Congressman Aderholt Protects Gun Rights By Fighting Lawsuit Abuse

CONGRESSMAN ADERHOLT PROTECTS GUN RIGHTS BY FIGHTING LAWSUIT ABUSE

WASHINGTON, DC -- Congressman Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) today announced that the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (S. 397) passed the House with a vote of 283 to 144. This legislation will prevent reckless lawsuits from bankrupting the American firearms industry. The firearms industry will not be held responsible for harm caused by the criminal or unlawful misuse of firearm products or ammunition products. This legislation will preserve an American's access to a supply of firearms and ammunition for all lawful purposes, including hunting, self-defense, collecting, and competitive or recreational shooting.

"The firearms industry shouldn't be held responsible for harm done by people who criminally misuse their product," said Congressman Aderholt. "To exercise our Constitutional right to bear arms we must hold the industry that produces them to high account and, at the same time, protect the industry from being shut down by unwarranted lawsuits."

This legislation prohibits causes of action against manufacturers, distributors, dealers, and importers of firearms and ammunition products, and their trade associations, for the harm caused by the criminal misuse of firearm products or ammunition products by others when the product has no design defect and was used as intended. However, the bill does allow for lawsuits in cases of negligence and for damages resulting directly from a defect in design or manufacture of a firearm or ammunition.

"We all know that all guns can be dangerous if not used properly. But, proper use of firearms is not the responsibility of the manufacturer. Likewise, we do not hold car manufacturers responsible for deaths in drinking and driving cases, unless the product is somehow faulty," added Congressman Aderholt.

http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/al04_aderholt/PR051020.html