Bills Status Update

Ammoland — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 14:00:46 +0000

2011 Maryland Session Gun Bills Status Update

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(Ammoland.com)- As predicted, the gun bills began appearing in the second week of the Session.

We are seeing the normal fare, including the expected exploitation of the Tuscon shooting by Senator Frosh. Delegate Ana Sol Gutierrez is jumping on the anti-gun agenda with what is expected to be a crossfiled House bill identical to Senator Frosh’s SB 162.

What is unusual this Session is the number of crossfiled bills with 8 of the 13 bills filed to date being crossfiled. Depending on whether or not the House Judiciary Committee holds its hearings on the same day as the Senate Judicial Committee this could make our task more or less difficult.

We are currently reviewing several of this year’s “anti crime” bills to see what mischief may be lurking in the details.

Senator Frosh Files Anti-Gun Legislation – Committee Hearings Scheduled

While it may not be the main event for this session, the first “Gun Bill Day” will be in the Senate on Thursday, February 10, 2011.

This is somewhat early in the Session so it appears that Senator Frosh, Chairman of the Senate Judicial Committee is eager to promote his anti-2nd Amendment agenda. Be sure to check the new bill information and hearing links in the Useful Links During the 2011 Session section below.

HB 9 Carry Permit Reciprocity - Hearing – After Action Report

The hearing went quite well. Most notable were the number of pointed questions asked of the Maryland State Police.

Click here to view the “standard” video recording of the HB 9 hearing.

Click here to read or download HB9 (Note: West Virginia was omitted by Legislative Services and will be added to the scope of the bill by way of amendment when Delegate Smigiel introduces his bill before the Committee.)

Your support is STILL needed to advance this bill. Last session, this same legislation failed in a 10-10 tie vote. Please focus your efforts on the following members of the committee (remember to keep your communications polite and respectful):

Click here to E-mail members the House Judiciary Committee

Gun Bills Filed
The following gun bills have been filed to date. They are listed below categorized under bills we should support or oppose.

NOTE: Clicking on the bill number will link you to the MLIS bill information page. Clicking on the bill title will link you to the actual bill text.

SUPPORT:

HB 9
Regulated Firearms – License Issued by Delaware, Pennsylvania, or Virginia – Reciprocity
Synopsis: Specifying that a license to carry a regulated firearm, including a concealed regulated firearm, issued to an individual by Delaware, Pennsylvania, or Virginia is valid in Maryland.
HEARING DATE: heard on 01-25-2011 SUPPORT

HB 91
Courts – Bankruptcy – Arms
Synopsis: Authorizing a person to claim an exemption in specified bankruptcy proceedings for arms in an amount not to exceed $2,000 in value; and applying the Act prospectively.
HEARING DATE: none scheduled SUPPORT

OPPOSE:

HB 252 – SB 239 (crossfiled bills)
Crimes – Possession of Loaded Handgun or Regulated Firearm – Enhanced Penalties
Synopsis: Prohibiting a person from wearing, carrying, or transporting a handgun loaded with ammunition on or about the person or in a vehicle under specified circumstances; prohibiting a person from possessing a regulated firearm loaded with ammunition under specified circumstances or if the person is under the age of 21 years; establishing penalties, including mandatory minimum terms of imprisonment, for violations of the Act; etc

Note: There is no provision exempting persons who have no prior criminal record and who are simply carrying a firearm for personal self-defense, and who cannot obtain a carry permit due to the restrictive anti-self defense policies of the Maryland State Police.

HOUSE HEARING DATE: none scheduled
SENATE HEARING DATE: 02-10-2011 OPPOSE

SB 161
Regulated Firearms – Applications for Dealer’s License – Record Keeping and Reporting Requirements
Synopsis: Requiring the Secretary of State Police or the Secretary’s designee to disapprove an application for a State-regulated firearms dealer’s license if the Secretary or designee determines that the applicant intends a specified person to participate or hold a specified interest in the management or operation of the business for which the license is sought; requiring licensed dealers to keep records of specified information; etc.

Note: Just another liberal anti-gun paper chase to make becoming a firearms dealer as onerous and unappealing as possible.

HEARING DATE: 02-10-2010 OPPOSE

SB 162 – HB ? (House crossfiled bill coming)
Firearms – Detachable Magazines – Maximum Capacity for Ammunition
Synopsis: Altering the maximum capacity for ammunition in a detachable magazine for a firearm that can be manufactured, sold, offered for sale, purchased, received, or transferred; and altering the number of rounds of ammunition in a magazine or an assault pistol which, when used by a person in the commission of a felony or crime of violence, results in that person being guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to specified penalties.

Note: Far be it from Senator Frosh to miss an opportunity to exploit the Tucson tragedy to further his anti-gun agenda.

HEARING DATE: 02-10-2011 STRONGLY OPPOSE
NO POSITION:

HB 79
Task Force to Study the Creation of a Maryland Center for School Safety
Synopsis: Creates yet another short-term “feel good” to study school safety and produce a report that few will ever hear of and fewer still will actually read.
HEARING DATE: 02-09-2011 NO POSITION

HB 161 – SB 174 (crossfiled bills)
Criminal Law – Use of Firearm in the Commission of a Crime of Violence or a Felony
Synopsis: Prohibiting the use of specified firearms in the commission of crimes of violence or felonies; and defining “firearm”.
HOUSE HEARING DATE: none scheduled
SENATE HEARING DATE: 02-10-2011
NO POSITION

HB 172 – SB 173 (crossfiled bills)
Criminal Law – Diminution Credits – Possession of a Regulated Firearm by Person Convicted of Crime of Violence
Synopsis: Decreasing the number of days per month that an inmate serving a term of confinement that includes a consecutive or concurrent sentence for a crime of possession of a regulated firearm by a specified person prohibited from possessing a regulated firearm is allowed as a deduction in advance from the inmate’s term of confinement; etc.
HOUSE HEARING DATE: none scheduled
SENATE HEARING DATE: 02-10-2011

NO POSITION

HB 241 – SB 240 (crossfiled bills)
Criminal Law – Restrictions Against Use and Possession of Firearms
Synopsis: Expanding to all firearms the prohibition against the use of a handgun or an antique firearm capable of being concealed on the person in the commission of a crime of violence or felony; increasing the maximum term of imprisonment applicable to a violation of the prohibition against possession of a regulated firearm by a person who was previously convicted of a crime of violence or a specified drug- related crime from 5 to 15 years; etc.
HOUSE HEARING DATE: none scheduled
SENATE HEARING DATE: 02-10-2011

NO POSITION AT THIS TIME – BILLS ARE CURRENTLY UNDER REVIEW

Tags: AGC, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, CCW Reciprocity Laws, Concealed Pistol Permits, Gun Bills, Maryland, Reciprocity

Carry Permit Reciprocity Bill on the Move While Senator Frosh Steps Up Attacks on Gun Owners

Ammoland — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 16:43:44 +0000

Carry Permit Reciprocity Bill on the Move While Anti Gun Senator Frosh Steps Up Attacks on Gun Owners

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(Ammoland.com)- The 2011 Session opened quietly but ominous storm clouds are on the horizon.

We no longer enjoy a 6-5 majority in the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee (JPR) and the voting mix of the House Judicial Proceedings Committee (JUD) is uncertain.

In the Senate, 37 incumbents remain, 7 former Delegates are now Senators, and 3 new members with no legislative experience in the Senate.

The House of Delegates now has 111 incumbents and 30 new members.

Over the next 4 years, your participation (or lack of participation) will determine the direction gun legislation will take. Martin O’Malley, riding on the crest of his decisive 2nd victory over Robert Ehrlich has no concern about being re-elected. Thus, he has nothing to fear if he decides to promote a Glendenning style gun control agenda.

The recent attack in Tucson has already become a springboard for gun control legislation across the nation which is being promoted by legislators who are not above exploiting a tragedy.

See you in Annapolis,

John H. Josselyn

Carry Permit Reciprocity Bill
Delegate Mike Smigiel’s carry permit reciprocity bill will be heard by the House Judiciary Committee in Room 101 of the House Office Building. If passed, this bill will cause Maryland to recognize concealed carry permits issued by Virginia, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Pennsylvania. This is the first step toward having full reciprocity which will make Maryland concealed carry permits valid in these states.

Click here to read or download HB9 (Note: West Virginia was omitted by Legislative Services and will be added to the scope of the bill by way of amendment when Delegate Smigiel introduces his bill before the Committee.)

Your support is needed to advance this bill. Last session, this same legislation failed in a 10-10 tie vote. Please focus your efforts on the following members of the committee (remember to keep your communications polite and respectful):

Joseph Vallario, Jr. – Chairman
Kathleen Dumais – Vice Chair
Curt Anderson
Sam Arora
Jill Carter
Luke Clippinger
Frank Conway
Susan Lee
Kiefer Mitchell Jr
Luiz Simmons
Geraldine Valentino-Smith
Kris Valderama

Click here to E-mail members the House Judiciary Committee

Senator Frosh Trolls for Sponsors for Anti-Gun Legislation
The following is the text of an actual email sent by Senator Frosh to members of the Maryland Senate requesting that they co-sponsor his (Frosh) gun control bills.

From: Frosh, Brian Senator
Sent: Tuesday, January 18, 2011 11:10 AM
Cc: Senate of Maryland
Subject: Cosponsor Request
Dear Colleague:
I am writing to ask you to consider cosponsoring two bills I plan to introduce.
One prohibits detachable gun magazines with capacities of more than 10 rounds.
The other directs the Secretary of State police to deny a dealer license to a gun store if a person ineligible for a license will be involved in the ownership or management of the establishment. This bill also enhances the record keeping and reporting obligations of gun dealers and allows the Secretary of State Police to suspend the licenses of dealers who fail to comply.
I have final copies of both bills and would be pleased to share. Please contact my office if you would like to cosponsor these bills: extension 3124.
Sincerely,
Brian Frosh

What more do we need to say…

Tags: AGC, Anti Gun Politicians, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, CCW Reciprocity Laws, Gun Bans, Gun Politics, High Capacity Magazines, Maryland, Reciprocity

Associated Gun Clubs Of Baltimore Candidate Recommendations

Ammoland — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 13:39:59 +0000

Associated Gun Clubs Of Baltimore Candidate Recommendations

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(Ammoland.com)- AmmoLand readers: this is when I remind you AGAIN of the critical importance of your vote in the General Election.

A very strong pro 2nd Amendment voter turn-out is critical. What you do or fail to do on election day will play a part in determining the political future of Maryland for at least the next 4 years.

Redistricting occurs every 10 years. The next Governor will have a key roll in deciding where the voting district lines will be drawn.

Print The Candidate Recommendations Sheet – See Link Below Take It With You To The Polls!

Please make a point of voting, urge your family members and friends to vote. Make copies of the candidate recommendations and distribute them. If you can, volunteer to be an election judge or work for your candidates at your voting precinct.

Best regards,

John H. Josselyn
Legislative Vice President
Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Inc.

About Our Recommendations And Comments On Some Of The Candidates

Our Methodology
When we make candidate recommendations, we are primarily concerned with the candidate’s position on 2nd Amendment issues. Unfortunately, the political landscape rarely presents us with clear cut decisions, especially when 2 or more candidates are equally qualified on 2nd Amendment criteria. We are then compelled to consider other factors as well.

There is probably no such thing as the perfect candidate. We must do the best we can for our members with the candidates who are running for election. Not recommending the best available candidate just because he or she is not the perfect candidate does a disservice to our members.

In a race between equally pro 2nd Amendment non-incumbent candidates, in addition to the candidate’s responses to our survey, any personal knowledge we have of the candidate, information from our members who bring their personal knowledge to our attention, related political experience, electability (being pro 2nd Amendment is not enough to get a candidate elected), the strength of the candidates personality.

When a race involves an incumbent running for re-election to the same seat or a different seat, the primary consideration is the incumbent’s past voting record. Many candidates know how to answer a questionnaire in order to gain the approval of this or that special interest group. Therefore, we consider candidate surveys to be of limited value, especially when an incumbent’s voting record is readily available. Talk is cheap, votes are what count.

The very last and least consideration is the candidate’s political party affiliation. Race, gender, creed and any personal connections or issues we may have with a candidate are never considerations.

Difficult Decisions
This election, we were faced with difficult choices in many of the Maryland General Assembly races. We ultimately recommended some of the candidates District 8, District 30 because they are incumbents with voting records.

We were very impressed with the following challengers and we believe that they would serve equally well if elected:

District 8 – Senate: Dee Hodges is a former member of Mt. Washington Rod & Gun Club who spent many sessions in Annapolis testifying in support of our 2nd Amendment Rights. As President and then Chairman of the Maryland Taxpayers Association, she has testified for passage of a Taxpayer Bill of Rights.
District 8 – House: Norma Secoura returned a perfect candidate survey and has related experience which would benefit her as a Delegate.
District 30 – Senate: Ron Elfenbein combines strong support for the 2nd Amendment with the energy and enthusiasm to make good things happen for the citizens of Maryland.
District 32 – House: Stephanie Hodges and David Starr, both presented solid pro-2nd Amendment candidate surveys and both are certainly worthy of serious consideration by gun owners in District 32.

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore Candidate 2010 Election Recommendations

Tags: AGC, Anti Gun Politicians, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Gun Politics, Maryland

Associated Gun Clubs Of Baltimore 2010 Election Candidate Recommendations

Ammoland — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 15:21:03 +0000

Associated Gun Clubs Of Baltimore 2010 Election Candidate Recommendations

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(Ammoland.com)- This is when I remind you of the critical importance of your vote in the General Election. What you do or fail to do on election day will play a part in determining the political future of Maryland for at least the next 4 years.

Our Methodology

When we make candidate recommendations, we are primarily concerned with the candidate’s position on 2nd Amendment issues. Unfortunately, the political landscape rarely presents us with clear cut decisions, especially when 2 or more candidates are equally qualified on 2nd Amendment criteria. We are then compelled to consider other factors as well.

In a race between equally pro 2nd Amendment non-incumbent candidates, in addition to the candidate’s responses to our survey, any personal knowledge we have of the candidate, information from our members who bring their personal knowledge to our attention, related political experience, electability (being pro 2nd Amendment is not enough to get a candidate elected), the strength of the candidates personality.

Talk is cheap, votes are what count.

Difficult Decisions

This election, we were faced with difficult choices in many of the Maryland General Assembly races. We ultimately recommended some of the candidates District 8, District 30 because they are incumbents with voting records. We were very impressed with the following challengers and we believe that they would serve equally well if elected:

District 8 – Senate: Dee Hodges is a former member of Mt. Washington Rod & Gun Club who spent many sessions in Annapolis testifying in support of our 2nd Amendment Rights. As President and then Chairman of the Maryland Taxpayers Association, she has testified for passage of a Taxpayer Bill of Rights.
District 8 – House: Norma Secoura returned a perfect candidate survey and has related experience which would benefit her as a Delegate.
District 30 – Senate: Ron Elfenbein combines strong support for the 2nd Amendment with the energy and enthusiasm to make good things happen for the citizens of Maryland.
District 32 – House: Stephanie Hodges and David Starr, both presented solid pro-2nd Amendment candidate surveys and both are certainly worthy of serious consideration by gun owners in District 32.

GENERAL ELECTION – CANDIDATE RECOMMENDATIONS

The Candidate Recommendations are in Adobe “PDF” embedded below.

Please click the link below to download and save the Candidate Recommendations “PDF” file. Forward the recommendation to your personal email list, club email list, friends, family members, etc..

Remember to take the Candidate Recommendations with you when you vote!

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore Candidate 2010 Election Recommendations

Best regards,

John H. Josselyn
Legislative Vice President
Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Inc.

Tags: AGC, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Elections, Endorsements, Gun Clubs, Gun Politics, Maryland

Utah Concealed Carry Firearms Permit Course

Ammoland — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:03:12 +0000

Utah Concealed Carry Firearms Permit Course
Honored In Approximately 30 States

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(Ammoland.com)- Want “Peace of Mind” when traveling out-of-state? It’s possible with a Utah CCW Firearm Permit.

Protect yourself and your loved ones when traveling to visit family or to a favorite vacation destination.

As a Non-Resident of Utah and Law Abiding Citizen, you may obtain a Concealed Carry Firearm Permit from the State of Utah. The Utah CCW Permit allows you, as a Maryland resident, to carry a handgun in approximately 30 states.

This permit does NOT allow you to carry in the State of Maryland, but it is recognized in all of our adjoining states including Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Ohio, the gateway to the Midwest.

This course will be hosted by; Concealed Carry Firearms Instructors Certified By The Utah Bureau Of Criminal Identification

WHERE:
Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore (AGC)-Patapsco Ranges
Trap Range Upper Campus -Memorial Hall
11518 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville, MD 21104

WHEN:
Saturday, September 04, 2010
(8:00-8:30 AM Check-In)
8:30 AM-1:30 PM Utah CFP Course

Ken Brown: 410-462-4682 · KBrown@theIOTAgroup.com
Bryan Fletcher: 410-796-7715 · GunTraining@verizon.net

UTAH CCW COURSE DOES NOT REQUIRE LIVE COURSE OF FIRE

COURSE FEE: $100.00 * INCLUDES *

Required Utah BCI Concealed Firearm Permit Classroom Instruction
Fingerprinting by Maryland CJIS Certified Technicians
Professionally Produced Passport/Permit Photographs
Express Postage to Utah

In addition to the $100 course fee, you will need to have available:

A non-refundable payment of $65.25 is to be included with your application. This fee consists of $35.00 for application and permit processing and $30.25 charged by F.B.I. to process the fingerprint card. The Bureau will accept check, money order or credit cards (VISA and MASTERCARD). Name and address must be imprinted on check. Make check or money order payable to the Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification. The Utah CCW Permit is valid for 5 years. The renewal fee is $10 and also valid for 5 years.

Total UTAH CCW COURSE AND PERMIT FEES:

$165.25 ($100 Registration Fee Required for inclusion on Roster)
Forms of Acceptable Payment for Course: Personal Checks, Money Orders, and Major Credit Cards: VISA, MC, Discover.
Note: Registration Fees are non-refundable, but may be applied to a future Utah CFP Course.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

US Citizen or Legal Alien at least 21 Years Old
Have Not Been Convicted of a Felony
Photocopy of Valid Driver’s License or State ID (included with course)
One Photograph of Passport Quality (included with course)
One FBI Fingerprint Card (included with course)
Firearm Familiarity Certification (included with course)
Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) Conducts Background Checks for All Applicants.

COURSE CONTENT:
The course is approximately 5 hours of classroom instruction and includes Safe Handgun Handling Rules, Nomenclature, Ammunition, Fundamentals of Pistol Shooting, How to Carry Concealed Options, Aggressive Behavior Management overview, Six Levels of Use of Force Continuum, Federal, State and Local Laws overview.

States having EITHER formal reciprocity with Utah OR that recognize the Utah CCW Permit:

· Alabama · Alaska · Arizona · Arkansas · Colorado · Delaware · Florida · Georgia · Idaho · Indiana · Kentucky ·Louisiana · Michigan · Minnesota · Mississippi · Missouri · Montana · Nebraska · New Hampshire · North Carolina · North Dakota · Ohio · Oklahoma · Pennsylvania · South Dakota · Tennessee · Texas · Utah · Vermont · Virginia · Washington State · West Virginia · Wyoming

NOTE:
This list can change without notice, and it is the permit holder’s responsibility to confirm which states honor or have annulled their reciprocity agreement with the State of Utah.

Not all states recognize an “out of state” or “non-resident” Utah CCW Permit. At the present time, several of the states listed above do not recognize “out of state” or “non-resident” Utah CCW Permits. This can change at any time.

An up to date list is provided by the State of Utah’s Bureau of Criminal Identification website. Click on the individual state links for information on that particular state’s reciprocity agreements with Utah.

http://www.publicsafety.utah.gov/bci/FAQother.html
http://www.publicsafety.utah.gov/bci/documents/reciprocity_003.pdf

Tags: AGC, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Concealed Carry, Maryland

On Look-a-Like Assault Weapons Maryland AG Disagrees with State Police

Ammoland — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 16:37:51 +0000

On Look-a-Like Assault Weapons Maryland AG Disagrees with State Police

GSG-5 Rifle with 10 Round Magazine

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(Ammoland.com)- In October of 2009, we reported on a new but unpublished Maryland State Police policy which declared certain .22 caliber rifles were copies of assault weapons and thus regulated firearms subject to the 7 day waiting period and background check as handguns.

The foggy logic behind this was that because they “looked like assault weapons,” then they must be assault weapons.

The Maryland State Police did not publish this new policy which resulted in an unknown number of persons who purchasing these firearms “illegally” from licensed dealers, while others were compelled to undergo the background check and waiting period.

Under pressure from the Maryland Licensed Firearms Dealers Association (MLFDA), the Secretary of the Maryland State Police requested an opinion from the Attorney General of Maryland. Delegate Kevin Kelly provided a detailed account of the legislative history and legislative intent of the “assault weapon” bill as signed into law in 1989.

The Attorney General responded with an opinion in support of the position held by the MLFDA. The Attorney General’s Opinion reads in part:

“In our opinion, to come within the definition of “regulated firearm,” a copy of a designated assault weapon must be similar in its internal components and function to the designated weapon. Cosmetic similarity to an enumerated assault weapon alone would not bring the firearm within the regulated firearms law. “

What will happen to the records of purchases and persons which were improperly registered as owning these firearms is still unclear. The AGC will pursue this matter with the Maryland State Police and request that all records of these purchases be purged from the MSP’s registration system.

The Attorney General’s Opinion plus referenced documents, can be found on the Legislative News page of the AGC website. Click here for the Attorney General’s Opinion

Still another victory for Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore.

Tags: AGC, Assault Weapons, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Firearms Registration, Gun Bans, MSP, State Police

Status Quo for Gun Owners Rights at 2010 Maryland General Session

Ammoland — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 00:29:52 +0000

Status Quo for Gun Owners Rights at 2010 Maryland General Session

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(AmmoLand.com)- The 2010 Session of the Maryland General is almost over. We lost nothing, and depending on the outcome of the conference committee on SB 411 Defense of Dwelling or Place of Business – Civil Immunity, we stand to gain a little. As amended, SB 411 is nothing to cheer about but at least we made a little progress.

Bob Ehrlich has finally declared his candidacy for Governor in the 2010 Gubernatorial Election. It remains to be seen whether or not Mr. Ehrlich will embrace the gun rights community. It was our experience with the Ellen Sauerbrey’s first and second campaigns that she did better with us than without us. In the second campaign, Ellen’s campaign managers apparently believed that if she kept a low profile on gun rights that Glendenning’s campaign would not bring up guns as a campaign issue. They were wrong.

Click here for the Bob Ehrlich for Maryland website.

The next event in our immediate future is the 2nd Amendment Rally in Washington, D.C. on Monday, April 19, 2010 which is Patriots’ Day. This date commemorates the battles of Lexington & Concord.

The AGC has contracted for 2 buses with multiple pick-up locations to make it easy to attend the rally. You won’t have the opportunity to shoot any Redcoats but you will have a good time.

We still have seats available. We need your participation and support to make this event a success. Click here to reserve your seat on an AGC rally bus.

The 2010 Election is our best chance in decades to take back our country from the liberal left that seems bent on destroying our economy, mortgaging our future, making our health care decisions, and in general pushing us ever closer to socialism.

John H. Josselyn
AGC Legislative Vice President

Tags: AGC, Anti Gun Bills, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Gun Bills, Gun Politics, Maryland, Pro Gun News

2nd Amendment March – Washington, D.C. Rally – AGC Bus Trip to Rally

Ammoland — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 00:22:11 +0000

2nd Amendment March – Washington, D.C. Rally – AGC Bus Trip to Rally

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(AmmoLand.com)- The 2nd Amendment March national rally in support of our 2nd Amendment Rights will be held on the Mall in Washington, D.C., on Monday, April 19, 2010.

Why is it important for you to participate in the 2nd Amendment Rally?

Beyond the obvious need to support the 2nd Amendment, there is the political impact of thousands of law abiding citizens traveling to the nation’s capitol to exercise their rights.

The Obama administration has succeeded in ramming socialized medical care through congress, it now has time to focus on other issues. We have a vested interest in demonstrating that degrading the 2nd Amendment is not an option.
Maryland gun owners spent untold thousands of dollars on ammunition in response to the election of Mr. Obama. Buying ammunition does not send a message to Congress. Stand up for what you believe; show Congress that you are personally committed to protecting your rights!

Join us for the 2nd Amendment March Rally in Washington, D.C. which is being organized and sponsored by the 2nd Amendment March.

The Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore (AGC) has reserved two 54 passenger buses to provide comfortable, stress free transportation to and from the rally. Enjoy the camaraderie of fellow shooters, perhaps catch up with old friends, and make some new friends.

In order to accommodate as many persons as possible, the buses will leave from different locations, each will make intermediate stops as noted below and the buses will rendezvous at the Broken Land Park & Ride West. The buses will then travel together to the 2nd Amendment March Rally. Each bus will make the same stops on the return trip as needed.

The AGC is now using a new system to register participants and receive payments by credit card or personal PayPal account on a secure Internet connection.

Please note that the system requires that each person be registered separately AND by the bus you wish to ride in order to avoid overbooking the buses. Once we have reached 54 guests on a bus, the system will no longer accept additional bookings for that bus.

The AGC must pay in advance for the bus rental and therefore all bookings are final. No refunds will be made for any reason.

Seats are still available on both buses. However, experience has shown that many people wait too long and are then disappointed. The last week before an event always produces a last minute rush. Reserve your seat now. Support our effort to defend the 2nd Amendment from domestic enemies of the United States Constitution.

Cost: $25.00 per seat (less that the cost of single 50 round box of .45 ACP ammunition)

Click here for more information and to reserve your seat for this important event.

This is a rain or shine outdoor event. Please bring whatever food, drink, equipment or supplies you anticipate needing, e.g. blanket, chair, sunscreen, lunch, beverages (no alcohol, wine or beer) “backyard type” sunshades. Please review DC’s gun laws.

Tags: AGC, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Pro Gun Rallys, Second Amendment March, Washington DC

2nd Amendment Rally in Washington, DC Bus Trip – Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Ammoland — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 14:35:30 +0000

2nd Amendment Rally in Washington, DC Bus Trip – Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore
Monday, April 19, 2010

To Where: Washington Monument Mall Washington, DC
When: Monday, April 19, 2010 10:00 AM – to – 4:00 PM

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(AmmoLand.com)- Join us for the Washington, D.C. rally in support of the 2nd Amendment sponsored by the 2nd Amendment March. Click here for the 2nd Amendment March Home Page.

The Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore (AGC) has reserved two 54 passenger buses to provide comfortable, stress free transportation to and from the rally. Enjoy the comradery of fellow shooters, perhaps catch up with old friends, and make some new friends.

The AGC is now using a new system to register participants and receive payments by credit card or personal PayPal account on a secure Internet connection.

The AGC must pay in advance for the bus rental and therefore all bookings are final. No refunds will be made for any reason.

Click a link below to register for the bus you wish to ride on.

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

Bus #1

Departs:

Timonium Park & Ride
Greenspring Drive, North of Timonium Road

Departs Timonium Park & Ride at 8:00 AM

Intermediate Stops at:

Catonsville Park & Ride
Rt. 166, Rt. 195 & Rolling Rd.

Departs Catonsville Park & Ride at 8:40 AM

Broken Land Park & Ride West
Rt. 32 & Broken Land Parkway

Departs Broken Land Park & Ride at 9:00 AM

Click here to register for Bus #1 – Timonium Park & Ride Greenspring Drive – North of Timonium Road

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

Bus #2

Departs:

AGC Marriottsville Trap Range
11518 Marriottsville Road

Departs AGC Marriottsville at 8:00 AM

Intermediate Stops at:

Rt 32 & I 70 Park & Ride
Rt. 32 .25 miles North of I-70

Departs Rt. 32 Park & Ride at 8:25 AM

Broken Land Park-n-Ride WEST
Rt. 32 & Broken Land Parkway

Departs Broken Land Park & Ride at 9:00 AM

Click here to register for Bus #2 – AGC Marriottsville Trap Range – 11518 Marriottsville Road

The 2nd Amendment March has provided the following Rally Rules and Code of Conduct:

NO UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF FIREARMS.
If you do not intend to comply with item #1, do not attend.
If you break the law, Second Amendment March and the AGC will not be responsible.
It is each attendee’s own personal responsibility to be familiar with the firearm laws in the areas in which he/she will be traveling.
Please be courteous to everyone you encounter, including D.C. police and National Park Service rangers.
Please be sure to dispose of all trash. Let’s strive to leave the grounds in better condition than when we arrive.
If you have any concerns while at the event, please notify a volunteer or event organizer immediately.
Your attendance at the Second Amendment March indicates your intent to comply with these rules/code of conduct and all local and federal laws.

This is a rain or shine outdoor event. Please bring whatever food, drink,equipment or supplies you anticipate needing, e.g. blanket, chair, sunscreen, lunch, beverages (no alcohol, wine or beer).

Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.

Sincerely,

John H. Josselyn, Legislative Vice President
Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Inc.
Maryland Coordinator – 2nd Amendment March

lvp@associatedgunclubs.org
410-296-3947

Tags: AGC, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Pro Gun Rallys, Second Amendment, Second Amendment March, Second Amendment Rally, Washington

Why Do Maryland Politicians Fear Your Guns?

Ammoland — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:51:15 +0000

Why Do Maryland Politicians Fear Your Guns?

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland – -(AmmoLand.com)- Perhaps the answer lies in the Declaration of Rights in the Constitution of Maryland:

DECLARATION OF RIGHTS.
We, the People of the State of Maryland, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberty, and taking into our serious consideration the best means of establishing a good Constitution in this State for the sure foundation and more permanent security thereof, declare:

Article 1. That all Government of right originates from the People, is founded in compact only, and instituted solely for the good of the whole; and they have, at all times, the inalienable right to alter, reform or abolish their Form of Government in such manner as they may deem expedient.

Click here for the on-line version of the Maryland Constitution.

Tags: AGC, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Gun Rights, Maryland

Do Letters to Elected Officials Make a Difference in Support of Gun Rights?Do Letters to Elected Officials Make a Difference in Support of Gun Rights?

Ammoland — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 12:53:53 +0000

Do Letters to Elected Officials Make a Difference in Support of Gun Rights?

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland – -(AmmoLand.com)- There is a common misconception among gun owners that writing to elected official is a futile effort and a waste of time.

Some use this as an excuse to make themselves feel less guilty about doing nothing. Others unfortunately, truly believe this to be true.

Letters Do Make A Difference : Click to See

Those in the first category are fooling only themselves and those in the second category are simply wrong.

The following is a letter from the AGC asking the sponsor to withdraw the legislation. It was faxed on Friday, February 19, 2010. It was not read until late Monday afternoon on February 22, 2010.

The sponsor considered AGC’s & MSI’s positions and arguments regarding the unintended consequences SB 743 would produce and he withdrew the bill 3 days later.

The bottom line: Letters do matter.

Tags: AGC, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Gun Activists, Gun Politics, Letters to the Editor

Second Amendment March in Washington, D.C.

Ammoland — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 06:42:16 +0000

Second Amendment March in Washington, D.C.

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland – -(AmmoLand.com)- We will assemble on the northeast corner of the Washington Monument grounds at 10:00 a.m. The entire program will take place there. After speaking with D.C. police and the National Park Service, we decided that it would be logistically difficult to stage an actual “march”. We would rather put our time and energy into making the rally the best that it can be!

When: April 19, 2010 (10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
Where: Washington Monument grounds, Washington, D.C.

For information on the D.C. area and getting around D.C., please visit the D.C. Guide.

You can find detailed metro routes (bus and rail) via the D.C. Metro Transit Authority site.

The AGC will organize a bus (or buses) to and from the event if there is sufficient interest to cover the cost. Bus rentals are expensive and must be paid in advance. The number of buses and the departure locations will be determined by the number and location of persons who wish to participate.

Look for a Second Amendment March AGC bus trip announcement next week!

Tags: AGC, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, DC March, Maryland, Second Amendment March

Anti-Gun Brian Frosh Turns on the “Political Spin”

Ammoland — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 23:40:09 +0000

Anti-Gun Brian Frosh Turns on the “Political Spin” to Re-invent Firearm Safety Act of 2010
But its for firearms safety who could be against that…LOL – AmmoLand.com

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland – -(AmmoLand.com)- The following excerpts are from an email sent by Senator Brian Frosh to his email list on February 24, 2010. The comments for and aft have been inserted to point out some of the hard facts that Senator Frosh is attempting to spin his way around.

Senator Frosh’s email is clearly in response to the Washington Times editorial of 2-19-2010 and the Montgomery Gazette article which appeared the same day. The Times has been consistent; however, the article in the Gazette was not the liberal fluff we have seen in the past.

It appears that Senator Frosh knows that his bill is in for a rough ride. Look for him to attempt to soften the bill in an effort to get it out of committee with the hope of amending the bill to its original form on the Senate floor. We must be vigilant for similar moves in the House on the cross file version, HB 820.

In a letter to Frosh stated: “Dear Friend, The legislative session is in full swing and I wanted to update you on a vital public safety issue. Earlier this month, I introduced the Firearms Safety Act of 2010, a bill aimed mainly at reining in dealers who sell to gun traffickers. Senator Frosh”

Exactly what does a “Firearm Safety Act” have to do with gun traffickers? And don’t we already have mandatory safety training?

The original title was Firearm Accountability Act of 2010 – Why did you change it?

Which dealers are selling to gun traffickers?

Didn’t you tell us that 1 gun a month would prevent straw purchases and gun trafficking?

If this bill is aimed at dealers, why do citizens have to obtain a license / ID to exercise a Constitutional right?

Does this mean you won’t offer an amendment to remove the license / ID provision????

Frosh went on to say: “Two editorials about the bill have appeared since I introduced it: one in the Washington Post, the other in the Washington Times. Together, they are a tale of two cities. In one-the Post’s-the bill is an overdue, responsible effort to reduce murders in Maryland, where the homicide rate is third highest in the nation and over 70 percent of the deaths involve firearms.”

Senator Frosh, if as you say, Maryland’s homicide rate is the third highest in the nation, how do you explain that all of the “shall issue” concealed handgun permit states contiguous to Maryland have lower homicide rates?

Is this just another case of us “They’re not in touch with reality” as you described those who oppose SB 645 when you were recently quoted in the February 19th edition of the Montgomery Gazette?

“In the other-the Times’-the bill is Satan’s spawn, an infringement on fundamental American rights, the harbinger of a coming police state.
The Times editorial contains breath-taking factual errors about the bill itself. But the two editorials together show the extreme divergence of views about firearms in Maryland, and, almost certainly, in the whole nation. They show again why this is such a difficult issue to address. Judge for yourself:”

Whoa, just a minute! Help us out here Senator, exactly where are the “breath-taking errors” in the Times editorial? This sounds strangely reminiscent of the problems you claimed were in the civil immunity bill last session, yet were unable to document.

Tags: AGC, Anti Gun Politicians, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Gun Banners, Gun Bans, Gun Bills, Gun Politics, Maryland

Call To Arms – The Gun Bill Legislative Season Is Upon Us

Ammoland — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 16:28:27 +0000

Call To Arms – The Gun Bill Legislative Season Is Upon Us

Maryland State Rifle and Pistol Association

Maryland - -(AmmoLand.com)- Gun bill day in Annapolis is March 11. The Judicial Proceedings Committee in both houses of the legislature will simultaneously debate various gun bills starting at 1:00 pm.

This simultaneous hearing procedure is apparently intended to divide by 50% the support of the pro gun constituency.

Therefore, it is critically important that we maximize our participation and attendance in the process this year. It is imperative that you communicate to your legislators your opposition or support of the various bills, as appropriate.

This also means, we need your presence in Annapolis on March 11. We need a larger presence to battle their strategy.

Please remember to dress appropriately. Business casual is acceptable. Be polite and courteous. Do not be confrontational, keep your message concise.

Our legislative representative is partnering with the AGC in reviewing pending gun related legislation. The link here will direct you to the AGC legislative web page where recommendations on the pending bills are provided.

Use the link below to contact your legislators and voice your opinions.

http://www.ksconline.net/

You can call them at either 410-841-xxxx, 301-858-xxxx or (toll free) 800-492-7122 extension xxxx. Do this before March 8.

Key House Judiciary Committee members include :

Curtis ANDERSON 3291 Gerron LEVI 3101
Ben BARNES 3046 Susan McCOMAS 3272
Jill CARTER 3283 Tony McCONKEY 3406
Frank CONAWAY 3189 Victor RAMIREZ 3340
Kathleen DUMAIS 3052 Todd SCHULER. 3526
William FRANK 3793 Luiz SIMMONS 3037
J.B. JENNINGS 3698 Mike SMIGIEL 3555
Kevin KELLY 3404 Kris VALDERRAMA 3210
Ben KRAMER 3485 Joe VALLARIO 3488
Susan LEE 3649 Jeff WALDSTREICHER 3130

Key Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee members include:

Jim BROCHIN 3648
Jennie FOREHAND 3134
Lisa GLADDEN 3697
Larry HAINES 3683
Nancy JACOBS 3158
Alex MOONEY 3575
Tony MUSE 3092
Jamie RASKIN 3634
Bryan SIMONAIRE 3658
Norm STONE 3587

Here is a link to all MD gun related bills. http://mlis.state.md.us/2010rs/subjects/guns.htm

About:
The Maryland State Rifle and Pistol Association (MSRPA) is the flagship Gun Rights organization in and for the State of Maryland. The Association offers both individual and club memberships. Support of the shooting disciplines and legislative activities is primarily through a systems of committees. All participants are volunteers.
In the face of a near tidal wave of citizen disarmament occurring in Maryland, the MSRPA has played a critical part in drawing the line and standing firm for Gun Rights. Without this resistance, things would have been much worse and been so much sooner. Now the objective is to continue to develop new activists with numerous individual skills who will help us bring Maryland into line with the rest of the states which have made strong gains in protecting the Right to Keep and Bear Arms. Visit: www.msrpa.org

Tags: AGC, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Gun Activists, Gun Bills, Gun Politics, Maryland, Maryland State Rifle and Pistol Association, MSRPA, Pro Gun Groups

Racist Maryland Gun Bill Will Label You a ‘Gun Owner’ on your DRLC

Ammoland — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 15:17:41 +0000

New Racist Maryland Gun Bill Will Label You a ‘Gun Owner’ on your DRLC
“This kind of Gun Owner Discrimination is the same as if your DRLC labeled you as being Jewish or Gay. – AmmoLand.com” Read more on why we think this is civil discrimination.

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland – -(AmmoLand.com)- If Brian Frosh and Samuel Rosenberg have their way, Maryland’s gun owners will be singled out for “Special Treatment” and branded as “gun owners” on their driver’s license.

The rumors were true and we are now facing the 2 most onerous and dangerous bills ever filed in the Maryland General Assembly. They are SB 645 & HB 820 “Firearm Safety Act of 2010.” These bills are cross filed (identical) bills in the House and the Senate. Despite the politically correct bill titles, they are not about safety.

They are about gun owner control.

The sole purpose of these bills is to discourage the ownership of handguns by increasing the cost, establishing a series of hurdles that citizens must negotiate, providing the Maryland State Police (MSP) with more ways to deny an handgun purchase, and enabling the MSP to build a database of rifle and shotgun owners via dealer’s records.

Highlights of the Licensing Scheme are:

Handgun purchase permit just to qualify to apply to purchase a handgun (the 7 day wait and background check will still be required)
Non-refundable fee to cover the cost of applying for a purchase permit
Training course approved by the Maryland State Police (existing training course may or may not be acceptable and course requirements will be determined by the MSP)
Applicant must apply to the Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) for a national and state criminal records check – this will include fingerprints which now must be scanned at a cost up to $60 which must be paid by the applicant
Applicant must provide any other identifying information or documentation required by the Maryland State Police
30 Day wait for the purchase permit (add 7 days for the normal background check)
Handgun purchase permit is only valid for 5 years
New application, fingerprints and application fee are required to renew a purchase permit
MSP may revoke a purchase permit
Greatly increased penalties for a violation – some with mandatory minimum prison sentence provisions
MSP will have ready access to all dealer’s records (a great resource for building a database of gun owners who own rifles and shotguns)

For the purpose of obtaining a license to purchase a handgun, persons with 2 DUI convictions, 1 of which occurred within the past 5 years, will be prohibited from obtaining a license

It is uncertain whether or not a “gun owner” designation on a driver’s license will constitute “probable cause” to search a vehicle during a routine traffic stop.

How are we doing so far?
Since the last AGC Legislative E-mail on these bills was sent, 627 readers have opened the AGC e-mail and 258 clicked on the links. Only 149 used the Civic Action E-mail System. If the 149 readers who used the E-mail system sent e-mails to all of the legislators, they sent a total of 27,863 e-mails to the Maryland General Assembly. If all 627 readers who opened the AGC email had used the Civic Action E-mail System, the total would have been a very impressive 117,249!!

Most of us will be snowed in today, which means we have more than enough time to send e-mails, write letters to legislators and the media opposing SB 645 & HB 820.

We have done everything we can think of to make it easy for you to defend your rights. The rest is up to you!

Make your voice heard, tell the Maryland General Assembly that requiring a license to exercise your Constitutional rights is wrong!

Click here for the SB 645 / HB 820 ACTION ALERT with links to SB 645 & HB 820

Click here for the Civic Action E-mail System

John H. Josselyn
AGC Legislative Vice President

Tags: AGC, Anti Gun Politicians, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Civil Rights, Gun Bills, Gun Owner Discrimination, Handgun Registration, Maryland, Racist

Gun Rights Seminar “The Political Process & Guns”

Ammoland — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 19:11:20 +0000

Gun Rights Seminar “The Political Process & Guns”

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Marriottsville, MD - -(AmmoLand.com)- We invite you to join us and our guest speaker, Former Delegate Al Redmer for an informative seminar: “The Political Process & Guns.”

Learn how and why Maryland’s gun laws became what they are, and what you can do to help restore the “Free State” to a “Free State.”

The Political Process & Guns
Learn about the Political Process & How Things REALLY Work

Topics include:

Political reality of politics and guns!
How Government Impacts the Sale and Distribution of Firearms (law vs regulation)
The Legislative Process ( how an “idea” becomes a law )
Overview of Legislative Committees ( who matters most)
How legislators make decisions
Our Objective ( in dealing with legislators)
What’s the Message??
Tools at your disposal
Who influences a legislator…..and how ??
A step-by-step process for lobbying a legislator….effectively!!!!

Seminar Schedule & Time
Date & Time: Thursday, February 4, 2010 – 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM

Location: Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore – Barnes Range House
11518 Marriottsville Road
Marriottsville, MD 21104
(enter off Wards Chapel Road)

Light refreshments will be available before and after the seminar.

Seating is limited! RSVP no later than Sunday, January 31, 2010

Click here to RSVP and reserve your seat!

About our Guest Speaker
Al Redmer, Jr. is a lifetime Maryland resident with a strong background in business, government and community service. Redmer will use his vast experience of government and politics to instruct us on how to effectively lobby our position to government officials.

Redmer is a partner and President of Landmark Insurance & Financial Group, a full service- diversified organization serving individuals and businesses throughout the mid-Atlantic region.

Prior to joining Landmark, Redmer served as Chief Executive Officer for Coventry Health Care of Delaware, Inc. (CHCD), a managed care organization serving members in Delaware, Maryland, southeastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey.

Previous to Coventry, Redmer served as the Maryland Insurance Commissioner. Appointed by Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr., in June, 2003, Redmer oversaw an annual budget of $21 million and worked to foster a balanced marketplace that allowed for vigorous consumer protection while promoting healthy competition among insurance carriers.

Prior to receiving the appointment, Redmer served as the House Minority Leader in the Maryland General Assembly. First elected in 1990, he represented the Eighth Legislative District in Baltimore County. While a legislator, Redmer served on the House Environmental Matters Committee (1991-2002), which was responsible for all natural resources legislation. He also served on the House Health and Government Operations Committee in 2003.

An avid sportsman, Redmer is a long-time member of the Baltimore County Fish & Game Association and Maryland Saltwater Sports-fishing Association.

AGC Note: Al Redmer is re-entering the political arena in the 2010 election as a candidate for the Senate seat in Maryland’s 7th District.

Best regards,

John H. Josselyn
Legislative Vice President

Tags: AGC, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Gun Rights, Gun Seminars, Maryland

2010 Maryland Session Gun Bills

Ammoland — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 21:26:50 +0000

2010 Maryland Session Gun Bills

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland – -(AmmoLand.com)- Your help and support is needed for HB 52 (see below). The Virginia Citizens Defense League (VCDL) has made tremendous use of the Civic Action E-mail system to pack the e-mail inboxes of the House Judiciary Committee members.

This bill is an excellent first step on the road to reforming Maryland’s descriminatory policies on permits to carry a concealed handgun for lawful self-defense. The VCDL is doing its part to help us, we need to do our part to help ourselves!

Click here for the Civic Action E-mail System

Pro-Gun Rights Bills
HB 52 Regulated Firearms – License Issued by Delaware, Pennsylvania, or Virginia – Reciprocity
(STRONGLY SUPPORT HB 52)

SB 22 Criminal Law – Prohibitions on Wearing, Carrying, or Transporting Firearms – Exceptions

(pro-gun rights only because protects persons who have been ordered to surrender their firearms from being arrested and prosecuted for transporting firearms in order to surrender them as has happened in Prince George’s County)

Anti-Gun Rights
SB 167 Regulated Firearms – Application for Dealer’s License – Record-Keeping and Reporting
(OPPOSE)

SB 191 Weapon-Free Higher Education Zones
(STRONGLY OPPOSE)

Neutral
HB 3 Business Regulation – Employees Who Carry Firearms – Protective Body Armor

HB 119 Department of State Police – Firearms Applications – Authority of Secretary
(Despite its ominous title, this bill authorizes the Secretary to adopt more efficient means to transmit purchase applications to the MSP licensing division. However, the language provides far too much latitude to the Secretary and needs to be more specific.)

Crime Related
SB 22 Criminal Law – Prohibitions on Wearing, Carrying, or Transporting Firearms – Exceptions

HB 157 Criminal Law – Use of Firearm in the Commission of a Crime of Violence or a Felony
SB 44 Criminal Law – Use of Firearm in the Commission of a Crime of Violence or a Felony
(Note: HB 157 & SB 44 are crossfiled bills)

SB 125 Criminal Procedure – Strip Search or Body Cavity Search of an Arrestee – Restrictions

Hunting & Trapping
SB 33 Natural Resources – Right to Hunt, Fish, and Harvest Wild Game

SB 259 Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s Counties – Deer Hunting

Expected
HB ?? Victims of Crime – Burglary and Crimes of Violence – Civil Immunity

HB ?? Public Safety – Handgun Permits – Repeal of Finding Requirement

Suspected
Bill to require a higher standard of “probable cause” before a no-knock SWAT search warrant can be issued. (Still no hard information on this)

Bill to authorize electronic filing of 77R forms as an alternative to sending hard copies via postal service. (This was filed as HB 119)

Bill to impose criminal penalties for persons with a concealed carry permit who are charged with carrying a concealed firearm in “violation” of the MSP’s already draconian restrictions. (Still no hard information on this)

Another attempt to require the registration of all ammunition purchases. (Still no hard information on this)

Tags: AGC, Anti Gun Bills, Anti Gun Politicians, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Gun Bills, Maryland, VCDL, Virginia Citizens Defense League

2010 Maryland Gun Bills: Pre-filed, Expected and or Suspected

Ammoland — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 18:36:39 +0000

2010 Maryland Gun Bills: Pre-filed, Expected and or Suspected

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland - -(AmmoLand.com)- The 2010 Session of the Maryland General Assembly will convene for 90 days beginning next Wednesday, January 13, 2010.

At present, neutral or pro-gun bills have been reported on the MLIS website.

No doubt this will change in the very near future, so vigilance is the watchword.

Pre-Filed Gun Related Bills

HB 3 Business Regulation – Employees Who Carry Firearms – Protective Body Armor
HB 55 Regulated Firearms – License Issued by Delaware, Pennsylvania, or Virginia – Reciprocity
SB 22 Criminal Law – Prohibitions on Wearing, Carrying, or Transporting Firearms – Exceptions
SB 44 Criminal Law – Use of Firearm in the Commission of a Crime of Violence or a Felony

Expected Gun Related Bills

HB ?? Victims of Crime – Burglary and Crimes of Violence – Civil Immunity
HB ?? Public Safety – Handgun Permits – Repeal of Finding Requirement

Suspected Gun Related Bills

Bill to require a higher standard of “probable cause” before a no-knock SWAT search warrant can be issued.
Bill to authorize electronic filing of 77R forms as an alternative to sending hard copies via postal service.
Bill to impose criminal penalties for persons with a concealed carry permit who are charged with carrying a concealed firearm in “violation” of the MSP’s already draconian restrictions.
Another attempt to require the registration of all ammunition purchases.

Tags: AGC, Ammunition Registration, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Gun Bills, Gun Politics, Maryland

What to do if Maryland State Police Question You About Your Guns

Ammoland — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 18:26:57 +0000

What to do if Maryland State Police Question You About Your Guns

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland - -(AmmoLand.com)- Several Maryland attorneys commented on the recent reports of private citizens being questioned by the Maryland State Police regarding the firearms they currently own. Please note that the following comments shall not be considered legal advice. In matters of law, always consult with your own attorney.

Attorney #1:
I think my position will be that the police do not have authority to do this. Any cooperation on the part of the homeowner will be voluntary. There is no regulation as of this date either by statute or regulation to permit the MSP to perform home inspections of registered or regulated firearms by MSP. Perhaps we will have to create a test case and sue them to stop this activity. I think that may be their purpose, i.e. to get some case law on the books.

Intrusions into one’s home by law enforcement personnel still requires a warrant. A warrant requires a statement of probable cause by police as to why they need the warrant, then a judge must agree and sign same. Without a warrant a home owner may refuse the intrusion by police unless they are in pursuit of a fleeing felon.

If police are inside one’s home and they see the fruits or instrumentalities of a crime then they may seize the evidence, even if their reasons for being in the dwelling are unrelated to the evidence seen in “plain view.”

It would seem that the MSP are attempting to expand the Code of Maryland Administrative Regulations (COMAR) regarding regulated firearms and checking up on people at random who they have some suspicion about. We should look for any pattern in these visits to see if my theory can be supported. Maybe these people would talk to us in strict confidence to see if there were any possible reasons why they attracted police attention. I think the MSP are attempting to carve out a regulatory or enforcement mechanism from the regs that essentially says,” If we have any authority to administer these laws and regs then we have to know what the data base is that we must regulate.”

If that is their goal then it is very sinister and is the “registration, regulation,” predicate to confiscation that we all fear.

Probably the strategy for Joe homeowner when faced with a random MSP check is to say:1) Why are you here? 2) Do you have a warrant? 3) If answer is NO then speak outside the dwelling to the MSP officers and be polite but firm. 4) If you have no warrant then under what authority are you here? 5) If homeowner feels threatened by the answers then have Joe say I will speak to you once I have contacted my attorney and only in his presence.

Other than this we can get in trouble for giving out legal advice or perhaps obstructing justice if there is a legitimate investigation.

Attorney #2:
You have posed an interesting question in what your members should do when the Maryland State Police come knocking on the door. To answer that question, there are basically two (2) trains of thought. First, is to be compliant and do what the police ask. The second, is to use the US and State Constitutions and their protection. Each has merit, depending on your personality and beliefs. Likewise, each train of thought has its disadvantages. While I cannot address every situation that may arise when the MSP come to a person’s house, there are two (2) tactics that have been utilized by most police departments across the US; the search warrant and/or the knock and talk policy. Each individual should seek independent legal advice for his or her situation.

Under the search warrant, there is only one position that you can take and that is to allow the police to do their job or you may and will be arrested for obstruction. Basically, with a search warrant, there has been a Judge who has already determined there was probable cause to search for whatever the police may be looking for and issued the search warrant. It is not for you, at the time of the search, to try and challenge the validity of the warrant. In addition, sometimes when the police has a search warrant, it may be better to tell the officers where the items are that they are looking for to prevent total destruction to your house. Just a thought. Lastly, I would immediately contact an attorney.

The knock and talk policy use to be used during the course of an investigation, ie, solving a crime. It is a useful tool to the police and many crimes have been solved using this tactic. Apparently, now there certain members of the MSP that have decided, for whatever reason, to knock and talk with law abiding citizen’s regarding their ownership of their firearms. There is nothing illegal about doing this. The police have every right to knock on your door and ask you questions. However, there is no law that states you must talk to them or answer the questions. Contrary, the 5th Amendment of the US Constitution protects the right against self-incrimination.

When the police first knock on the door, the initial reaction is to be submissive and/or compliant, to do as you are asked and not question why they are there. There is absolutely nothing wrong with this reaction. However, what I would advise your members to do is to politely ask the reason why they are asking for this information from them or what the police are there to search for and why. If it is a legitimate investigation the officers will explain such. If the officers are there for a legitimate reason it is still optional to cooperate. It could be that they are trying to see if you have information about a crime that you may have witnessed or an accident or if you saw something that may be useful. There are a variety of legitimate reasons.

On the other hand, if the officers are there for what is not a legitimate reason or does not appear to be a legitimate investigation, I would politely ask for the officers name, badge number and unit. (In addition to obtaining the other information you suggested in a previous news letter). I would tell them that you need to contact an attorney to speak with them first before answering anymore questions. Asking to speak with a lawyer usually ends the meeting. In fact, if they are there for a legitimate reason, they may even give you the name and number of the lead officer and/or Assistant State’s Attorney for your attorney to contact.

Likewise, if they ask your members to produce a firearm and/or show the officers their firearms, I would ask if they have a search warrant. Usually such request is meet with intimidation and threats that they could go get one and then arrest you once they return. Threats to that extent, at least to my understanding, is against MSP policy. Furthermore, if they had enough probably cause in the first place, they would have obtained a search warrant prior to coming to the home and more likely than not, when dealing with a firearm, would not knock. It is an idle threat that is meant to make you compliant and has worked in a number of occasions. If the officers make such a threat, I would advise them to obtain a search warrant and politely ask them to leave. DO NOT get belligerent. If you give the officers a reason to arrest you, they will, and then a whole number of other factors come into play. Once the officers leave, I would immediately contact an attorney. If it is determined that there was no legitimate reason for the officers to be there I would write a letter to the Superintendent of the State Police, your state and federal senators and legislatures advising them of this harassment. If enough complaints are received the issue will be addressed.

Notwithstanding, the police do not have the right to enter your home without a warrant and/or being invited in by you or another occupant. If you do invite them in, you can ask them to leave at anytime. I hope that this helps.

Tags: AGC, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Gun Rights, Maryland, Maryland State Police, MSP, State Police

Season’s Greetings from the Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Ammoland — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 14:07:43 +0000

Season’s Greetings from the Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Seasons Greetings Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(AmmoLand.com)- Season’s Greetings!!

Wishing you…every happiness this Holiday Season and prosperity in the New Year.

All the best to you and your family

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Inc.

Tags: AGC, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Holidays

Anti Self-Defense Senator Reacts to Gun Rights Mailing

Ammoland — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:22:07 +0000

Anti Self-Defense Senator Reacts to Gun Rights Mailing

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(AmmoLand.com)- During the 2009 Session it became obvious that once again, Senator Brian Frosh was going to impose his personal bias and single-handedly stop the progress of the bill to establish civil immunity for person who are forced to defend themselves.

Thousands of emails poured into the Maryland General Assembly via the Civic Action Email system.

Frosh dismissed the outcry by saying that no one in his district had contacted him.

Maryland's Anti Gun Senator Brian Frosh

In response, gun rights groups send a specifically targeted postcard mailing to Frosh’s voting precinct.

The post cards were dropping at the post office on Tuesday, March 31, 2009. Frosh immediately felt the heat. On Friday, April 3, 2009, Frosh posted a Blog on his website in a lame and disingenuous attempt to “justify” that which cannot be justified.

Senator Frosh’s Blog on SB 420 Civil Immunity Bill

Blog
SB420
Posted Apr 03 at 11 AM
Nearly 1,100 bills were introduced in the Maryland Senate this year. Unfortunately, more than a handful were “solutions in search of problems.” These bills were red herrings, generated by interest groups concerned with keeping their members engaged in the legislative process.
Senate Bill 420 is a classic example of a red herring.
Under current law, you may use reasonable force to repel a home invader without the risk of civil liability. Yet the Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore and other pro-gun groups that support SB 420 claim that you could be sued by a home invader. They argue that their bill would solve that problem. They are wrong.
SB 420 would allow you to use violence against an intruder who breaks into your home with the intent to commit a burglary or crime of violence. The bill would deny you protection if you acted with malice or gross negligence. These terms – intent, malice, and gross negligence – would give rise to disputes that will fuel civil suits.
SB 420 would repeal the longstanding rule that you may act reasonably in defense of your home. Protecting unreasonable actions is, perhaps by definition, dangerous public policy. The bill invites violent responses, to no obvious good end.
At the public hearing on SB 420, I asked witnesses for examples of successful lawsuits against people who exercised their right to protect themselves and their families in their home. No one could identify a case, in Maryland or elsewhere, and no one has identified a case since the hearing.
The bottom line is clear: SB 420 seeks to solve a problem that does not exist. The bill’s proponents know this, and they are trying to change the subject. Rather than debating the merits of their idea, they are telling anyone who will listen that I am trying to “circumvent the will of the entire General Assembly.” They want you to think I oppose your right to protect yourself simply because I oppose their bill. Nothing could be farther from the truth.
State law protects your right to use reasonable force to protect yourself and your family in your home. I support that law. I will oppose attempts to undermine it, and I will continue to oppose bills designed to solve problems that do not exist.
As chairman of the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee, I am obligated to make sure the Senate focuses on the most important pieces of legislation – bills that are well-crafted and seek to offer good solutions to problems affecting Marylanders. SB 420 does not meet that test.

Click here for Senator Frosh’s Blog Entry: http://www.brianfrosh.com/blog?key=1239

Tags: AGC, Anti Gun Politicians, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Gun Banners, Gun Bills, Gun Clubs, Gun Laws, Maryland, Self Defense

Maryland State Police Define .22 Rimfire Rifle as ‘Assault Weapons’

Ammoland — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:12:28 +0000

Update Maryland State Police Define .22 Rimfire Rifle as ‘Assault Weapons’
No plans to notify dealers – current owners could be charged…

GSG-5 Rifle with 10 Round Magazine

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(AmmoLand.com)- Contrary to previous reports regarding multiple types of .22 caliber rifles being considered to be copies of “assault weapons”, the Maryland State Police have so far defined only 1 model .22 rifle as a copy of an “assault weapon.”

In a letter dated October 7, 2009; the Maryland State Police wrote:

“Thank you for your September 7, 2009, electronic mail requesting a complete list of the .22 caliber rifles that have been determined to be copies of “assault weapons” and therefore subject to the seven-day waiting period and background check.A review of the Department’s files indicates that there are no records that provide a list of .22 caliber rifles that have been determined to be copies of assault weapons and subject to the seven-day waiting period and background check. Please note however, that the .22 Caliber, German Sport Gun (GSG-5) Rimfire is considered a copy of an assault weapon that is listed in the Annotated Code of Maryland, Public Safety Article, Title 5, and thereby subject to the seven-day waiting period and background check.
/s/
Laura L. Herman, Captain
Commander, Licensing Division
Department of State Police”

A call to the Maryland State Police (MSP) was place by the AGC at 12:30 PM on October 16, 2009. The AGC asked the (MSP): “Which of the guns on the firearms listed in the Annotated Code of Maryland, Public Safety Article, Title 5 is the German Sport Gun (GSG-5) considered to be a copy of?” The Sergeant who took the call did not know, and he promised to check and call back with an answer. After 45 minutes, the Sergeant called back and advised the AGC that, based upon its appearance, the .22 caliber rimfire GSG-5 is considered a copy of the 9mm H&K 94.

When questioned, the Sergeant also indicated that if anyone who purchased one of these firearms and subsequently sells it in a private sale, both the buyer and the seller could be prosecuted. The Maryland State Police have no plans to publish and distribute their new ruling to Maryland dealers, much less the general public.

Law abiding citizens are difficult to control, so it appears that the Maryland State Police are now working to expand their control by “creating” criminals out of unsuspecting law abiding citizens.

Tags: 22LR, AGC, Assault Weapons, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Gun Clubs, Gun Laws, Maryland, Police Departments, Rimfire, State Police, Waiting Periods

Maryland State Police Questioning Citizens About Legally Owned Guns

Ammoland — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 17:10:16 +0000

Maryland State Police Questioning Citizens About Legally Owned Guns

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(AmmoLand.com)- The AGC has received several verified reports of the Maryland State Police questioning citizens about the firearms they legally own.

These incidents involve citizens and firearms that have no apparent nexus to any crime or any illegal activity.

If you are visited by the Maryland State Police, please make a careful and accurate record of the date, time and location of the visit, the names and badge numbers of the officers (they are required to provide this information if you ask for it), whether they were in uniform or out of uniform, the firearms they are inquiring about as well as the make, model, color, tag number and state of registration of the vehicle(s) involved.

If you have been questioned by the Maryland State Police regarding your legally owned firearm(s) please call: 410-296-3947

Tags: AGC, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Gun Rights, Maryland, Rimfire, Second Amendment, State Police

Maryland State Police Define .22 Rimfire Rifles as Assault Weapons Part 2

Ammoland — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 17:07:11 +0000

Maryland State Police Define .22 Rimfire Rifles as Assault Weapons Part 2

GSG-5 Rifle with 10 Round Magazine

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(AmmoLand.com)- The following .22 caliber rifles (and perhaps others) have apparently been listed as “Assault Weapons” and are therefore subject to the 7 day waiting period and background check required for regulated firearms:

German Sport Guns GSG-MP5
Umarex USA / Colt .22 rimfire rifles

The Maryland State Police (MSP) have apparently still not issued a formal written bulletin to the firearms dealers informing them of this new requirement.

It is entirely possible for a dealer and/or buyer to be arrested, charged, and prosecuted for violating an unwritten policy established in secret by Maryland State Police Licensing Division.

If the MSP policy is overturned by the courts, it is becomes an open question whether or not the MSP will purge their data base of these firearms and their owners. Don’t hold your breath.

Tags: 22LR, AGC, Assault Weapons, Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, GSG, GSG 5, Gun Bans, Maryland, Rimfire, State Police, Umarex USA