Firearms Owners Against Crime
Institute for Legal, Legislative and Educational Action
Institute for Legal, Legislative and Educational Action
In reaction to a new state law, White Oak council on Monday unanimously authorized advertising the repeal of an ordinance that prohibits the carrying of firearms on borough property.
Solicitor Krisha Mackulin advised that the choice was to repeal the ordinance or deal with a possible lawsuit from the National Rifle Association. It sets the stage for final action by council on Dec. 15.
“I've not received any notice that we might be sued under this law,” Mackulin conceded, referring to state Act 192.
On Nov. 6, Gov. Tom Corbett signed Act 192 into law. According to the NRA, it is the strongest firearms preemption statute in the country.
Opponents say a law introduced to criminalize the theft of copper pipes and wires was amended illegally to pre-empt gun control statutes in more than two dozen municipalities, including Pittsburgh.
It is to take effect Jan. 5.
“This critical pro-gun legislation (will) ensure that firearm and ammunition laws are consistent throughout Pennsylvania and allows citizens to seek legal remedies against localities whose gun control ordinances exceed state law,” the NRA's Institute for Legislative Action posted when Corbett signed the bill.
On Nov. 10, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Lancaster and five Democratic lawmakers sued in Commonwealth Court.
Sen. Daylin Leach, D-Montgomery County, said the bill was amended in violation of the state constitution's original-purpose and single-subject clauses.
All area House members voted for the final version of the bill, which passed, 138-56. In the Senate, Democrat James Brewster of McKeesport and Republican Kim Ward of Hempfield were among 34 who voted for the bill, while Democrats Jay Costa Jr. of Forest Hills and Matt Smith of Mt. Lebanon were among 14 who voted no.