2aHawaii
General Topics => Legal and Activism => Topic started by: bass monkey on January 26, 2013, 07:02:36 PM
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Hicarry made a thread but it wasnt getting much attention so i figured make a new thread. If you cannot make it down in person you can also submit testimony at the link provided on the bottom. Everyone please at least submit testimony.
HB 426 is scheduled to be heard tuesday 1/29/2013 @ 2pm in House conference room 325. This bill is equally important for firearm owners here in Hawaii.
HB 426- Repeals exemption of National Rifle Association certified firearms instructors from absolute liability for injury or damage caused by discharge of their firearms during the course of providing firearms training at a firing range to persons seeking to acquire a firearms permit.
If you cannot make it in person submit online testimony here. This bill is equally important for firearms owners in Hawaii.
http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/submittestimony.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=426 (http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/submittestimony.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=426)
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Heres a little more information from a email i received
HRA ALERT: GUN BILL HEARING, THIS TUESDAY, JAN 29.
House Bill 426 (HB426) is scheduled for a public hearing Jan 29, 2013, at 2pm in the Committee on Judiciary (JUD), in Rm 325, at the State Capitol, 415 South Beretania Street, Honolulu.
In 2012 the Hawaii Legislature passed a law to give NRA Instructors partial immunity from incidents arising during the mandatory safety classes required for a handgun permit, against lawsuits under Hawaii's "absolute liability" law for gun owners.
The Hawaii plaintiff attorneys strongly opposed the bill, and now Representative Scott Saiki (Moilili, McCully, Kaimuki), himself a personal injury lawyer, has introduced this bill to repeal it. The Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee Chair, Rep. Karl Rhoads, (F-rated) has scheduled it for a hearing, the first gun bill this year. It's a probe of our defenses, with terrible bills confiscating semi-auto rifles, ammunition restrictions, re-registration annually, re-training every two years, etc., looming.
It is essential that large numbers of gun rights supporters send in testimony in opposition to this bill and attend the hearing to deliver it in person. There are only a few truly anti-gun politicians in the Hawaii Legislature. Fortunately we have a good number of supportive legislators there, too. The majority are in between. They are waiting to see how effective our grass-roots defense is.
Sending testimony is simple: Go to the Legislature web site at http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/submittestimony.aspx (http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/submittestimony.aspx) enter the bill number, and fill out the form. Submit it before 2pm Monday, Jan 28 (24 hours before the hearing). Or FAX testimony to 808-586-8504 (Oahu) or 1-800-535-3859 (for Neighbor Islander without a computer). Keep it short, simple, and polite. "Our gun safety instructors need limited immunity when teaching. Please kill this bill." is quite enough. Add whatever else you personally feel.
Testifying is not simple, but it's their game, their rules, and if you don't play, we don't win. Your testimony given in person counts many times more. Dress like you were applying for a job.
Get driving instructions and parking suggestions if you need them.* Put 2 hours on the meter. The bill is third on the agenda, so arrive on the 3rd floor of the Capitol building by 2pm, allowing time to find parking and walk to the Capitol. When this bill is considered, your name will be called in the order in which your testimony was received. Walk up to the microphone, sit down, give your name, state your opposition, and briefly explain your feelings on the issue. No need to repeat points already effectively made. Thank the Chair and Members for the opportunity to testify. They may ask you questions. If you sent testimony late, or your name was not called, after all others have testified on this bill you can raise your hand and will be heard. Have a written copy of your testimony to give to the committee clerk.
May we get through these troubled times with our rights intact.
Mahalo,
Dr. Maxwell Cooper,
HRA Legislative Liaison
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Thank you Bass Monkey. There is no reason that this bill should not get at least 200 opposing testimony letters. Many more if you all can network. NOW IS THE TIME TO START THE WORK FOLKS! :thumbsup:
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To our legislators,
I urge all of you to oppose this bill to repeal protection for our firearms safety instructors. This bill enables these instructors to effectively conduct firearms SAFETY courses with out fear of incidents that my cause liability. The SAFETY course is mandated by law, thus requires trainers. By having the protection of this law that is in the very interest of PUBLIC SAFETY. The more qualified safety instructors are available, the safer the public will be in acquiring firearms.
I fully oppose repeal, and urge you to do the same. In these times, common sense dictates that the safer we are, the better we will all be.
Thank you.
(Heavies)
Voter and Citizen
Use as any of you see fit. ;D
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Thank you for the sample letter heavies. Ill save a copy for later.
And if the number of people submitting testimony were equal to the views on this thread we would have that place flooded.
For the people asking what we can do, here and now is the time.
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This bill is the first step to total disarmerment. If this passes instructors will be not willing to teach classes for fear of liability. Less instructors means less people getting the required trainning to aquire. If you can't get training, you can't get a handgun! No new handgun owners means once the current ones pass or move away, no more firearms. Sneaky. Lets put this in perspective. Imagine if driver licensing was the same way where the driver's ed instructors were 100% liable. No one would teach these classes.
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This bill is the first step to total disarmerment. If this passes instructors will be not willing to teach classes for fear of liability. Less instructors means less people getting the required trainning to aquire. If you can't get training, you can't get a handgun! No new handgun owners means once the current ones pass or move away, no more firearms. Sneaky. Lets put this in perspective. Imagine if driver licensing was the same way where the driver's ed instructors were 100% liable. No one would teach these classes.
Exactly!!!! and thats why firearm owners need to support the instructors that support us.
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testimony submitted
everyone please take the time to do this!
Exactly!!!! and thats why firearm owners need to support the instructors that support us.
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thanks macsak,
We need as much people as possible submitting testimony or showing up in person to oppose this measure.
If you have not submitted testimony yet, here is the link to do so.
http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=426&year=2013 (http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=426&year=2013)
It is fairly easy.
type in Name.
type in email address.
click oppose
then send
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you don't really even have to write anything
i am told that staffers mostly just count oppose or support and the legislators might never read the testimony
thanks macsak,
We need as much people as possible submitting testimony or showing up in person to oppose this measure.
If you have not submitted testimony yet, here is the link to do so.
http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=426&year=2013 (http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=426&year=2013)
It is fairly easy.
type in Name.
type in email address.
click oppose
then send
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Submitted as well. My instructor is super cool, and I'm glad I met him! They deserve the right, to be able to teach, without fear.
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Testimony submitted. Deadline for online testimonies is less than 24 hours from now (Monday 2pm). Remember to submit a testimony!
BTT!
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Testimony submitted. Deadline for online testimonies is less than 24 hours from now (Monday 2pm). Remember to submit a testimony!
BTT!
Thanks for the reminder about the deadline. You are correct, the deadline is 24hrs away. For all those who have not submitted testimony yet please do so.
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Thanks for the reminder about the deadline. You are correct, the deadline is 24hrs away. For all those who have not submitted testimony yet please do so.
+1. Short on time for support.
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DONE!
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yup
24 hr deadline means 2 pm monday
+1. Short on time for support.
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Done. Plus emailed to 15 others.
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Testimony submitted. Thanks for the sample Heavies.
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Testimony submitted and email sent to Rep. Saiki (I'm in his district) expressing my opposition to HB426 and requesting an explanation on why he chose to introduce HB426.
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Help Stop HB 426 - Oppose it! Watch this video, like and share.
Oppose Hawaii House Bill 426 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YGvb2rrsoTo#ws)
Hearing Date 1/29/2013 at 2pm Conference Room 325.
Submit Testimony at:
http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/submittestimony.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=426 (http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/submittestimony.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=426)
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Submitted my testimony: "I oppose this amendment because I believe its intent, purpose, and effect is to make it financially and legally untenable to be NRA instructor, and by chasing out NRA instructors, make it more difficult if not impossible for citizens to acquire firearms lawfully in the state of Hawaii. It is clearly an end run around the right to bear arms and unconstitutional."
Also posted to www.reddit.com/r/hawaii (http://www.reddit.com/r/hawaii)
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Thanks to all that have submitted testimony. To those that have not yet done so, please consider submitting something ASAP.
THIS IS IMPORTANT!!
This is the first gun bill heard in the legislature this year. We believe they are "probing our defenses" and will use our response to this bill to gauge our commitment and resolve for the rest of the session. It is vitally important to have a very good showing to demonstrate that we are united, and that we are a big enough voting block to threaten their re-election next year.
We need to BURY them in testimony and to PACK the hearing room with supporters. Remember, this is our best opportunity to make a favorable "first impression" in what is going to be a long and difficult fight this year.
So spread the word, quickly. Submit your testimony and try hard to get to the hearing.
I have attached my testimony for those that might want to use the ideas within for their testimony. Remember, you don't have to actually write anything. If you can't write up testimony for some reason, all you need to do is just click the "oppose" button. That still gets read in the hearing as "opposes" and is much better than nothing. It's time to stand up and get involved. This is the first of many bills of varying restrictive gun control, up to confiscation. We need to make a good showing or we'll get walked over all year.
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Testimony submitted.
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Testimony submitted.
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great job, people
at least hit "oppose" if you don't want to write something
Testimony submitted.
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great job, people
at least hit "oppose" if you don't want to write something
Exactly! It doesn't take much time at all.
I submitted written testimony, but it doesn't take but 1-2 minutes to submit "Oppose" to get it on the record.
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We should also keep an eye on:
SB36
HB30
SB219
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Testimony submitted. :thumbsup:
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Just submitted testimony. Very easy to do. Encourage everyone to take macsak's advice and at least hit the oppose button
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Thanks to all that have submitted testimony. To those that have not yet done so, please consider submitting something ASAP.
THIS IS IMPORTANT!!
This is the first gun bill heard in the legislature this year. We believe they are "probing our defenses" and will use our response to this bill to gauge our commitment and resolve for the rest of the session. It is vitally important to have a very good showing to demonstrate that we are united, and that we are a big enough voting block to threaten their re-election next year.
We need to BURY them in testimony and to PACK the hearing room with supporters. Remember, this is our best opportunity to make a favorable "first impression" in what is going to be a long and difficult fight this year.
So spread the word, quickly. Submit your testimony and try hard to get to the hearing.
I have attached my testimony for those that might want to use the ideas within for their testimony. Remember, you don't have to actually write anything. If you can't write up testimony for some reason, all you need to do is just click the "oppose" button. That still gets read in the hearing as "opposes" and is much better than nothing. It's time to stand up and get involved. This is the first of many bills of varying restrictive gun control, up to confiscation. We need to make a good showing or we'll get walked over all year.
thanks for the insight Hicarry. I agree, they are setting it up to see how much resistance they will encounter and if they should proceed or not with their agenda. therefore we all need to stand together to oppose any new gun restrictions. Submit testimony, its easier then waiving a sign, and you dont even have to stand!!!!
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Will do.
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Submitted testimony ;)
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9am monday-
I typed out a nice MS Word document and tried to submit it via upload.
The website threw back an error "404 page not found". ...wonderful
I printed and faxed it ok. FAX => 548-8504 on Oahu
1-800-535-3859 for Neighbor Islander
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Done. :)
"Aloha,
I am writing to voice my opposition to House Bill 426.
Hawaii already has some of the most effective gun violence prevention laws in the U.S. and I am somewhat proud of that fact. Mandating safety training prior to purchasing a pistol is a good idea. As a result, however, any hands-on experience with a pistol during such classes will of necessity be with firearms owned by the instructor. There is no way around it: prior to being able to legally own a pistol all training must be done with another person's firearm.
The liability immunity for firearms safety class instructors are a vital for the few civilian safety instructors that we have. While is makes perfect sense for a firearms owner to bear the liability for what happens with their firearms it makes little sense to repeal this protection from those few who provide a vital entry point to safe gun ownership.
If these legal protections are repealed the risk is that there will be fewer safety courses that include hands-on range time with a qualified safety instructors. This equates to more new gun owners who have less understanding of firearms safety and increased public risk.
For these reasons I strongly oppose House Bill 426 and urge others to do the same."
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9am monday-
I typed out a nice MS Word document and tried to submit it via upload.
The website threw back an error "404 page not found". ...wonderful
I printed and faxed it ok. FAX => 548-8504 on Oahu
1-800-535-3859 for Neighbor Islander
there is a template online iif you need it
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Submitted! :shaka:
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2.5 hours left to submit testimony!!!!
As pastor niemoller said
First they came for the Jews and I did not speak out because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for the Communists and I did not speak out because I was not a Communist.
Then they came for the trade unionists and I did not speak out because I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for me and there was no one left to speak out for me.
We cant let them divide and conquer us. this is just the first step, attacking the instructors. We must stand together and defend them, even though we personally may not be instructors. Who knows which group they may attack next if they are successful with this measure. We all must stick together. If you have not submitted testimony yet please do so. And if you can attend in person as well that would be great.
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.
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Sent mine in!!!
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sent
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good job
let's see if he responds
Pau submitting testimony!! :shaka:
I also sent an email directly to Rep Saiki's email:
Dear Representative Scott Saiki,
I strongly oppose the above-referenced measure that you introduced.
I kindly ask that you provide an explanation as to why you introduced this measure.
I also kindly ask that you provide an explanation as to the intent behind this proposed legislation.
Please provide responses to the questions, above, as I wish to inform my family, my friends, and the community of your position on this issue, and your rationale for proposing this legislation.
Best Regards,
new guy
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.
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Pau submitting testimony!! :shaka:
I also sent an email directly to Rep Saiki's email:
Dear Representative Scott Saiki,
I strongly oppose the above-referenced measure that you introduced.
I kindly ask that you provide an explanation as to why you introduced this measure.
I also kindly ask that you provide an explanation as to the intent behind this proposed legislation.
Please provide responses to the questions, above, as I wish to inform my family, my friends, and the community of your position on this issue, and your rationale for proposing this legislation.
Best Regards,
new guy
I sent him a similar email, requesting an explanation on why he introduced the proposed legislation and that I am a constituent (I live in his district). He emailed me back pretty quickly regarding SB 219, but he's taking quite a bit longer with the email I sent him on HB 426.
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Testimony submitted.
Thanks to all (esp. Chris) for keeping us informed and showing how we can help.
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Testimony submitted.
Thanks to all (esp. Chris) for keeping us informed and showing how we can help.
Thanks, theres still a little more time to submit testimony
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Submitted. Just made it in time.
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great job everyone.
Also dont forget to submit testimony for this bill as well. Gun buy back program.
http://2ahawaii.com/index.php?topic=6235.0 (http://2ahawaii.com/index.php?topic=6235.0)
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Opposed....
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mahalo
let's all keep up the pressure
got a nice note from rep ken ito, i won't print it here since i know him personally, but he assures me he will fight for our second amendment rights
he said he totally agrees with my email that had no punctuation or capital letters
:)
Submitted. Just made it in time.
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mahalo
let's all keep up the pressure
got a nice note from rep ken ito, i won't print it here since i know him personally, but he assures me he will fight for our second amendment rights
he said he totally agrees with my email that had no punctuation or capital letters
:)
Rep Ito came out to the HRA Annual Meeting yesterday and spoke about his support for our Second Amendment rights and the state of the things in the House of Reps.
No email back from Rep Saiki. He responded pretty quickly to my email regarding SB 219. I assume he's getting a LOT more emails regarding HB 426. Hopefully he's getting FLOODED with emails opposing this bill.
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yeah
he said he'll call me and give me a house update
keep up the pressure on saiki
he is responsible to all his constituents
Rep Ito came out to the HRA Annual Meeting yesterday and spoke about his support for our Second Amendment rights and the state of the things in the House of Reps.
No email back from Rep Saiki. He responded pretty quickly to my email regarding SB 219. I assume he's getting a LOT more emails regarding HB 426. Hopefully he's getting FLOODED with emails opposing this bill.
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yeah
he said he'll call me and give me a house update
keep up the pressure on saiki
he is responsible to all his constituents
Hells yes. I spoke with Harvey about this yesterday and I told him I'd get a bunch of friends to submit testimony and talk to my neighbors about it.
I even sent him a follow up email asking why the bill was referred (more like fast tracked) to only the Judiciary Committee, of which Karl Rhoads is the chair. It was my understanding that firearms related bills are also referred to the Public Safety Committee, where there are more pro-gun members, but this bill was curiously only referred to the Judiciary Committee. We need to let the legislators know that we are paying attention and that we will fight for our rights.
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wow great job guys contacting your representatives
Dont forgot to submit testimony for the other hearing as well!!!
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If I submit testimony late will it be ignored?
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wow great job guys contacting your representatives
Dont forgot to submit testimony for the other hearing as well!!!
[/quote
Great job getting the ball rolling here. Thanks.
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Submitted mine a few days ago, my email was blowing up about this.. hope that's an indication to how much opposition there will be!
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I too submitted testimony and will make my best efforts to attend. Hope others can make it in person also.
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How'd it go??
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i heard there was standing room only because the room was packed.
Waiting for Hicarry or chris to give an update
If it really was standing room only, we need to do this for every bill they bring up
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quoted from hdfs fb page
*Victory* House Bill 426 has been defeated in the committee. We had hundreds of testimony sent in, and many many people in attendance. What a great showing! I can say nothing more than thank you - thank you for your help and support.
-- Chris
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:thumbsup: :shaka: O0 :shaka: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :shaka: :shaka: :shaka: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Awesome job folks!!!!
WE NEED THIS TYPE OF SUPPORT ON ALL THESE BILLS!! MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!! :thumbsup: :shaka:
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Outstanding!
I got an email from Rep Saiki, probably from one of his staffers saying that I'll get a response to my email within a week. They were flooded with emails! Then it was awesome to hear that this bill died in committee!
Lets keep on top of this. This was just the first probe. The big ones are coming up!
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Just reviewed the testimony. Overwhelmingly opposed with 2 in support. 1 of the 2 in support, I think, made a mistake because his testimony was against the bill.
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GREAT Job!!
I have heard that the bill was killed in committee, but am waiting for official verification (although with so many reporting in, I suspect it's true...), but regardless, it was a great showing. We flooded the hearing room, we buried them in testimony, and we showed them that we are a united, and powerful, group of voters!
And, while I truly thought everyone did a wonderful job, this was the "easy" one. We can't sit back and gloat now....I say that because on the more "hot button" issues like the "Assault weapons" ban, ammunition ban, etc., the opposition groups will be larger and better organized. There was basically only one group that supported this measure, and it was the plaintiff's attorneys that make their living over suing over things like firearm accidents. When we go up against the AWB folks, they will have more info and they will attempt to use what they so often do, emotion.
So, don't think we have reached our high water mark. And, this is not a comment on everyone's efforts, as they were great, but we need to do more. When the AWB bill comes up, we need to send in thousands of pieces of testimony. We had 600 signatures on the HRA petition to reform the firearms registration process, we should be able to get at least that much for the AWB.
I strongly suggest that you review the list of antigun (and progun) bills and begin writing your testimony now. Don't let an unexpected change in scheduling (yours or the legislature's) be the reason you couldn't submit testimony.
Once again, GREAT job every one!
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great news
but you are correct in that the big battles are to come
in addition to having your testimony ready, be sure to keep all your 2a friendly friends and relatives informed via email text phone FB twitter
make sure they know what to do when
we don't stand a chance if we don't stand together
GREAT Job!!
I have heard that the bill was killed in committee, but am waiting for official verification (although with so many reporting in, I suspect it's true...), but regardless, it was a great showing. We flooded the hearing room, we buried them in testimony, and we showed them that we are a united, and powerful, group of voters!
And, while I truly thought everyone did a wonderful job, this was the "easy" one. We can't sit back and gloat now....I say that because on the more "hot button" issues like the "Assault weapons" ban, ammunition ban, etc., the opposition groups will be larger and better organized. There was basically only one group that supported this measure, and it was the plaintiff's attorneys that make their living over suing over things like firearm accidents. When we go up against the AWB folks, they will have more info and they will attempt to use what they so often do, emotion.
So, don't think we have reached our high water mark. And, this is not a comment on everyone's efforts, as they were great, but we need to do more. When the AWB bill comes up, we need to send in thousands of pieces of testimony. We had 600 signatures on the HRA petition to reform the firearms registration process, we should be able to get at least that much for the AWB.
I strongly suggest that you review the list of antigun (and progun) bills and begin writing your testimony now. Don't let an unexpected change in scheduling (yours or the legislature's) be the reason you couldn't submit testimony.
Once again, GREAT job every one!
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wait what??
The committees on JUD recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes were as follows: 5 Ayes: Representative(s) Rhoads, C. Lee; Ayes with reservations: Representative(s) Belatti, Brower, Wooley; 6 Noes: Representative(s) Har, Ito, Kawakami, Tsuji, McDermott, Thielen; and 2 Excused: Representative(s) Cabanilla, Carroll. The recommendation was not adopted.
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recommendation was to pass
nos were greater that yesses
so the recommendation was NOT adopted
meaning it did not pass
wait what??
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The committees on JUD recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes were as follows: 5 Ayes: Representative(s) Rhoads, C. Lee; Ayes with reservations: Representative(s) Belatti, Brower, Wooley; 6 Noes: Representative(s) Har, Ito, Kawakami, Tsuji, McDermott, Thielen; and 2 Excused: Representative(s) Cabanilla, Carroll. The recommendation was not adopted.
It means the committee brought it up for voting... 5 ayes and 6 noes.
2 Ayes: Rhoads, Lee
3 Ayes with reservations: Belatti, Bower, Wooley
6 Noes: Har, Ito, Kawakami, Tsuji, McDermott, Thielen
2 Excused: Cabanilla, Carroll
That was a close one! Great job everyone! There are more bills to fight!
Maybe a good time to say thank you to the Reps that voted no.
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it is telling that even with an avalanche of opposition, the vote was so close
we've got an uphill battle when the tougher bills come up
please everyone, look at what we're up against and double your efforts
The committees on JUD recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes were as follows: 5 Ayes: Representative(s) Rhoads, C. Lee; Ayes with reservations: Representative(s) Belatti, Brower, Wooley; 6 Noes: Representative(s) Har, Ito, Kawakami, Tsuji, McDermott, Thielen; and 2 Excused: Representative(s) Cabanilla, Carroll. The recommendation was not adopted.
It means the committee brought it up for voting... 5 ayes and 6 noes.
2 Ayes: Rhoads, Lee
3 Ayes with reservations: Belatti, Bower, Wooley
6 Noes: Har, Ito, Kawakami, Tsuji, McDermott, Thielen
2 Excused: Cabanilla, Carroll
That was a close one! Great job everyone! There are more bills to fight!
Maybe a good time to say thank you to the Reps that voted no.
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These pompous bastards! They voted that close with all but a couple of supporting views. Goes to show how these people represent the constituent. I hope this makes some sort of news and they point this fact out! Anyone know any reporters?
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Maybe a good time to say thank you to the Reps that voted no.
Good idea. It's important to show support to those who support us.
I'm also firing off an e-mail to those who still supported the bill in spite of its overwhelming opposition. They'll probably ignore it since I'm not a constituent of theirs, but I don't care. I agree with those saying we need to continue keeping the pressure on. There are thousands and thousands of firearm owners across this State. Legislators like taking the path of least resistance. With anti-gun bills, they've been getting away with it for too long. The paradigm has to shift and this is a good start. Good job to all of those that submitted testimony. It's easy and it does work. :shaka:
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good point, RKBA
those who voted yes, even with reservations, should be reminded that they are responsible to the people, and voting yes in the face of overwhelming opposition is not responsible
they need to be informed that they are being watched
Good idea. It's important to show support to those who support us.
I'm also firing off an e-mail to those who still supported the bill in spite of its overwhelming opposition. They'll probably ignore it since I'm not a constituent of theirs, but I don't care. I agree with those saying we need to continue keeping the pressure on. There are thousands and thousands of firearm owners across this State. Legislators like taking the path of least resistance. With anti-gun bills, they've been getting away with it for too long. The paradigm has to shift and this is a good start. Good job to all of those that submitted testimony. It's easy and it does work. :shaka:
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The democrats really have contempt towards us citizens. But the locals keep voting them inn......
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Dennis, here in Hawaii that is about like saying "The democrats really have contempt towards themselves. But they keep voting themselves in..."
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I heard HiCarry, Funtimes, PastorDennis, and a few others' names as they were calling out all the written testimony. It was amazing that we had overwhelming opposition to this bill! We need to keep this up and squash the other anti-gun bills and overwhelmingly support the pro-gun bills as well. If we can do this over and over again, we can definitely make changes here in Hawaii!
Tapping out a paragraph or two and clicking "Send" wasn't so hard, now was it? ;)
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Chairman Rhoades tried to gut and replace the bill right before the vote, killing other exemptions to absolute liability. Thielen stopped him by asking for the amendments in writing and postponing a vote.
Ito brought up that the exemptions were only passed six months ago and it has not been tested by time yet, so even hearing the bill is a waste of time. Also that it is suspicious that the bill was referred only to JUD, and not public safety. Mr. Gerwig testified that the only result of the exemptions was to increase the number of LIFE instructors from 10 to about 30. This was very convincing for the committee.
Belatti was indifferent, and appeared to be playing a game on her laptop the entire time.
Vice chair Har spoke about her experience taking a course from LIFE and what a great job they do.
It was also brought up by Thielen and McDermott that the committee represents the people and the huge number of people that cared enough to show up and testify in opposition to this bill was the key influence in their deciding to vote nay.
Up until HB 426 came up, the room was packed! Standing room only. After testimony finished, there were only about 5 people in the room.
Vice chair Har said that there were more than 360 testimonies opposed and only one supporting.
To me, this means that packing the conference room when these bills come up for hearing is more important than packing the grass fronting the capitol. I also think they will try to make the more serious measures like HB30, SB36, and SB219 will go to hearing quieter, with less warning for people to get off work. Sending the bill to JUD instead of public safety will only be the beginning of the politico tricks.
I also got to hear an HPD brass testify about replica firearms right before the committee recessed to vote. He said that "any criminal in the right circle can buy a stolen glock for 5-600 dollars, whereas they could only buy a stolen airsoft gun for around 100 dollars." I can't believe HPD came to testify that gun control is completely ineffective. If anyone can FOIA the tape, I would love to see it again.
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Thanks for the updates everybody.
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If anyone can FOIA the tape, I would love to see it again.
It's public record and was aired live on 'Ōlelo and will repeat later in the week. TiVo it or request a copy from Capitol TV (info@capitoltv.org) or maybe 'Ōlelo (www.olelo.org (http://www.olelo.org)).
Not sure how much the charge these days, but the Beta tapes of my testimony from the 80's an 90's were $10.
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The democrats really have contempt towards us citizens. But the locals keep voting them inn......
I wouldn't go as far as saying that...Some might, but most don't. Regardless of party alignment, it's just politicians being politicians.
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I made it for the hearing and it was nice to see a large turn out. I was able to speak and I am glad I did so. While I do not teach the public, I am a certified NRA instructor in multiple disciplines and it is patently obvious for the need for quality education in regards to being a responsible and safe firearms owner when mandated by the State for a safety course being required in the instance of handguns. Overall, especially after the comments from ITO, HAR and Thielen, I am quite surprised to see such a close split in votes. It was my impression that as ITO mentioned, that there was no legitimate reason for this to be in consideration before the committee. I would have thought that the vote would not have been so close. IMO, if not for the large turnout it may have easily gone the other way. This just goes to show how deeply entrenched the attitude is here in Hawaii.
As Jaydawg mentions law enforcement, do not be surprised at how many in LE actually oppose more restrictive firearms legislation. What is often misunderstood is the support in LE. What needs to be clear is that any administration where the CLEO is put into place by say a Commission, that CLEO will tend to have the same stance as the local majority. If they don't they will adopt one or they will not last beyond one term. What also needs to be understood is that once an individual becomes an administrator and no longer covered under any union support they often become a part of that administrative system. At this point they usually support the command staff especially if they wish to progress any further up the rank structure. I would venture a guess that the majority of those in LE, particularly those guys on the streets, actually oppose the most restrictive types of legislation such as those proposed here in Hawaii or by the current President.
I have mentioned before that LE can be an asset, however there is definitely seems to be a negative relationship with the local Hawaii firearms enthusiasts / groups and LE in general. That is obvious especially when just reading threads on this site. I have also experienced it in person on several occasions, however a great number of my interactions are indeed positive. While there are those that fully support LE and voice it, the negative interactions are always the ones that cut the deepest and are not easily forgotten. Now is the time for enthusiasts to come together no matter what job they do and show support on these topics. Hope to see continued support in the future and if you can make it to these hearings, it does make a difference.
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That's great!
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Colt808....I dont think you understand the nature of the beast. Dems are funny people. To them we are a food source, useful idiots as they put it. They have contempt towards us citizens......yet need us to vote them in for their survival. These anti-gun bills. There really is no need for them, but to follow the nation and the radicals they push it forward. You have been living in Hawaii too long. Try going to a free state. There is a huge difference in taxes, gun laws, employment. These dems know one thing.....tax & spend. Thats it. Wanna know why everything here is so expensive???? The Dems ruling the roost for 50 plus years. Compared to Republican majority states???? More oppurtunity and business friendly. Plus better schools in general and the list goes on. Sorry Colt808, I disagree with you on this one. We need to elect a majority of Conservative-Republicans and you will see Hawaii be a truly free state. I love the discussion though Colt808....you're a good man.
Pastor Dennis
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wow great job everyone. Hopefully tomorrow goes just as well.
Just as mentioned we need to keep up the pressure. this is just the start.
Hopefully everyone is all pumped up for whats to come.
We need to pack the room all the time.
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Colt808....I dont think you understand the nature of the beast. Dems are funny people. To them we are a food source, useful idiots as they put it. They have contempt towards us citizens......yet need us to vote them in for their survival. These anti-gun bills. There really is no need for them, but to follow the nation and the radicals they push it forward. You have been living in Hawaii too long. Try going to a free state. There is a huge difference in taxes, gun laws, employment. These dems know one thing.....tax & spend. Thats it. Wanna know why everything here is so expensive???? The Dems ruling the roost for 50 plus years. Compared to Republican majority states???? More oppurtunity and business friendly. Plus better schools in general and the list goes on. Sorry Colt808, I disagree with you on this one. We need to elect a majority of Conservative-Republicans and you will see Hawaii be a truly free state. I love the discussion though Colt808....you're a good man.
Pastor Dennis
I'm both amazed and befuddled at how you could've possibly gleaned all that from:
I wouldn't go as far as saying that...Some might, but most don't. Regardless of party alignment, it's just politicians being politicians.
I'll respond anyway...
1) "Food source": Yes, in a way citizens are, because politicians need the votes of their constituents to remain in office. True, regardless of party. As for contempt towards citizens...It's political elitism. Once voted in (or after a few years/terms), politicians think they're better than 'normal' citizens, but that's true with either party. *refer back to "politicians being politicians"*
2) Gun Control Laws/Anti-gun bills: a direct result of stupid people (criminals) doing stupid things and creating a "National Issue/Crisis". Examples: The 20's/30's Prohibition era gangsters = NFA Laws, 60's assassinations and civil unrest = GCA, 80's & 90's Reagan, Lennon, Waco, & LA gangs = 1994 AWB. It's simple cause & effect. Politicizing the issue by saying one party is anti and the other is pro is flawed logic. Here's a few facts as proof of that: In 1968 there was a Democratic majority in the House and Senate, BUT the Judiciary Committees of each (that passed the GCA) were mostly Republican. In 1994, the AWB passed overwhelmingly, but did you know 94% of the Democrat Senators and 95% of the Republican Senators voting 'yea'? If the reasoning that Democrats are 'anti' and Republicans 'pro' were sound, votes would be divided right along party lines.
3) Yes, things ARE more expensive. Understandable since we're an isolated State that imports the majority of our goods. Having one party in power over another would NOT change this. Alaska pays a bit more than we do for goods and a Republican dominated state. Bottom line: The reason for the added expense is a logistical issue, not political.
4) Tax & spend? Keeping it simple, citizens pay taxes/Government spends it. That's just how the system works. Hawaii has high income tax (7th highest per capita) and we have a higher median household income (9th)...it's all relative. No one likes to pay taxes, but raising and spending tax dollars is not something exclusive to a particular party. Both Democrats and Republicans have accused each other of “tax and spend” legislation.
5) Schools/education in Hawaii? You really should get some facts and figures before making such statements. Because depending on the source, Hawaii ranks anywhere from 15-20 out of the 50 States; While 16 out of the bottom 20 are Republican controlled States. Not that any of it says much...I've strongly believed the quality of education has declined over the last 20 years, but it doesn't have anything to do with who's in control of Government. In 10-20 years there'll be a generation of complete idiots.
I could go on about business friendly, opportunity, and following the Nation/pushing things forward, but I think you should already know that I'll say "nothing to do with political party". So why are Democrats in Hawaii in power? It's because this State has its roots in agriculture and the service industry. Traditionally, the Democratic Party has been that of the blue collar/working/middle class (because of their stance on labor rights issues)...that's basically the demographic of Hawaii's population. It's not about ignorance of the residents, just citizens exercising their right to vote for individuals who they believe best represent them.
Finally, while I may look local and have roots here, I do not sound, think, or act local. Since we've never met, you couldn't possibly know any of that and really are presuming a lot. Yes, I know the "nature of the beast". My first 'political' job was with Pat Saiki for Senate (and later for Governor). I've testified before several Hawaii State Senate and House committees, interned with the NRA (1993-94) and was posted at the Pentagon as a liaison officer to the Senate. I know how sides can work together, but I’ve also seen the waffling, flip-flopping, and some seriously underhanded last minute dealings on both sides...basically all the good and bad of local and national politics. As for being in Hawaii too long? Well, the majority of my adult life has been away from Hawaii, living in "free" states and I currently maintain dual residency (Hawaii/Texas), keeping homes in both, and paying dual taxes for this privilege. Is there something specific I'm supposed to 'see' that I haven't already? Since you (and probably others) are wondering: Yes, I am a Republican. I registered to vote and joined the Young Republicans on my 18th birthday.
Dennis, I'm sure we could have some lively discussions about any given subject, but with regard to this topic you've missed the point. I'm saying we need to stop pointing the finger/making comments that expand the divide between sides. It's no way to garner support from folks who might be straddling the line on the issue. WE stand a better chance by setting aside partisan bias and meeting ignorance with facts, logic and reason.
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Colt808....I stand corrected. :)