Hearings on gun bills

On Tuesday, February 16 the House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee will hear testimony on two bills related to firearms in New Hampshire. The hearings start at 9:30 a.m.

The first bill, HB 1632, would make it a crime to provide a firearm to someone who is prohibited from owning a firearm.

Supporters of HB 1632 argue that felons, who are prohibited from possessing firearms, are nonetheless able to purchase firearms from unlicensed private sellers, who are not required to perform background checks.  If private sellers are subject to criminal prosecution for selling to felons, they may be more careful in their sales.

Opponents of HB 1632 argue that most felons acquire guns through theft, the black market, or friends, so this bill would have no significant impact on illegal gun ownership.  Some gun rights advocates argue this bill is a step towards requiring universal background checks, which they in turn fear could be turned into a national registry of gun owners.

The second bill, HB 1645, would allow residents to carry a loaded pistol or revolver in a car, so long as the firearm is not concealed.

Supporters of HB 1645 argue that an individual should not lose the right to carry a firearm just because he or she is in a car.

Some opponents of HB 1645 are concerned about easy access to firearms during road rage and traffic stops.

Do you support either of these gun bills?  Share your opinion in the comments.