Two opinions in one letter

To the editor,

First, in response to the “Campus gun bill leaves too many unanswered questions” printed in 4/17/16 guest editorial.

The main theme of the piece is that SB174 didn't have enough “deliberation and input from Alaskans” and later “hearing in House have been held with little notice in one case less than 24 hours.” The testimony was about an hour in House Education, over an hour in House Judiciary. I know, I testified and had to endure the continual talking points of the anti-gun crowd. As to notice, the legislature is on the 24-hour rule.

What wasn’t stated but I will, is the flat out lie by UA in its fiscal note. No funds are now used to “protect” the hearings rooms for “highly charged issues”, but now they want over a million to “secure” those areas. Then the big lie about Idaho needing $3.7 million for increased security, which I found out from Idaho Policy and Budget no funds have been spent for increased security because of the carrying of firearms. Not to mention the concern by Rep. Claman and others of increased insurance premium. I got facts, again from Idaho, of zero increases in insurance (all sent to House Finance). All the other stuff talked about in this editorial was discussed and disputed effectively by pro-2nd Amendment people! As Sen. Kelly said so well about the facility and students (several non-Americans), that threatened to leave. “Don’t let the screen door hit you on in the ... on your way out!”

Now, for the twofer. Rep Shelley Hughes and Senator Bill Stoltze were the sponsors for HJR14, Application for Countermand Amendment and HCR4, Delegate Resolution for the Countermand Amendment. Many other Representatives, Senators and staff were instrumental in helping me get this through the Legislature. It took two sessions and passed out with bi-partisan support, House 6 Democrats and 1 non-affiliated and in the Senate 2 Democrats. This was, to say the least, a learning curve for me. I do want to publicly express my thanks to all for putting up with me as I learned and those who taught me how to get these resolutions passed. This now gives me the ability to open doors I need to get this through the needed 34 States. Thanks seems so small a word and expression of gratitude but that is from the heart.

Mike Coons

Palmer