Last Days to Comment on Carry in National Parks

You have probably seen several emails and notices from the NRA that the comment period for the proposed rules change related to carrying firearms in National Parks. Given the importance of the issue however I thought a mention that the deadline to comment is approaching fast.

This was supposed to have closed in June but rather than closing the proscribed comments period as scheduled and moving toward finalizing this federal regulation, U.S. Senator Daniel Akaka (D-Hawaii) and U.S. Representative Raul Grijalva (D-Arizona), succeeded in delaying the implementation of the final rule by having the comment period extended an additional 30 days. In a letter to Secretary Kempthorne, Senator Akaka and Representative Grijalva asked that the public comment period be extended, citing the recent decision in the D.C. v Heller.

Gun owners have until August 8 to submit comments. We must not let this opportunity for a major improvement pass us by. Encourage the adoption of the proposed amendment. Don’t wait! Get your comments in now!

Please submit your comments on-line here (Select the icon next to "Add Comments"), Or in writing to:
Public Comments Processing
Attn: 1024-AD70Division of Policy and Directives Management
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 222
Arlington, VA 22203

For the comment section, encourage the adoption of the proposed amendment, but also let them know that you would like to see restrictions further eased. Below is the comment I sent in. You are welcome to use it as a guideline for your own comment.

Regarding Rulemaking Proposal, Reference Number 1024-AD70, here are my comments:

I strongly support the proposed changes to regulations regarding firearms on lands administered by the NPS and FWS. While not perfect, the proposed amendment is a step in the right direction. It could be easily improved by simply striking the word “concealed” from its text. Many gun owners do not have concealed carry permits – whether due to government limitations or a financial issue – and many do not own a firearm suitable for concealed carry. It is wrong to deny these people their right of self defense. At the very least however, I ask that you at least adopt the proposed amendment as written.

Please don’t delay. Submit your comments NOW. We need to overwhelm The Park Service with support for the right to keep and bear arms on federal lands.