Issue Position: Guns

Issue Position

Issue Position: Guns

Guns
I strongly support the Second Amendment, which protects "the right of the people to keep and bear arms." I firmly believe the plain language of the Second Amendment guarantees the right of law-abiding citizens to own firearms. During the 111th Congress I introduced legislation (S. 845) that would allow individuals who have a concealed carry permit from their home state the ability to carry a concealed firearm in any other state that allows its citizens to do so. This legislation is needed because law abiding citizens should be allowed to protect themselves and their families while traveling across state lines. Although more than half of the Senate supported my proposal when I offered it as an amendment, on July 22, 2009, this measure fell two votes shy of receiving the necessary 60 votes for adoption.

While overheated rhetoric and fear mongering eventually overcame common sense in this instance, I am committed to continuing to support legislation that ensures that South Dakotans are able to enjoy their Second Amendment rights, especially when it comes to the numerous hunting traditions we enjoy.

Like many South Dakotans, I grew up with an enormous respect and appreciation for firearms, hunting, and the outdoors. As Co-Chair of the Congressional Sportsmen's Caucus, I will work to promote issues important to South Dakota's outdoorsmen and to protect the numerous hunting traditions we enjoy.

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