WA Attorney General takes action against Florida Gun Owners

Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson (D)

Marion P. Hammer, United Sportsmen of Florida Executive Director (USF) and National Rifle Association (NRA) Past President, sent an email to Florida members stating, “Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson (D) … has recently demonstrated an anti-gun and anti-veteran position, by revoking reciprocity with Florida for concealed weapons and firearms license holders.”

Hammer states, “The punitive action against gun-owners who have Florida licenses to carry concealed weapons or firearms was taken because Florida has honored members of the armed forces and veterans.”

“In 2012, Florida passed legislation to recognize the men and women of our armed services who have served our nation honorably. Our nation trains 18 year old men and women in firearms proficiency then sends them off to war and asks them to give their lives, if necessary, in the cause of Freedom,” notes Hammer.

Hammer laments, “When they have served our nation honorably and returned home to private life, it is unconscionable to tell them our state will not allow them to qualify for a concealed weapons and firearms license so they may protect themselves and their family because they have not yet reached the age of 21.”

The Florida legislature lowered the minimum age requirement from 21 to 18 years of age for those men and women who have served our nation and have been honorably discharged from the service. This age waiver only applies to veterans.  Every other Florida citizen must be 21 years of age or older.

Hammer wrote, “Because of this recognition of special circumstances involving our brave military men and women, Attorney General Ferguson has chosen to revoke reciprocity with Florida for concealed weapons and firearms license holders. Florida has honored our veterans, and for that, all law-abiding Florida license holders have been punished by Attorney General Ferguson.”

Hammer is asking Floridians consider “urging the Attorney General to reinstate reciprocity with Florida and once again recognize our licenses as valid in Washington State.”

Those interested may call Attorney General Ferguson at (360) 753-2702 or send an e-mail to Assistant Attorney General Susan Pierini at: SusanP1@atg.wa.gov

---