As some readers may know, the House recently passed an extension of the Reagan-era legislation that banned the manufacture of any firearm that can pass through an airport metal detector without triggering an alarm.  The recently passed bill, known as the “plastic gun ban” bill, is now before the US Senate.  I called Senator Burr’s office in Washington earlier today to get his position on the bill, as there are indications that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid may try to use the House-passed bill as a platform for stronger anti-gun measures.  Surprisingly, the guy who took my call (Paul) said that Senator Burr had not taken a position on the bill.  This is unsettling to me, as it suggests that Burr may not oppose the sort of effort that Harry Reid may try to mount.

In my opinion, it is too early to know how the invention of “3D printers” will impact the possibility of such firearms being produced at home by individuals harboring ill intent.  I therefore told Paul to convey to Senator Burr my position, which is that it is okay for the Senate to pass the House bill, as is, and send it on to President Obama for his signature, but that he should resist any attempts in the Senate to expand the scope of the legislation.  If anyone else shares this concern, please let Senator Burr know by calling his Washington office (202/224-3154) or by sending him an e-mail, HERE.