But, will there be overdue fines?

Now that Virginia has some of the most lenient gun laws in the nation, a proposal has been "floated" to make guns even more available to folks who can't afford their own or just get caught temporarily without the Smith & Wesson in a time of need: Gun Lending Libraries.

Perhaps this idea should be expanded and improved. For example:

• Will there be drive-thru windows?
• Will there be overdue fines?
• Will private guns be allowed in the library?
• Will the library be allowed in a bar?
• Will the library raise money by hosting a gun fair?
• Will there be inter-library loans?

Guns... here, there, everywhere

With a number of legislators introducing bills to permit carrying of guns in restaurants and bars, courthouses, houses of worship, etc., why hasn't someone introduced legislation to allow carrying of concealed weapons in the galleries of the General Assembly?

Governor vetoes bad bills

Governor Tim Kaine's office announced the vetoes of several bills in which CCC has passed through the grist mill and rejected as spoiled grain. Among the vetoes:

Senator Emmett Hanger's SB 1035 would have allowed concealed weapons in restaurants and bars serving alcohol. The governor noted that this bill would put employees and patrons of these establishments at risk and that many in the law enforcement community opposed it. He also vetoed SB 877 that would have allowed retired law enforcement to carry concealed weapons in restaurants and bars selling alcohol. The governor found no compelling reason for retired officers to do so.

The governor also vetoed SB 1069, HB 2358, SB 961, HB 2638 and SB 1409, all of which expand the capital murder statute to increase the number of offenders who would be eligible for capital punishment. The governor noted that Virginia is already second in the nation (behind Texas) in the number of executions. The most controversial, SB 961/HB 2358 patroned by Senator Mark Obenshain and Delegate Todd Gilbert, would have redefined the triggerman rule so principals in the second degree and accessories before the fact could be charged as principals in certain first degree cases. 

The General Assembly reconvenes on April 8 to consider the governor's vetoes and amendments. Contact your legislator and urge him/her to sustain the governor's vetoes of these bad bills.