Handgun advocates take aim at new law

Friday, September 25, 2009
Chris Megerian
STATEHOUSE

Gov. Jon Corzine's firearms task force heard testimony yesterday from residents concerned about the state's new law limiting handgun purchases to one per month.

Gun collectors and advocates have said the law, signed last month, will unfairly restrict law-abiding citizens' constitutional rights. Proponents pushed the bill as a way to slow the flow of guns to criminals and gang members.

"The law has been vetted and signed," said Sen. Fred Madden (D-Gloucester), vice chairman of the task force. "Today we're taking testimony to measure the impact, positive or negative."

At least 40 people gathered in a Statehouse committee room to speak before the nine-member task force.

Jake McGuigan, government relations director for the National Shooting Sports Foundation, is concerned the law will hurt small retail stores.

Although there is an exception for licensed gun dealers, New Jersey does not classify manufacturers or wholesale distributors as such, he said.

"You're going to be shutting down small retailers and small dealers in the state," McGuigan said. "This law is going after law-abiding citizens and retailers."

Lateif Dickerson attended the hearing with his son, Trevor Stevens. Both are firearms instructors in Jersey City.

Dickerson, wearing a yellow long-sleeved T-shirt with the words "New Jersey Firearms Academy," said the new law is only "feel-good legislation that won't have an impact on crime."

"That's the wrong reason to make laws," he said. "I'd like to see it repealed."

New Jersey was the fourth state to approve such legislation, joining California, Maryland and Virginia.

The law, which takes effect Jan. 1, prohibits gun buyers from buying more than one handgun during a 30-day period. It exempts purchases by law enforcement officers and antique collectors.

Corzine created the task force to recommend changes to the law if it adversely affects gun collectors and recreational gun users.

Chris Megerian may be reached at (609) 989-0208 or cmegerian@starledger.com.