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Joe Sestak Joins Pennsylvania Mayors in Calling on Arlen Specter to Defend the Commonwealth’s Concealed Gun Laws

By JOE SESTAK FOR CONGRESS

Today, Congressman Joe Sestak joined with more than 100 Pennsylvania mayors in calling on Senator Arlen Specter to reject legislation that would weaken Pennsylvania’s regulations on carrying concealed weapons.

Possibly as early as today, the Senate will consider an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act, introduced by Senator John Thune, that would require Pennsylvania to accept concealed carry permits from other states — even when they do not meet Pennsylvania’s standards, which prevent some people, like those with addictions or dangerous criminal pasts, from obtaining permits. This Thursday, Senator Specter is scheduled preside over a hearing on S. 845, The Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act, which, if passed, would have the same negative consequences.

“Pennsylvania has a right to determine who can carry a concealed weapon in the Commonwealth,” said Congressman Sestak. “We’ve dealt with tragedy after tragedy from gun violence, and while I support the right to bear arms, I also support sensible concealment regulations to protect our communities and law enforcement officers — and I support the right of Pennsylvania to make those decisions. I call on Arlen Specter to vote against the Thune Amendment and to take the lead in opposing the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act.”

Congressman Sestak has consistently stood for sensible gun control. He supported the Gun Show Loophole Closing Act of 2007 and, in May, voted against an amendment that overturned President Reagan’s regulation prohibiting loaded guns in National Parks. Senator Specter has long been on the side of the gun lobby, having voted against the Brady Bill as well as legislation to require criminal background checks at gun shows. That’s why Congressman Sestak earned the endorsements of the Brady Campaign and Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Co-Chair of Mayors Against Illegal Guns, while Senator Specter did not, instead earning an “A” from the National Rifle Association.

“I hope Senator Specter will heed the call of Pennsylvania’s mayors and start looking out for our communities and law enforcement officers,” Congressman Sestak said.

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July 20, 2009 at 10:32 am

--pa2010.com Staff

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