imported post
I emailed Gov Kaine the following:
Gov. Kaine,
I was disturbed, yet again, to read that you intend to veto SB1035. The reports I've read quote you as "very nervous about the public safety impact of that bill." I cannot comprehend your reasoning in this regard.
The difference between the current law and SB1035 is that the people that responsibly abide by the law will be able exercise that right without ridicule, criticism and unwarranted concern. The people that are a threat, and are willing to commit acts that endanger the public, are carrying their weapons concealed without regard to the rule of law.
Let me paint a picture... My wife and I own a small business and feel compelled to protect our lives, our customers and our property by carrying firearms concealed. Occasionally we want to have dinner at one of the local restaurants after closing, all of which (except fast food) serve alcohol. Since I follow the law, I openly carry my weapon upon entering the premises. This has drawn mostly positive responses. Unfortunately, the negative responses we've experienced, coming primarily from ill informed irrational patrons and employees, has created very difficult and dangerous conditions. To the extent that we've been forced to patronize only a select few establishment. This is the "impact to public safety" that you MUST be concerned with.
Gov Kaine, carrying a weapon for protection is the exact same thing as wearing a seat belt to protect you life against a drunk driver, or locking the doors to your house to protect your family from intruders. Law enforcement cannot be there every moment of the day. Concealed carry is the only way to effectively provide immediate protection for my family and I without concerning those incapable of understanding how real, reality can be.
Gov Kaine, I urge you to sign SB 1035 into law. There may be situations where the concealment of a handgun is prudent, even when on the premises of a restaurant that is licensed to serve alcohol. It is quite obvious that you agree with this since you've signed into law the ability for law enforcement and untrained State's Attorney's to do the same. I only ask that you respect the rights of all in your state and not just those you deem as responsible. Please read SB 1035 carefully and sign it into law.
Respectfully,
I am so concerned with the radically liberal slant of politics today that I am taking every opportunity to let my opinion be heard by our elected officials. I hope I was accurate in my references...