Dear Neighbors, On Thursday, Democrats held their first gun control hearings of the year in the House Public Safety Committee. It is disappointing that Democrats and their allies are pushing their gun control agenda at a time when the families of the three Burnsville first responders who were tragically killed on February 18th are being laid to rest. Nevertheless, this is what we’ve come to expect from gun grabbers in St. Paul. The first bill would require firearm owners to report the loss or theft of a firearm within a timeframe deemed “appropriate” by the government. Put simply, the bill would criminalize victims for not reporting a crime that has been committed against them. We do not and should not criminalize those who are the victims of the crimes of others. The second bill would establish new requirements for the storage of firearms inside the home. More specifically, the bill requires a firearm owner to store their property in one of the following manners when the firearm is not in the person’s control: - Unloaded and equipped with a locking device, or
- Loaded or unloaded in a locked gun safe
Those of you who are familiar with firearms understand the significant challenges posed by such legal requirements in the event of a home defense situation. As someone who is a strong supporter of the 2nd Amendment, it is frustrating to see Minnesota Democrats refuse to hold criminals responsible for their actions by advocating for the early release from prison for violent felons and introducing legislation to further weaken penalties for many crimes including those related to firearm possession. The bills that were heard in committee on Thursday will do nothing to address the root causes of gun violence or to hold violent criminals responsible for their actions. Instead, they create additional burdens for law-abiding Minnesotans, making it increasingly difficult and legally perilous to own and keep firearms in the home. Legislative Democrats, metro-prosecutors, and activist judges should focus their efforts on enforcing the countless gun laws already on the books, prosecuting and holding violent criminals responsible for their actions, and giving law enforcement the resources they need to keep our communities safe. We are lucky to have incredible law enforcement professionals and leadership in our communities. Thank you for your commitment to service and for the sacrifices you make every day to keep us safe. February Budget ForecastThis week, state economists released the annual February budget forecast. As was the case in December’s update, officials are once again projecting a looming deficit during the next budget cycle. The Democrat deficit should not be surprising when you consider Governor Walz along with DFL majorities in the House and Senate spent last year’s $17.5 billion budget surplus, raised taxes by $10 billion, and grew overall government spending by 40%. The trajectory that Democrats set us on is unsustainable and family budgets are paying the price because of it. You deserve better and balance is badly needed in St. Paul to set us on the right course for the future. Staying in TouchAs always, please communicate to me any thoughts, questions, or concerns you may have. Please never hesitate to reach out to me whether it’s via phone or email. I can be reached at 651-296-4293 or via email at rep.mike.wiener@house.mn.gov. It would be an honor to speak with you. Until next time, have a great weekend, Mike |