Responses from CO Legislators Thread

[DeusExMachina]

This piece of work is my rep (I live in Denver, you can send me condolences), and when I send him emails regarding legislation he comes back with short responses that give off the scent that he knows better than his constituents. This is the first response I got to Ruger's email:



Dear Phillp,

Thank you for your email. I too am saddened by the events at Newtown
and agree that we should do more to strengthen and expand mental
health programs and NCIS background checks. In addition, I believe
that the 2nd Amendment is an integral part of the Constitution and
guarantees one of our basic civil liberties. In my interpretation of
it, however, there needs to be a balance between respecting firearm
owners’ rights while also protecting our communities, and the 2nd
Amendment clearly states that the right to bear arms may be “well
regulated.”

There will likely be bills introduced to ban assault rifles and large
ammunition magazines. I will be supporting those guns safety bills.
I will thoughtfully consider any other proposals which come forward
this year, and I appreciate your input.

You are also welcome to stop by my office at the Capitol, room 307.

Thanks again.

Sincerely,
Paul Rosenthal
Colorado State Representative

I sent him another email today after the stupidity was introduced, and this is all he had to say:



Hi Philip,

I support the package of gun safety bills which were proposed today.

Best regards,
Representative Paul Rosenthal
Work: 303-866-2910
Cell: 720-529-9787


This was my response:


Mr. Rosenthal,

I would be happy to hear, from your perspective, what manner of safety
these bills offer the law abiding public. To me they offer more
funding for a defunct and redundant fiscal leech on the state of
Colorado, as well as a "gun tax" on citizens for this program. They
also offer lame duck restrictions that are proven ineffective, but
seem to be a go-to measure to restrict lawful firearms owners. This is
among directly violating federal acts and limiting the right of self
defense to certain places and certain people.

As a voting constituent of your district, I ask you to reconsider your position.

Thank you,

Phil

His response:



Hi Phil,

I suspect that on this issue, we'll have to agree to disagree.

Best,

Representative Paul Rosenthal
Work: 303-866-2910
Cell: 720-529-9787

He's a very active person in the Jewish community, it appears, so I'm trying to get the JPFO on him.

Just wanted to vent.

[MarkCO]

There is a small group of fairly high profile folks meeting with them on Friday, we will do our best.

[Teufelhund]

In my interpretation of
it, however, there needs to be a balance between respecting firearm
owners’ rights while also protecting our communities, and the 2nd
Amendment clearly states that the right to bear arms may be “well
regulated.

I've only heard this particular statement from the dumbest of libs. Is he even qualified to hold public office with this obvious lack of reading comprehension?

[motohooligan]

I've spent the past 6 years living in countries that don't allow guns (Japan & England). I never thought after coming back to Colorado I would have to fight so hard to keep them.

[Circuits]

Need to ask him when he's instituting common sense voter regulation - like fees to register, and background checks to ensure voters aren't mentally ill, or not actually citizens.

[vossman]

Good job engaging the reps. Looks like it doesn't matter though. All I've seen are form letters, copied statements from websites and "I'm gonna do what I want" replies.
Frustrating as heck.

[Ronin13]

Need to ask him when he's instituting common sense voter regulation - like fees to register, and background checks to ensure voters aren't mentally ill, or not actually citizens.
[LOL]Throw it right back in their faces! I love it.
This guy seems like a big time douche, and idiot- like Teufelhund said, he can't read worth a damn... nothing in the 2A says regulating firearms, it's a "well regulated militia." Stupid liberal fvcks!

[liberty19]

There is a small group of fairly high profile folks meeting with them on Friday, we will do our best.

I wish you all the best in your meeting. We trust you will represent us well. And thank you.

[streetglideok]

Perhaps this turd needs to become the subject of a recall election?

[JVC]

I just received this email from Rep. Spencer Swalm, who is on our side. I have to work tomorrow and Wednesday, but if you can attend the hearings, please do. That said, please dress professionally or business casual and be polite. The Dems will find fault at anything, so let's just take that card out of their hands. And, please be mindful of gun laws, there is no carrying in the Capitol building, to my knowledge. No need to make a scene, the bigger issue is to be there to voice our disapproval of these poorly conceived legislative proposals.

Now, back to Rep. Swalm:


Dear friends,

As many of you know, I do not support additional restrictions to the 2nd Amendment rights. Specifically, I believe that restricting law-abiding citizens will not stop criminals from committing crimes.

With that being said, I would like to ask you to come to the state Capitol on Tuesday, February 12, and Wednesday, February 13, to show your opposition and speak against the following anti-gun bills:

- On Tuesday, February 12, House Bill 13-1224 and House Bill 13-1229 are scheduled to be heard in the House Judiciary Committee in the Old Supreme Court Chamber in the Capitol upon adjournment of the House. HB13-1224, sponsored by state Representative Rhonda Fields (D-42), would ban magazines that hold more than ten rounds. HB13-1229, sponsored by state Representatives Rhonda Fields D-42) and Beth McCann (D-8), would prohibit and criminalize the private transfer of firearms.

- On Wednesday, February 13, House Bill 13-1226 will be heard by the House Education Committee upon adjournment in the Old Supreme Court Chamber, and House Bill 13-1228 will be heard by the House Finance Committee at 1:30 pm in the Old Supreme Court Chamber. HB13-1226, sponsored by state Representative Clare Levy (D-13), would repeal the current right to carry a concealed firearm for self-defense on a college or university campus. HB13-1228, sponsored by state Representative Lois Court (D-6), would require law-abiding citizens to pay a fee (or gun tax) for a background check when purchasing a firearm.

I encourage you to tell state legislators, especially those serving on these committees, to vote NO on HB13-1224, HB13-1226, HB13-1228 and HB13-1229. Without your direct help this week, these anti-gun, anti-Constitution bills have a strong chance of passing into law. Please come to the state Capitol in Denver to respectfully protect your rights.

Thank you for the honor of serving as your Representative.

Sincerely,
Spencer Swalm

[JVC]

Please remember to email the members of the committees Rep. Landgraf mentioned below. I'll try to make a list before end of week.


Dear JVC,

Thank you for your e-mail regarding our Second Amendment rights.

I am in full support of those rights. In fact, I am sponsoring legislation, HB 13-1187, which will make it a first degree misdemeanor (up to 18 months in jail) for a federal agent who attempts to enforce any new federal restrictions on our right to bear arms in Colorado.

This is where I need your support as the Democrats have the majority in the legislature. We need their votes to get this bill to the Governor’s desk. Please, call and write the members of the House State, Veterans and Military Affairs Committee before my bill is heard on February 18.

Also, whether or not it is in regards to my bill, consider taking the time to come to the Capitol and testify on behalf of your Second Amendments rights. As a new legislator, it is amazing to me to see how the Democrats pack the committee hearings with their supporters.

I also welcome your watchfulness. I and my fellow Republicans can only hope that the majority Democrats are watched just as closely. Thank you again for your e-mail.

Sincerely,
Lois Landgraf
State Representative
House District 21

[merl]

now we're talking about legislation that will die in committee.

[scratchy]

Jared Polis canned response

Better than most Dems. I suspect it's expedient:

February 13, 2013

Dxxxx Xxxxxxxx
XXXX XXXXX XX
Broomfield, CO

Dear Dxxxx:

Thank you for contacting me to express your thoughts on the recent debate about guns. I appreciate hearing from you on this important issue and apologize for any delay in my reply.

As you may know, I am a strong supporter of our Second Amendment rights, and I feel strongly that we have a responsibility to protect the rights of lawful Americans to own guns for protection, recreation and sport. I am skeptical that an outright ban on particular weaponry would have any meaningful impact on violent crime. I fear that some of the policies being proposed by a number of my colleagues in Congress would make it more difficult for Colorado families to defend themselves when in harm's way, and could also interfere with the recreational use of certain weapons by law-abiding Coloradans. While I support parts of the President's plan to reduce gun violence, I am also skeptical of the price tag associated with it. The $500 million that it would take to implement this plan could be better spent reducing the deficit and investing in critical education improvements and mental health services.

I believe that the best way to reduce violent crime is to ensure that kids have access to opportunities and jobs and do not turn to crime or join gangs out of desperation. One of my top priorities in Congress has been reforming our education system. I am a strong supporter of the Race to the Top program, with the goal of rewarding states that implement beneficial education reforms including parental choice, better professional development and teacher training, turning around failing schools, closing the achievement gap, charter schools, and better data systems to identify best practices. To support these efforts, I recently introduced H.R. 426, the Race to the Top Act, which would expand the program to school districts and reauthorize the program for five years, giving states the support they need to implement comprehensive reforms and compete for federal funding. This legislation prioritizes rural and high-poverty districts and supports increased teacher and principal effectiveness to ensure that all students have equal opportunity to succeed. The Race to the Top program has already unleashed a wave of creative education reforms all around the nation. By better educating our children and understanding their environments at school, we can provide a place of learning that is safe and addresses the needs of our most vulnerable.

In addition to supporting education reforms, Congress must work to increase and improve mental health resources. While the vast majority of those who suffer from mental illness are as non-violent as those who don't, many recent gun tragedies that our nation has suffered have been perpetrated by individuals who may have suffered from mental illness. It is past due for Congress to address the lack of treatment and assistance we offer our mentally disabled citizens. By supporting efforts to install more highly trained counselors in our schools and to provide the resources that parents, families, teachers and employers need, we can help those who suffer from mental illness while reducing the kinds of mass shootings to which our nation has sadly grown accustomed. I am hopeful that Congress will respond to these tragic shootings in a way that makes our nation safer while continuing to uphold the liberties guaranteed by the Constitution.

Thank you again for contacting me on this important issue. I hope my letter addresses your particular concerns. If I can be of any further assistance on this, or any other issue, please do not hesitate to contact me at (303) 484-9596 (tel:(303) 484-9596). I also encourage you to visit my website and sign up to receive my e-newsletter at http://www.polis.house.gov.

JP/al


Sincerely,


http://polis.house.gov/UploadedFiles/JaredSignature.JPG


Jared Polis
Member of Congress

[JoeT]

better than I expected

[mb504]

I got a variant of that...

----------------

Thank you for contacting me to express your thoughts on the recent debate about guns. I appreciate hearing from you on this important issue and apologize for any delay in my reply.

In 2001, Colorado voters overwhelmingly approved an amendment to the state Constitution that closed the gun show loophole in our state, requiring every gun seller at a gun show to conduct a background check of the buyer before completing the sale. However, Colorado's efforts to reduce gun violence and trafficking are hindered by the flow of illegal guns from states without background check requirements. As a result of these discrepancies, one-third of guns used in crimes are not used in the state in which they were originally purchased. By closing the gun show loophole at the national level, we will help keep guns out of the hands of those who seek to cause mass pain and suffering in our communities-without interfering with law-abiding Coloradans' right to purchase guns.

In addition to closing the gun show loophole, I believe Congress must work to implement a system of universal background checks while protecting privacy. Approximately 40 percent of guns in the United States are sold without a background check ever having taken place, giving criminals easy access to dangerous weaponry.

I believe that the best way to reduce violent crime is to ensure that kids have access to opportunities and jobs and do not turn to crime or join gangs out of desperation. One of my top priorities in Congress has been improving our education system. I am a strong supporter of the Race to the Top program, with the goal of rewarding states that implement beneficial education reforms including parental choice, better professional development and training for teachers, turning around failing schools, closing the achievement gap, charter schools, and better data systems to identify best practices. To support these efforts, I recently introduced H.R. 426, the Race to the Top Act, which would expand the program to school districts and reauthorize the program for five years, giving states the support they need to implement comprehensive reforms and compete for federal funding. This legislation prioritizes rural and high-poverty districts and supports increased teacher and principal effectiveness to ensure that all students have equal opportunity to succeed. The Race to the Top program has already unleashed a wave of creative education reforms all around the nation. By better educating our children and understanding their environments at school, we can provide a place of learning that is safe and addresses the needs of our most vulnerable.

In addition to supporting education reforms, Congress must work to increase and improve mental health resources. While the vast majority of those who suffer from mental illness are as non-violent as those who don't, many recent gun tragedies that our nation has suffered have been perpetrated by individuals who may have suffered from mental illness. It is past due for Congress to address the lack of treatment and assistance we offer our mentally disabled citizens. By supporting efforts to install more highly trained counselors in our schools and to provide the resources that parents, families, teachers and employers need, we can help those who suffer from mental illness while reducing the kinds of mass shootings to which our nation has sadly grown accustomed. I am hopeful that Congress will respond to these tragic shootings in a way that makes our nation safer while continuing to uphold the liberties guaranteed by the Constitution.

Thank you again for contacting me on this important issue. I hope my letter addresses your particular concerns. If I can be of any further assistance on this, or any other issue, please do not hesitate to contact me at (303) 484-9596. I also encourage you to visit my website and sign up to receive my e-newsletter at http://www.polis.house.gov.

JP/al


Sincerely,
(signed)

[DeusExMachina]

Hi Phil,

Thanks for the email. As I poll my constituents, the majority are in favor of the Democratic bills we are proposing. Polls of the American people support this as well.

Thank you,

My response:


Paul,

I understand, but please keep in mind you represent Coloradans, namely your constituents, and not the American people as a whole. Many polls of the general public are biased, with some reporting opposing feelings with a large margin of error and a mathematically insufficient sample size. I believe it would be best to stick to your voter base.

Thank you,
Phil

[mahabali]

Perhaps this turd needs to become the subject of a recall election?

They all do, this is getting out of control.

[mahabali]

Doesnt matter, as out state laws will be more restrictive that federal laws.

[skydog]

I just tried to phone several of the Colorado State Democrat representatives to voice my objection to State house Bill 1224, 1226, 1228 & 1229. Everyone I tried had an answering machine pick up and then when you tried to leave a message is says "I'm sorry the users mail box is full". I also have my FAX machine attempting to send a letter to each of them and it is been busy for hours. I hope everyone is using their e-mail accounts to flood these folks with objections to the bills and your request for them to vote NO!

keep up the effort!

Sky [pick-me]

[USAFGopherMike]

Has anybody talked to Polis in person?

[exxonv]

Sent: Saturday, February 16, 2013 11:17 AM

To: 'max@maxtyler.us'; 'mferrandino@yahoo.com'; 'lois.court.house@state.co.us'

Cc: 'irene.aguilar.senate@state.co.us'; 'david.balmer.senate@state.co.us'; 'randy.baumgardner.senate@state.co.us'; 'greg@gregbrophy.net'; 'bill.cadman.senate@state.co.us'; 'morgan.carroll.senate@state.co.us'; 'larry.crowder.senate@state.co.us'; 'angela.giron.senate@state.co.us'; 'kevin.grantham.senate@state.co.us'; 'lucia.guzman.senate@state.co.us'; 'ted.harvey.senate@state.co.us'; 'rollie.heath.senate@state.co.us'; 'owen.hill.senate@state.co.us'; 'mary.hodge.senate@state.co.us'; 'senatorhudak@gmail.com'; 'cheri.jahn.senate@state.co.us'; 'mike.johnston.senate@state.co.us'; 'senatormattjones@gmail.com'; 'john.kefalas.senate@state.co.us'; 'andy.kerr.senate@state.co.us'; 'steve.king.senate@state.co.us'; 'senatorlambert@comcast.net'; 'kevin@kevinlundberg.com'; 'vicki.marble.senate@state.co.us'; 'john.morse.senate@state.co.us'; 'linda.newell.senate@gmail.com'; 'jeanne.nicholson.senate@state.co.us'; 'senatorrenfroe@gmail.com'; 'ellen.roberts.senate@state.co.us'; 'mark.scheffel.senate@state.co.us'; 'gail.schwartz.senate@gmail.com'; 'pat.steadman.senate@state.co.us'; 'lotochtrop@aol.com'; 'nancy.todd.senate@state.co.us'; 'jessie.ulibarri.senate@state.co.us'; 'john.buckner.house@state.co.us'; 'perrybuck4@gmail.com'; 'kathleen.conti.house@state.co.us'; 'don.coram.house@state.co.us'; 'brian@briandelgrosso.com'; 'justin.everett.house@state.co.us'; 'thomas.exum.house@state.co.us'; 'rhonda.fields.house@state.co.us'; 'randyfischer@frii.com'; 'mike.foote.house@state.co.us'; 'leroy.garcia.house@state.co.us'; 'bob.gardner.house@state.co.us'; 'cheri.gerou@gmail.com'; 'joann.ginal.house@state.co.us'; 'millie.hamner.house@state.co.us'; 'chris.holbert.house@state.co.us'; 'dl.hullinghorst.house@state.co.us'; 'rephumphrey48@yahoo.com'; 'janak.joshi.house@state.co.us'; 'repkagan@gmail.com'; 'reptracy29@gmail.com'; 'jeanne.labuda.house@state.co.us'; 'lois.landgraf.house@state.co.us'; 'polly.lawrence.house@state.co.us'; 'steve.lebsock.house@state.co.us'; 'pete.lee.house@state.co.us'; 'claire.levy.house@state.co.us'; 'jenise.may.house@state.co.us'; 'beth.mccann.house@state.co.us'; 'mike.mclachlan.house@state.co.us'; 'jovan.melton.house@state.co.us'; 'diane.mitschbush.house@state.co.us'; 'dominick.moreno.house@state.co.us'; 'murrayhouse45@gmail.com'; 'clarice.navarro.house@state.co.us'; 'dan.nordberg.house@state.co.us'; 'dan.pabon.house@state.co.us'; 'cherylin.peniston.house@state.co.us'; 'brittany.pettersen.house@state.co.us'; 'dianne.primavera.house@state.co.us'; 'kpriola@gmail.com'; 'bob.rankin.house@state.co.us'; 'paul.rosenthal.house@state.co.us'; 'su.ryden.house@state.co.us'; 'lori.saine.house@state.co.us'; 'joseph.salazar.house@state.co.us'; 'sue.schafer.house@state.co.us'; 'ray.scott.house@state.co.us'; 'jonathan.singer.house@state.co.us'; 'jerry@repsonnenberg.com'; 'amy.stephens.house@state.co.us'; 'spencer.swalm.house@state.co.us'; 'libby.szabo.house@state.co.us'; 'edvigil1@gmail.com'; 'mark.waller.house@state.co.us'; 'angela.williams.house@state.co.us'; 'james.wilson.house@state.co.us'; 'jared.wright.house@state.co.us'; 'dave.young.house@state.co.us'; 'tim.dore.house@state.co.us'
Subject: Gun Control and the House

I read these comments this morning:

Rep. Max Tyler, D-Lakewood, countered that every issue is fodder in his Jefferson County swing district. "I have to stand up and do what I think is right," he said. "I'm not going to worry about what they're going to slice and dice and run against me. I have to vote for what I think is correct, what I think my district supports and what my conscience supports."

"Limiting the number of bullets will save lives," countered Rep. Lois Court, D-Denver. "It's intuitive ... more bullets, more weapons, more killing. Less bullets, less weapons, less killing."

"We proposed reasonable gun-safety and public-safety legislation, and we've had a vigorous debate over it," said House Speaker Mark Ferrandino, D-Denver. "I'm confident it will reduce the level of gun violence in communities across the state."

These comments unfortunately are not surprising. The level of ignorance to the actual cause of violence is alarming. Rep Court, limiting bullets saves lives? Intuitive? I think not. Bullets are not the reason for the levels of violence in our state – attacking our 2nd Amendment rights (for law abiding citizens) is not going to help resolve the issue. James Holmes did use non-OEM magazines (NOT 30-round AR-magazines, he reportedly used a 75 or 100 round drum magazine). My question to you - how many more .223 caliber rifles were used in crime last year in Colorado? The answer is pretty clear.

Rep Salazar amended the limit from 10 to -15 rounds (a step in the right direction Sir, but not quite the answer). 15-rounds vs. 17 rounds and this will save lives? 30-round magazines are standard in the .223 rifles that many sportsmen use for 3-gun and other Colorado sports. How many 30-round magazines were used in Colorado last year in violent crime? Do the research PLEASE. The answer should astound you. Rep Salazar is the only Democrat who tried to strike any balance, but I have to wonder what research lead to 15 vs. 10? I’d like a sound answer as to what data points to 30-round magazines being the reason for violent crime in our state. What data supports your views that any limit is the answer. If not 10-rounds, why not 30-rounds? You could’ve kept Magpul in our state (jobs and revenue), you can say you were able to limit violent crime (which I completely disagree with – we know this is not true), and you can tell VP Biden you did something. But you chose to attack our 2nd Amendment rights without any factual basis for your proposal.

The murderer in CT reportedly used an AR-15 in some reports, and didn’t in others. Again – how many crimes nationally were committed with a 30-round magazine last year? Compare that extremely LOW number to how many die from drunk driving EVERY DAY (27 on average).

You cannot base legislation on emotion – you should be using factual information.

House Speaker Ferrandino – I disagree – this is NOT reasonable and it WILL NOT reduce the level of gun violence. Where is the factual information that this has worked in the past? We KNOW several states have similar bans on the east coast (and in California as well). Has this lowered their violent crime? The answer is no. Believe me, the Pro-Gun establishment will make great use of this information – and I applaud them. You say you are making “reasonable” gun legislation? I think the information already proves you wrong, and I believe the voters of our state will make the necessary changes.

Rep Tyler – I believe you have made a major error in your judgment Sir – Lakewood will make a change.

"I think it's going to produce incredible results for us in 2014," said Rep. Amy Stephens, R-Monument. I believe based on historical factual information, this will be a reality. You have all played into the emotion of this situation, and so far, have submitted absolutely nothing which will actually reduce violence in our state. You have directly attacked law abiding gun owners.

I want to personally thank those of you who support our 2nd Amendment rights. You have stood your ground against this emotional ignorance. Speaking for myself and the great many people that I have spoken with about these issues – we will not forget what you have done for us. I want to THANK Senator Marble, and Representatives Humphrey, Wright, Nordberg, and Saine, Rep Priola, Representative Holbert, Senator Crowder, Senator Harvey, Representatives Waller, Sonnenberg, Landgraf, Swalm, Dore, Senator Lundberg, Senator Brophy, and others who have written me back telling me they will protect our 2nd Amendment rights. You are my heroes in this struggle, and I will be one of your MANY strong supports in the coming years.

To those who vote to approve the 15-magazine limit, the conceal carry restriction for college students, and the background check tax, we will do our best to ensure you do not run another term in our state. You do realize that you have sent NOTHING through about mental illness? To date you have sent forth NO legislation that will actually lower the violent crime in our state. I encourage you to prove otherwise to me. In fact, you have done nothing but show your willingness to violate our rights under the 2nd Amendment.

You will place Colorado voters at risk by limiting our ability to defend ourselves, taxing us for our right, and taking freedom from our college age students.

To say I am disgusted is a gross understatement.

[Kraven251]

Very well said, and I can keep hoping that some one listens or say 10% of the Dems in the Senate come down with the flu next week.

[TheGrey]

Nicely stated!

[Clint45]

Depending how their vote goes, I'd support posting their photos and addresses for all to see.

[exxonv]

Thanks all - I agree, photos and e-mail addresses for sure.

[Slapps74]

Well said.

[DHCO]

I got a response from Senator Brophy saying he supports our rights and to please never vote democrat again.

[exxonv]

I've heard from everyone I noted in my e-mail as being pro 2nd Amendment. Some great folks representing us. I've even heard from a few Democrats (their emails are "on the fence" type e-mails). I've been writing since Sandy Hook, I spend an hour every week crafting up something for Colorado and for the Feds. Politically I doubt most care, but those who do support us need to know that we are supporting them. Those who don't need to know that we will hold them accountable.

I've never been much of a political activist, but I can say that this situation has changed that for good.

Senator Brophy told me a similar message - and Senator Marble is trying hard to put pro-gun legislation. Our side is woefully out numbered, but we can change that at the 2014 mid-terms.

[tmleadr03]

Thank you for participating in the legislative process, I value your input.


First and foremost I want to assure you that NONE of the bills will result in restriction of the constitutionally guaranteed right to bear arms. These bills have not yet been referred to the Senate. When they do come to the Senate, I will look at all sides before I make any decisions.


Please feel free to contact me again with any further concerns.


Sincerely,

Senator Irene Aguilar, MD
Click here for more information about Senator Aguilar (http://www.aguilarfor32.com/)



Sigh. She doesn't understand. Restricting mags is restricting the right to keep and bear arms.

[mountainjenny]

I got the exact same email from her.

[Sharpienads]

Uhhh...

She must not know what the Second Amendment says.

[spqrzilla]

Tell her she's a liar. But she does not care.

Tell her that the Democrats are succeeding in making sure all gun owners in Colorado vote against Democrats in the next cycle. That's all she cares about.

[buffalobo]

Just about enough arrogance to make blood shoot out of my eyes.[pileoshit]

[tmleadr03]

I am working on a response.

Evening Ma'am,

I greatly appreciate your response to my e-mail. I think you and I have different definitions of the word "restrict". To say that a magazine restriction is not an infringement on the right to keep and bear arms is like saying a page restriction on books would not be an infringement on the right to free speech.

[Scanker19]

I am working on a response.

Evening Ma'am,

I greatly appreciate your response to my e-mail. I think you and I have different definitions of the word "restrict". To say that a magazine restriction is not an infringement on the right to keep and bear arms is like saying a page restriction on books would not be an infringement on the right to free speech.



You can do the same thing with a 15 page book that you can with a 30 page book. Think of the children....

[merl]

You can do the same thing with a 15 page book that you can with a 30 page book. Think of the children....

TLDR please

[KAPA]

People like that think that as long as you have a 1 round magazine your right is not infringed. That is when once there is a number applied they will continue to peck away at it until it does get to 1. Look at CA with 10, and NY with 7. Soon there will be someone with 5 and then 3. That is why it is important to stop this now before a # can even be applied.

[zteknik]

Restrictions to their paycheck and term limits are the only things they will understand..

[EvilRhino]

What about the Colorado constitution that states the right of an individual to defend themselves and property shall not be questioned. Where the ability to restrict based on that? Where does it say "as long as you don't have more than 15 round magazines, though carry as many as you want."

[brutal]

The first law of nature, God if you will, gave me the right to defend myself. The Constitution offers me the protection from my government against infringement of that right.

[robertcolorado2009]

What is so difficult to understand what "shall not infringe" means????

[brutal]

I just sent an e-mail to every one of those POS in the house.


None of these bills will positively affect public safety and you know that. This is all about control. You blatantly have no concern for the protection of my rights or my safety.

The first law of nature, God if you will, gave me the right to defend myself. The Constitution offers me the protection from my government against infringement of that right.

You have voted to take that right away from me. You have violated your oath to uphold and defend The Constitution. The people of Colorado will not forget what you have done.

Sincerely,

Rxxxxxx Txxxxxxx
Husband, father, citizen

[Fmedges]

What is so difficult to understand what "shall not infringe" means????

They all understand it perfectly well. Why is it so difficult to see there true motives?

[mountainjenny]

I replied to Senator Aquilar thanking her for the form letter response and mentioning that I would likely contact her again.

She responded with. "You are welcome. I suggest you contact your own representatives."

[osok-308]

This lady is full of it. She needs to go.

[GilpinGuy]

I got the same response. I literally laughed out loud, then got sad when I realized how truly fucked we are here in Colofornia unless things REALLY turn around in the next election cycle. It probably won't turn around, so....WY!

At least she responded though. The vast majority don't bother. And why should they? They're in safe Dem districts. They can give a shit about you or me.

[BPTactical]

I love you, the check is in the mail and.....................

[wctriumph]

I have received three responses from my rep's, two from Polis that were posted by others above and trhis from Greg Brophy:

Thank you for taking the time to write. We are swamped with emails right now, but yours is important to me and I try to read all of them, especially the shorter ones.
I will vote against any bill that infringes on the Second Amendment, including 1224, 1226, 1228 and 1229, and will support any bill that expands rights for law abiding gun owners.
I am very worried about the negative impacts of these bills to individual liberty, safety and jobs in Colorado. I cannot believe that we are even this close to passing them.
I want you to remember who has been pushing these bills that infringe upon our Second Amendment. No Republican will vote for any of these bills. These bills are supported only by Democrats; even the few Democrats who voted against them in the House voted to enable Democrat Leadership to ram these bills through.
Never forget that. Make sure that you hold them accountable in the next election cycle.
Greg

[pjsjr]

from Greg Brophy:

I received this same response from Senator Brophy...his was the only one I received from emails I sent to all senators this morning. Preston

[Dave_L]

I received this one back yesterday.

"Regardless of whether you are a Democrat or a Republican, the gun safety debate is a tough issue.

As a 6th generation Coloradan with a family ranch in Southern Colorado, it should come as no surprise that hunting is a part of my family tradition and heritage. As long as I can remember, my family and I ate more elk, rabbit, fish and pheasants than we ever ate chicken or beef. We would make elk with everything – elk burgers, elk green chili, elk spaghetti sauce – and if you know how to cook it just right, it doesn't taste the least bit “gamey." The tradition of hunting is at the very core of my family, as my nephew recently completed his first hunter safety training at the age of ten. You can bet that if I ever have a son or daughter, I will be the first to sign them up for a hunter safety course so they can keep my family's tradition alive.

As a Coloradan and a State Representative sworn to uphold the Constitution of the United States, I could not support any reform that would ignore Colorado’s western heritage or unreasonably impair the 2nd Amendment rights of our citizens. But I also understand that the right to do so is not unlimited, especially in a time in which our society suffers from such a tragic gun violence epidemic.

This weekend, I researched our current regulations for hunters. In Colorado, hunters are only permitted to have three shells when they go pheasant hunting. This is so there is a "fair chase," an opportunity for pheasants to get away when they are being hunted while hunters reload their gun. Today, we have stronger regulations to protect pheasants than we do to protect human beings.

During the twelve-hour gun debate in the statehouse last Friday, I said, “This is about kids who have been shot, over and over and over again. I am tired of seeing kids die, year after year, after year, after year.”

Although I don't talk about it much, growing up in Colorado, I was not immune to the effects of gun violence.

My high school boyfriend's best friend was shot in Denver on 33rd and High Street after members of a gang drove up and shot him. Why? He was wearing a Denver Broncos' jacket that they wanted.

About eleven years ago a friend of mine was in the Columbine High School cafeteria when Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold committed that awful massacre.

And in the latest shooting at the Century Movie Theatre in Aurora, my mother's cousin, his fiancé and baby were present when James Holmes open fired on the crowd. Although they successfully escaped with minor wounds, the shooting had a profound effect on their lives.

I cannot and will not wait for another friend or family member to become a victim of gun violence. The time is now to act.

Perhaps the debate at the Colorado Legislature over closing the background check loophole, additional investments in mental health, and common sense gun safety regulations are not the only answers to the gun violence that we face in this country, but it is a meaningful first step. To not take action and simply say the problem is too difficult, is not taking our oath of office seriously.

In order to form a more perfect Union, we must establish justice, promote the general welfare, safety and security of the public.


--
Crisanta Duran
State Representative for House District 5 "

I put the parts in bold that caught my ear.

She JUST started researching things this past weekend? Really?

More regulations for pheasants? Um, no. Murder is still illegal. Shooting even one round at a human is illegal. And what, by limiting magazines she's giving us a "fair chance" to scurry away while he reloads? If the pheasant could shoot a gun, I guarantee it'd be carrying a 30 round mag to fight back and defend itself if it knew what hunters were there to do.

Then she's blaming law abiding citizens for the actions of a gang member.

UGH!

[muddywings]

From Grantham:

(I put in a short tidbit about being a vet and former LEO):



First, I want to thank you for your service to our country. Without your sacrifice, and that of millions like you, America would not be the free country she is today.

I will not be supporting any of the bills up this session. HB’s 12-1224, 1226, 1228, and 1229 are all infringements on the rights of the law-abiding, not restrictions on the criminals. Criminals will circumvent the law, because they are criminals. I’m not sure why that connection is so difficult for some in this building. If these bills are passed, all we will have done is make it harder for the law-abiding to protect themselves against those for whom neither the law nor respect for their fellow human beings is any deterrent.
My pro-2nd Amendment sentiment is not a recent position; it has been one of my main policy objectives, since coming to the Capitol two years ago. I have supported “constitutional carry” legislation in the past, including SB 12-025 last year, that would have further removed restrictions on your right to own guns. I have also supported expanding Colorado’s “castle doctrine” to businesses (HB 12-1088), which would have allowed authorized persons to employ deadly force, if necessary, in defense of life or property at a business
Again, thank you for contacting me, and be certain that I will be supporting the 2nd Amendment and not the anti-gun lobby.
Sincerely,
Sen. Kevin Grantham
District 2

[The Rat]

Noncommittal reply from Sen. Newell:




Thank you for taking the time to reach out about possible gun safety legislation and community violence prevention. Your input helps so much in our legislative process.

It is clear that we need to have an ongoing public conversation about gun safety, mental health, and prevention of violence. I will review the specifics of proposed legislation and weigh all the options. As of right now, no bills related to gun safety have come before me. When this time comes, I will keep your thoughts in mind.

Together, we need to find reasonable solutions that protect the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens, while keeping guns out of the hands of potentially dangerous people and finding a more comprehensive approach to dealing with all factors that could contribute to violence, including mental illness and managing conflict. And most importantly, I believe we need to continue to practice treating each other with kindness, compassion, tolerance and civility.

Thank you again for your input.

Sincerely,

Linda Newell
State Senator, District 26

[two shoes]

Senator Aguilar...

This is what I sent her initially:

"I ask that look at what the County Sheriffs of Colorado have to say about proposed legislation:

http://www.csoc.org/ppdocs/GunControlLegislation.pdf

I also ask that you review real data. Please look at the FBI Crime statistics. If gun control worked, Chicago and New York City would be the safest cities in the US. Please look here and draw your own conclusions:



Choose Your Own Crime Stats (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ooa98FHuaU0)"

and her reply:

"Thank you for contacting me with your concerns regarding the recently introduced firearm safety bills here at the State Legislature.


Our nation has a rich history of responsible gun ownership and we guarantee extensive rights for gun owners. None of Colorado's proposed legislation would remove the right of responsible citizens to bear arms.


I recognize and support the rights of law abiding citizens to own guns. None of the proposals before the legislature would violate the 2nd Amendment as interpreted by the Supreme Court.


Thank you again for contacting me with your concerns."




Sincerely,


Senator Irene Aguilar, MD

Chair, Senate Health and Human Services Committee



The Office of Senator Irene Aguilar, M.D.State Capitol, Room 266
303-866-4852 (tel:303-866-4852)
www.aguilarfor32.com (http://www.aguilarfor32.com/)

[avandelay]

Senator Aguilar...

This is what I sent her initially:

"I ask that look at what the County Sheriffs of Colorado have to say about proposed legislation:

http://www.csoc.org/ppdocs/GunControlLegislation.pdf

I also ask that you review real data. Please look at the FBI Crime statistics. If gun control worked, Chicago and New York City would be the safest cities in the US. Please look here and draw your own conclusions:



Choose Your Own Crime Stats (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ooa98FHuaU0)"

and her reply:

"Thank you for contacting me with your concerns regarding the recently introduced firearm safety bills here at the State Legislature.


Our nation has a rich history of responsible gun ownership and we guarantee extensive rights for gun owners. None of Colorado's proposed legislation would remove the right of responsible citizens to bear arms.


I recognize and support the rights of law abiding citizens to own guns. None of the proposals before the legislature would violate the 2nd Amendment as interpreted by the Supreme Court.


Thank you again for contacting me with your concerns."




Sincerely,


Senator Irene Aguilar, MD

Chair, Senate Health and Human Services Committee



The Office of Senator Irene Aguilar, M.D.State Capitol, Room 266
303-866-4852 (tel:303-866-4852)
www.aguilarfor32.com (http://www.aguilarfor32.com/)

That's the same thing she has been putting out for a while. A canned message to keep the masses at bay while she votes your rights away. Hopefully she is on the short list for recall.

[hollohas]

From: Irene Aguilar
Thank you for participating in the legislative process, I value your input.



First and foremost I want to assure you that NONE of the bills will result in restriction of the constitutionally guaranteed right to bear arms. These bills have not yet been referred to the Senate. When they do come to the Senate, I will look at all sides before I make any decisions.

[brutal]

I received this one back yesterday.

"Regardless of whether you are a Democrat or a Republican, the gun safety debate is a tough issue.

As a 6th generation Coloradan with a family ranch in Southern Colorado, it should come as no surprise that hunting is a part of my family tradition and heritage. As long as I can remember, my family and I ate more elk, rabbit, fish and pheasants than we ever ate chicken or beef. We would make elk with everything – elk burgers, elk green chili, elk spaghetti sauce – and if you know how to cook it just right, it doesn't taste the least bit “gamey." The tradition of hunting is at the very core of my family, as my nephew recently completed his first hunter safety training at the age of ten. You can bet that if I ever have a son or daughter, I will be the first to sign them up for a hunter safety course so they can keep my family's tradition alive.

As a Coloradan and a State Representative sworn to uphold the Constitution of the United States, I could not support any reform that would ignore Colorado’s western heritage or unreasonably impair the 2nd Amendment rights of our citizens. But I also understand that the right to do so is not unlimited, especially in a time in which our society suffers from such a tragic gun violence epidemic.

This weekend, I researched our current regulations for hunters. In Colorado, hunters are only permitted to have three shells when they go pheasant hunting. This is so there is a "fair chase," an opportunity for pheasants to get away when they are being hunted while hunters reload their gun. Today, we have stronger regulations to protect pheasants than we do to protect human beings.

During the twelve-hour gun debate in the statehouse last Friday, I said, “This is about kids who have been shot, over and over and over again. I am tired of seeing kids die, year after year, after year, after year.”

Although I don't talk about it much, growing up in Colorado, I was not immune to the effects of gun violence.

My high school boyfriend's best friend was shot in Denver on 33rd and High Street after members of a gang drove up and shot him. Why? He was wearing a Denver Broncos' jacket that they wanted.

About eleven years ago a friend of mine was in the Columbine High School cafeteria when Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold committed that awful massacre.

And in the latest shooting at the Century Movie Theatre in Aurora, my mother's cousin, his fiancé and baby were present when James Holmes open fired on the crowd. Although they successfully escaped with minor wounds, the shooting had a profound effect on their lives.

I cannot and will not wait for another friend or family member to become a victim of gun violence. The time is now to act.

Perhaps the debate at the Colorado Legislature over closing the background check loophole, additional investments in mental health, and common sense gun safety regulations are not the only answers to the gun violence that we face in this country, but it is a meaningful first step. To not take action and simply say the problem is too difficult, is not taking our oath of office seriously.

In order to form a more perfect Union, we must establish justice, promote the general welfare, safety and security of the public.


--
Crisanta Duran
State Representative for House District 5 "

I put the parts in bold that caught my ear.

She JUST started researching things this past weekend? Really?

More regulations for pheasants? Um, no. Murder is still illegal. Shooting even one round at a human is illegal. And what, by limiting magazines she's giving us a "fair chance" to scurry away while he reloads? If the pheasant could shoot a gun, I guarantee it'd be carrying a 30 round mag to fight back and defend itself if it knew what hunters were there to do.

Then she's blaming law abiding citizens for the actions of a gang member.

UGH!

Why is hunting and 2A rights in the same conversation? Fucking retard.

Law abiding citizens follow (constitutionally sound) laws and reasonable regulations that do not infringe. Bangers, thugs, and murderers do not follow either the laws of man, nor the laws of a government. If they did, there would be no crime!

[hollohas]

Why is hunting and 2A rights in the same conversation? Fucking retard.

Law abiding citizens follow (constitutionally sound) laws and reasonable regulations that do not infringe. Bangers, thugs, and murderers do not follow either the laws of man, nor the laws of a government. If they did, there would be no crime!

Shouldn't be.

I found it telling that she said she grew up in a "6th generation hunting family" yet she had to spend the weekend researching to find out the max capacity for hunting birds...anyone who hunts knows that. But like you said, that's not the point.

I'll just say it...she's a liar. I am so sick of politicians.

[avandelay]

Shouldn't be.

I found it telling that she said she grew up in a "6th generation hunting family" yet she had to spend the weekend researching to find out the max capacity for hunting birds...anyone who hunts knows that. But like you said, that's not the point.

I'll just say it...she's a liar. I am so sick of politicians.

"I cannot and will not wait for another friend or family member to become a victim of gun violence. The time is now to act."

Seems like she is more than willing to go against the will of her constituents. It really doesn't matter what she feels or thinks if her constituents, whom she represents, want otherwise.

[Fmedges]

Why is hunting and 2A rights in the same conversation? Fucking retard.

Law abiding citizens follow (constitutionally sound) laws and reasonable regulations that do not infringe. Bangers, thugs, and murderers do not follow either the laws of man, nor the laws of a government. If they did, there would be no crime!

Because it's a roundabout way to tell you to go fuck yourself. Seriously even though I still try, I know that you cannot reason or debate with any of these people. They don't care about safety, they don't care about you or your family. All they care about is their fucked up view of the world and no amount of talking to, reasoning with, calling, threatening, or testifying will keep them from enacting their agenda.

[jslo]

I received this one back yesterday.

"Regardless of whether you are a Democrat or a Republican, the gun safety debate is a tough issue.

As a 6th generation Coloradan with a family ranch in Southern Colorado, it should come as no surprise that hunting is a part of my family tradition and heritage. As long as I can remember, my family and I ate more elk, rabbit, fish and pheasants than we ever ate chicken or beef. We would make elk with everything – elk burgers, elk green chili, elk spaghetti sauce – and if you know how to cook it just right, it doesn't taste the least bit “gamey." The tradition of hunting is at the very core of my family, as my nephew recently completed his first hunter safety training at the age of ten. You can bet that if I ever have a son or daughter, I will be the first to sign them up for a hunter safety course so they can keep my family's tradition alive.

As a Coloradan and a State Representative sworn to uphold the Constitution of the United States, I could not support any reform that would ignore Colorado’s western heritage or unreasonably impair the 2nd Amendment rights of our citizens. But I also understand that the right to do so is not unlimited, especially in a time in which our society suffers from such a tragic gun violence epidemic.

This weekend, I researched our current regulations for hunters. In Colorado, hunters are only permitted to have three shells when they go pheasant hunting. This is so there is a "fair chase," an opportunity for pheasants to get away when they are being hunted while hunters reload their gun. Today, we have stronger regulations to protect pheasants than we do to protect human beings.

During the twelve-hour gun debate in the statehouse last Friday, I said, “This is about kids who have been shot, over and over and over again. I am tired of seeing kids die, year after year, after year, after year.”

Although I don't talk about it much, growing up in Colorado, I was not immune to the effects of gun violence.

My high school boyfriend's best friend was shot in Denver on 33rd and High Street after members of a gang drove up and shot him. Why? He was wearing a Denver Broncos' jacket that they wanted.

About eleven years ago a friend of mine was in the Columbine High School cafeteria when Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold committed that awful massacre.

And in the latest shooting at the Century Movie Theatre in Aurora, my mother's cousin, his fiancé and baby were present when James Holmes open fired on the crowd. Although they successfully escaped with minor wounds, the shooting had a profound effect on their lives.

I cannot and will not wait for another friend or family member to become a victim of gun violence. The time is now to act.

Perhaps the debate at the Colorado Legislature over closing the background check loophole, additional investments in mental health, and common sense gun safety regulations are not the only answers to the gun violence that we face in this country, but it is a meaningful first step. To not take action and simply say the problem is too difficult, is not taking our oath of office seriously.

In order to form a more perfect Union, we must establish justice, promote the general welfare, safety and security of the public.


--
Crisanta Duran
State Representative for House District 5 "

I put the parts in bold that caught my ear.

She JUST started researching things this past weekend? Really?

More regulations for pheasants? Um, no. Murder is still illegal. Shooting even one round at a human is illegal. And what, by limiting magazines she's giving us a "fair chance" to scurry away while he reloads? If the pheasant could shoot a gun, I guarantee it'd be carrying a 30 round mag to fight back and defend itself if it knew what hunters were there to do.

Then she's blaming law abiding citizens for the actions of a gang member.

UGH!

This is word for word what she read on the house floor yesterday

[avandelay]

I heard this in the debate and had to do a double take. The stupidity.....it burns.

[Great-Kazoo]

I received this same response from Senator Brophy...his was the only one I received from emails I sent to all senators this morning. Preston

Likewise from brophy. Rep dave Young has failed to respond to my e-m informing him of magpuls Full page ad in the DP. major fail on his part and hopefully the greeley tribune will print my e-m to him along with an ireceived no reply to this of other valid questions pertaining to The citizens of Colorado's Constitutional Rights.

[Dave_L]

I've gotten a few more replies back today from the republicans in the senate confirming what we already knew. They'll vote against the bills.

[Mountain Man]

I have yet to hear back from a single democrat in The House or the Senate.

[bogie]

This is a dupe post but I just saw this thread and it belongs here. My email, then my only two responses....

Dear Senator,

Please oppose all bills which aim to restrict 2nd Amendment rights in our state of Colorado including:

HB13-1229: requiring background checks for all gun transactions; Judiciary & Appropriations
HB13-1226: banning concealed weapons on campuses; Education & Appropriations
HB13-1228: instituting a fee for gun buyers to cover the cost of the CBI to perform background checks; Finance & Appropriations
HB13-1224: limiting magazines to 15 rounds; Judiciary

My family, friends, and community are closely watching your actions and will vote accordingly in the next elections.

Sincerely,
bogie
U.S. Citizen
Colorado Resident

I've gotten two responses so far...


I am and will be a staunch supporter of the 2nd amendment. I took an oath to uphold the constitution, and I take seriously and will stand by this I hope to hear more from you in the future. All gun bills still have to come before the Senate. Also, I am not towing a line with a party, As a veteran I actually believe what I say in this e-mail
Larry Crowder
State Senator





Thank you for taking the time to write. We are swamped with emails right now, but yours is important to me and I try to read all of them, especially the shorter ones.
I will vote against any bill that infringes on the Second Amendment, including 1224, 1226, 1228 and 1229, and will support any bill that expands rights for law abiding gun owners.
I am very worried about the negative impacts of these bills to individual liberty, safety and jobs in Colorado. I cannot believe that we are even this close to passing them.
I want you to remember who has been pushing these bills that infringe upon our Second Amendment. No Republican will vote for any of these bills. These bills are supported only by Democrats; even the few Democrats who voted against them in the House voted to enable Democrat Leadership to ram these bills through.
Never forget that. Make sure that you hold them accountable in the next election cycle.

Senator Greg Brophy

[muddywings]

During the Rep email blitzkrieg I got an email from Vigil stating he was a No.
Has anybody gotten a a (D) from the CO Senate side stating they would be a no.
3 votes is seeming like a long ways off right now.

[sniper7]

Same response from brophy then i responded that recalls are being looked at and he said "go get them"!

[sniper7]

During the Rep email blitzkrieg I got an email from Vigil stating he was a No.
Has anybody gotten a a (D) from the CO Senate side stating they would be a no.
3 votes is seeming like a long ways off right now.


Have not heard a thing from any of then with my numerous emails. I think meeting in person is the way to go.

[CO303]

I got the "I'm going to do what my party tells me" answer from Agular today.

[esaabye]

This is what I responded with today



From: ME
Sent: Tuesday, February 19, 2013 7:58 PM
To: 'Jonathan Singer'
Subject: RE: Our Silly Gun Law Debate

Mr. Singer, thank you for your response. I am disappointed in your vote and I find the logic you used to be faulty.

As a critical thinker, I wonder how when evaluating the magazine limits you would state “I want to give bystanders the opportunity to get to safety and to stop the shooter (as happened in Arizona)” yet when considering CCW on campus you wish to prevent adults from having the capacity to defend themselves because others feel uncomfortable.

You say that you want to protect the rights of the educational institutions to decide vs. the state, then you place the institution above the individual. So you place the minority above the majority except where you place the majority above the minority. Very inconsistent.

In the end you are wrong, you limit my ability to defend myself in the false hope that criminals will adhere to your laws. This is a simplistic view of the world that does not reflect the reality of human nature.

I am sorry to learn that you are not an effective critical thinker. As an elected official I would suggest that you spend some time building those skills. While we can disagree about policy if your logic is inconsistent then we cannot even have a discussion.

I look forward seeing you at the next election, I’ll be the guy handing money to your opponent.

Thanks,
Eric



From: Jonathan Singer [mailto:repsinger@gmail.com (repsinger@gmail.com)]
Sent: Tuesday, February 19, 2013 2:35 PM
To: ME
Subject: Re: Our Silly Gun Law Debate

First of all, I want to thank all of you who over the last few weeks took your time to write to me regarding your concerns surrounding gun legislation at the State House. I have never met so many passionate people with such differing views. I spent time with competitive shooting instructors, students for and against concealed carry on campus, gun control advocates, educators, and law enforcement experts.

Before all was said and done, I went to the Longmont Police Department Shooting Range, used firearms for the first time (including the AR-15), and co-hosted a bi-partisan debate on gun laws with former Sen. Ken Gordon, Weld County DA Ken Buck, Dr. John Lott, and John Head. I sat down with constituents who had never even thought of contacting their elected official before and received literally thousands of emails and hundreds of phone calls. My part time staff and I are still dealing with the backlog, and it’s why I’m responding later than I normally would.

Here’s the breakdown of my votes. I didn’t come to any of these decisions quickly or easily. I know I caused a lot of consternation for wanting to examine all of the angles before casting my vote Monday. I’d rather make a tough informed decision than a knee-jerk ignorant vote.

House Bill 1229 - Requiring background checks for private sellers: YES
I voted yes on this bill based on the fact that Colorado’s comprehensive background checks have done a good job so far of stopping criminals from buying guns. When I met with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) recently they told me that last year alone, the CBI check resulted in the arrest of over 200 fugitives trying to illegally buy guns. Closing the private seller loophole better protects our citizens and gives sellers the peace of mind that they are selling to a law abiding citizen.

House Bill 1228 - Ending the taxpayer subsidy of CBI background checks: YES
As a former child protection, day care, and nursing home worker, either myself or my employer had to pay for my CBI background check. Last year, taxpayers subsidized gun buyers to the tune of nearly $2 million for that same background check. The average cost of a check is $12.00. This fee for service bill is fair and not financially restrictive.

House Bill 1224 - Limiting magazines to 15 Rounds: YES
Honestly this was a tough one. Some states have limited rounds to 7 per magazine, other states would allow a magazine of 100+ bullets. Originally this bill would have set the limit to 10 bullets. I believe the amendment allowing 15 bullets represents a compromise. I don’t believe that limiting magazine size will stop all crime. But in the case of mass shootings, I want to give bystanders the opportunity to get to safety and to stop the shooter (as happened in Arizona). The bill was amended to allow Colorado magazine companies such as Magpul to continue producing in the state. I hope this will save jobs, and I intend to visit their Headquarters very soon to talk to them about their concerns.

House Bill 1226 - College Campus Ban on Concealed Carry: YES
This may in fact have been the toughest vote for me. I truly believe that campus students, faculty and staff should have a say in their own campus life. The courts took that voice away when they permitted concealed carry essentially everywhere on campus.
Fear was the common thread among students I met with on this issue. Students for the bill were afraid that they could not freely disagree with their classmates without fear of violent reprisal. Students against the bill were afraid to walk home alone at night without some way to protect themselves. The outpouring of phone calls, text messages and emails from constituents and students across the state in favor of this bill put me in the YES column at the 11th Hour. We still have a responsibility to those students who fear for their well-being.
While I believe that those that would carry concealed are a minority, they are not an insignificant portion of the population and they have every right to feel as safe as any student. Since we at the Capitol made this decision on their behalf, it is now our responsibility to work with them to find new solutions.

I know that I haven't necessarily made a lot of friends throughout this debate, but I hope we can continue this discourse respectfully and without our ideologies blinding us to the real fear, passion, and desire to build a better, freer, safer Colorado.

Sincerely,

Rep. Singer


On Sun, Feb 17, 2013 at 6:57 PM, ME wrote:
I wanted to address my frustration while watching this process of debate. I watched many erroneous statements made by those who testified last week but that was expected. What angers me is the idea raised again and again by many of our legislators that we “Must do something!”, regardless of the relevance or impact. I heard several proponents admit that none of the proposed bills would have prevented any of the criminal actions. Despite these realities I heard over and over again that “We have to do something!”

In the business world we don’t take action unless it has a reasonable expectation of success. To do otherwise compounds the situation in unexpected ways. What I have witness thus for in the House looks pretty similar to watching my 8 year old try to make an argument. All emotion, no critical thinking. I am embarrassed for these elected officials when I watch and listen to the debate.

For the record, I am a long time Colorado resident, I have been contributing for decades into the economy and my community. I am the type of citizen you would hope for, I pay taxes and lots of them, I volunteer as a youth coach, I raise money for the hungry and I don’t break the law.

I am also a CCW holder and competitive rifle shooter with a national ranking. This last weekend I used standard magazines of 20 rounds to compete in a competition in Boulder. I also brought a spare rifle for a friend to use for the day. On the way home I took my daughter on a quick tour of the CU campus while I had my concealed pistol on my person. If these laws pass I would have broken 3 of them while no one would be any safer.

I don’t want to be a criminal so if these laws pass I must pursue relocating my salary, service and the significant economic contribution to a state that does not vilify me.

Please consider your vote carefully as I and many other will be watching closely.

If you have any question or wish to discuss this further feel free to contact me. I work just 2 blocks away and would be happy to meet with any of you to better explain how I as a lawful citizen will be negatively impacted by these measures.

Thank You,
ME

[butnewa]

Received the following replies...

--
From: Larry Crowder
I am and will be a staunch supporter of the 2nd amendment. I took an oath to uphold the constitution, and I take seriously and will stand by this I hope to hear more from you in the future. All gun bills still have to come before the Senate. Also, I am not towing a line with a party, As a veteran I actually believe what I say in this e-mail
Larry Crowder
State Senator
Republican

--

From: Senator Greg Brophy
Thank you for taking the time to write. We are swamped with emails right now, but yours is important to me and I try to read all of them, especially the shorter ones.

I will vote against any bill that infringes on the Second Amendment, including 1224, 1226, 1228 and 1229, and will support any bill that expands rights for law abiding gun owners.

I am very worried about the negative impacts of these bills to individual liberty, safety and jobs in Colorado. I cannot believe that we are even this close to passing them.

I want you to remember who has been pushing these bills that infringe upon our Second Amendment. No Republican will vote for any of these bills. These bills are supported only by Democrats; even the few Democrats who voted against them in the House voted to enable Democrat Leadership to ram these bills through.

Never forget that. Make sure that you hold them accountable in the next election cycle.

Greg

[bogie]

Received the following replies...

--
From: Larry Crowder
I am and will be a staunch supporter of the 2nd amendment. I took an oath to uphold the constitution, and I take seriously and will stand by this I hope to hear more from you in the future. All gun bills still have to come before the Senate. Also, I am not towing a line with a party, As a veteran I actually believe what I say in this e-mail
Larry Crowder
State Senator
Republican

--

From: Senator Greg Brophy
Thank you for taking the time to write. We are swamped with emails right now, but yours is important to me and I try to read all of them, especially the shorter ones.

I will vote against any bill that infringes on the Second Amendment, including 1224, 1226, 1228 and 1229, and will support any bill that expands rights for law abiding gun owners.

I am very worried about the negative impacts of these bills to individual liberty, safety and jobs in Colorado. I cannot believe that we are even this close to passing them.

I want you to remember who has been pushing these bills that infringe upon our Second Amendment. No Republican will vote for any of these bills. These bills are supported only by Democrats; even the few Democrats who voted against them in the House voted to enable Democrat Leadership to ram these bills through.

Never forget that. Make sure that you hold them accountable in the next election cycle.

Greg

Post 66 verbatim. I understand they can't write thousands of custom emails. At least they are working for their electorate and salaries.

[Fmedges]

At least they give you responses. I have yet to hear from a (D)

[firecrackerktm]

My letter:


I write to urge you yet again to consider the impact of the current
gun control issues set before the state. Consider your voters and the
impact these bills will have on LAW ABIDING CITIZENS' Constitutional
rights. Consider that no magazine limit, unenforceable "universal
background check" or "safe zone" is going to prevent a criminal from
committing an illegal act.

These bills have repercussions that can cost people's lives.

I am a female, a full time college student with some night classes,
and a rape victim. HB 13-1226 would make it a crime for me to defend
my personal safety on campus. The parking lot is poorly lit and the
campus police do not patrol the area - they are posted just outside
the front doors only. Would they be able to hear and respond in time
to a whistle, from their post on the other side of the building? Do
you think that preventing ordinary, law-abiding adults with concealed
carry permits from exercising their rights will cause criminals to
view college campuses as anything other than ripe hunting grounds?

HB 1224, 1228 and 1229 are equally ineffective and poorly thought out,
with no facts to support similar bans have worked in the past. They
are also costly and difficult to attempt to enforce--unless further
infringements on citizens' rights are also brought forth.
Do you really think that criminals will run to turn in 30-round magazines?
That would-be rapists and muggers will shy away from college campuses
because they are safe zones?
That a potential criminal will take the used gun he is buying from a
private owner into a gun store so he can pay for a background check?
The only result will be making it expensive and criminal for law
abiding citizens to defend themselves and pursue their hobbies.

Vote no on the gun control legislation in front of you. Colorado
doesn't need pointless, unenforceable, unConstitutional regulations.

Responses:



Charlotte,


Thanks for your heartfelt email. I did not speak out on any bill during the gun debate until HB 1226 came up. I am sure that you are disappointed that I voted in favor of it. If you would like to speak in more detail let me know. We can meet at the Capitol or on your campus. The thing that bothered me most about the bill was that many of the State Reps. did not actually take the time to ASK the students in their district how they felt this bill would affect them. Here is the email I sent people who wrote to me about HB 1226.


This may in fact have been the toughest vote for me. I truly believe that campus students, faculty and staff should have a say in their own campus life. The courts took that voice away when they permitted concealed carry essentially everywhere on campus.
Fear was the common thread among students I met with on this issue. Students for the bill were afraid that they could not freely disagree with their classmates without fear of violent reprisal. Students against the bill were afraid to walk home alone at night without some way to
protect themselves. The outpouring of phone calls, text messages and emails from constituents and students across the state in favor of this bill put me in the YES column at the 11th Hour. We still have a responsibility to those students who fear for their well-being.
While I believe that those that would carry concealed are a minority, they are not an insignificant portion of the population and they have every right to feel as safe as any student. Since we at the Capitol made this decision on their behalf, it is now our responsibility to work with
them to find new solutions.I know that I haven't necessarily made a lot of friends throughout this debate, but I hope we can continue this discourse respectfully and without our ideologies blinding us to the real fear, passion, and desire to build a better, freer, safer Colorado.

Best,
Rep. Singer




You're right, I am disappointed. If you truly feel that concealed
carry owners like me are likely to lash out violently in college
classes because someone disagrees, there is nothing I can do to
counter that kind of logic.
The state will take away that same right to have a say in campus life
by outlawing the OTHER group.
What's your new solution? A whistle and a "safe zone"?

[Caithford]

I sent a request to the Democrats to not vote for these bills, and a thank you letter to the Republicans. I received a nice, personal reply from Sen. Brophy. See below.

Thanks for taking the time to write. I hope that at least a few of the Democrats will vote against these bills. I want you to remember who has pushed these bills; do not vote for a Democrat in


Colorado again. Even if one votes against any of these bills, they still support the leaders who are pushing these infringements.






You can count on me to do everything possible to defeat any and all gun control measures.



Greg B.
Spelling errors are Apple's fault, I own the grammar.

On Feb 19, 2013, at 9:15 PM, wrote:




Dear Senator,


I would like to personally thank you for your support of our Second Amendment rights to keep and bear arms. Thank you for working to defeat these bills. I truly appreciate your stance on this matter, and will remember in the future.


Very Respectfully,


Me

[TFOGGER]

My letter:



Responses:

Hard Statistics from Texas : CCW holders are as a group 13 times less likely to commit ANY misdemeanor or felony crime, and over 20 times less likely to commit a violent crime.


The number of permits revocations is typically small.[5] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concealed_carry_in_the_United_States#cite_note-licgweb.doacs.state.fl.us-5)[9] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concealed_carry_in_the_United_States#cite_note-9)[10] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concealed_carry_in_the_United_States#cite_note-10) The grounds for revocation in most states, other than expiration of a time-limited permit without renewal, is typically the commission of a gross misdemeanor or felony by the permit holder. While these crimes are often firearm-related (including unlawful carry), a 3-year study of Texas crime statistics immediately following passage of CHL legislation found that the most common crime committed by CHL holders that would be grounds for revocation was actually DUI (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DUI), followed by unlawful carry and then aggravated assault. The same study concluded that Texas CHL holders were always less likely to commit any particular type of crime than the general population, and overall were 13 times less likely to commit any crime.[11] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concealed_carry_in_the_United_States#cite_note-11)

These are the types of statistics that can help refute the irrational fears that are driving the Democrats. Singer is an idiot, parroting the garbage the party is feeding to the House and Senate.

[firecrackerktm]

Thank you for writing to me on an issue of such importance to Colorado.

I agree that we must do everything possible to protect our second amendment rights. In light of recent tragedies in our own state as well as Connecticut, it is understandable that gun control has taken such precedence in our national dialogue. However, restricting access to firearms and ammunition from law-abiding citizens will not make our streets safer. My colleagues and I will do everything in our power to protect your constitutional right to bear arms for the purposes of recreation and the protection of your family.

I voted against four of the gun control bills proposed by the Democrats, but House Republicans were out numbered and the bills passed. These bills now move to the Senate. To follow House Bills 1224, 1226, 1228, and 1229 visit www.leg.state.co.us (http://www.leg.state.co.us/)

Thank you again for sharing your concerns. Please keep in touch with me regarding issues that are important to you and our state.

Sincerely,


House Minority Leader Mark Waller



Thank you for contacting me regarding your opposition to the gun
control bills passed by the Democrat majority in the Colorado House of
Representatives. I appreciate hearing from you on this important
matter.

The measures passed by House Democrats do nothing to enhance public
safety and place severe constraints on law abiding gun owners. They
also endanger jobs in this state. I adamantly opposed these measures
and voted against them when they came to a vote in the House. I will
continue to oppose any other misguided attempts to limit our Second
Amendment rights.

Should you have any additional questions or comments, please never
hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Dan Nordberg
Colorado State House of Representatives District 14


I have voted no on the four gun laws in the General Assembly. I will be supporting your 2nd Amendment rights and working hard to oppose any legislation that violates your liberties and rights.

Thanks for your email and please stay involved in this important public policy process.


Blessings,


TIM DORE

[Birddog1911]

This is what Sen. Aguilar, or should I say one of her aides, wrote to me today:

First and foremost I want to assure you that NONE of the bills will result in restriction of the constitutionally guaranteed right to bear arms. These bills have not yet been referred to the Senate. When they do come to the Senate, I will look at all sides before I make any decisions.


Please feel free to contact me again with any further concerns.


Sincerely,

Senator Irene Aguilar, MD


And this was my response:


Honestly, Senator, I cannot believe that you, or one of your aides, managed to write that with a straight face. What is it about "shall not be infringed" do you not understand? How can you possibly tell me that by criminalizing the act of transfering a firearm to my own brother does not restrict my rights?

How can you tell me that by restricting the amount of rounds that I am allowed to have in a magazine is not restricting my rights? As anyone with an ounce of common sense can tell you, violent home invasions are on the rise, and criminals are resorting to multiple assailants entering during a home invasion. But you're going to try and tell me that I can only have a 15 round magazine, while those same criminals do not give a damn about your ridiculous law. How is it that you so easily cannot see the fact that criminals do not obey laws, by their very nature, or is it that you have so much contempt for law abiding citizens that you willingly ignore facts and logic?

Be forewarned, Senator, that the law abiding citizens of Colorado are watching, and we will take measure of who votes for these horrendous laws, and those who choose to vote for them will reap what they sow. They will be recalled, they will be voted out of office, and they will understand that We The People are sick of being ignored!

Birddog1911
Citizen, Peyton, Colorado

[sniper7]

Response from Mary Hodge:




Thank you for taking the time to reach out to me regarding your concerns around gun violence legislation. I believe there is a way to honor the 2 nd Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens and do a better job of keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous criminals. In seeking to reduce the gun violence that has troubled our communities in recent months, I also firmly believe that we must explore all of the issues that contribute to such violent incidents. This includes examining our state’s mental healthcare system, ensuring law enforcement has the tools necessary to protect our communities, and reflecting on the values of our society’s culture.

The House has passed a comprehensive package of legislation to prevent dangerous people from buying firearms, restrict sales of some weapons accessories, and bolster Colorado’s mental health system. The gun safety plan strikes a balance between securing our neighborhoods and protecting the right to bear arms.

·The Firearm Background Check Modernization Act, HB13-1229, will require background checks for all gun buyers, regardless of how they acquire their guns.The bill also includes provisions to enhance the real-time sharing of mental health data between state and federal agencies; and a provision to allow individuals denied access to firearms to appeal those denials.

·The High-Capacity Magazine Ban, HB13-1224, will ban the sale or transfer of all ammunition feeding devices capable of accepting more than 15 rounds. Large-capacity magazines were used in the Aurora, Sandy Hook, Tucson, Virginia Tech, and Fort Hood massacres, and a recent poll found that 61% of Colorado voters support a ban on those magazines.

·HB13-1226, which prohibits concealed carry of a weapon on a college campus, puts us in line with 21 other states that do the same. Another 23 states allow colleges to prohibit concealed carry themselves, a policy Colorado had until very recently.

·HB13-1228 will help reduce the backlog in the CBI InstaCheck program and return us to the policy we had in the 1990s of requiring people who want to buy firearms to pay for the expense of the InstaCheck, just as teachers, real estate brokers, attorneys and doctors do currently.

All 4 bills have passed the Colorado House. Changes were made to HB13-1224, increasing the magazine capacity allowed to 15 rounds. The bill, as it stands, will not prohibit the manufacture of high-capacity magazines, such as those at made by Magpul Industries. Thanks again for contacting me and sharing your input. If you have any further concerns, please feel free to contact my office.

Sincerely,

Senator Mary Hodge

Senate District 25 State Capitol Legislative Services Building 200 E Colfax Ave Denver, CO 80203 303-866-4855 senmaryhodge@gmail.com www.maryhodge.com

If you would like more information, sign up for my email newsletter HODGE PODGE at www.maryhodge.com.

[sniper7]

Response from Linda Newell


Thank you for taking the time to reach out about possible gun safety legislation and community violence prevention. Your input helps so much in our legislative process.

It is clear that we need to have an ongoing public conversation about gun safety, mental health, and prevention of violence. I will review the specifics of proposed legislation and weigh all the options. As of right now, no bills related to gun safety have come before me. When this time comes, I will keep your thoughts in mind.

Together, we need to find reasonable solutions that protect the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens, while keeping guns out of the hands of potentially dangerous people and finding a more comprehensive approach to dealing with all factors that could contribute to violence, including mental illness and managing conflict. And most importantly, I believe we need to continue to practice treating each other with kindness, compassion, tolerance and civility.

Thank you again for your input.

Sincerely,

Linda Newell State Senator, District 26

[Birddog1911]

So in other words, Hodge and Newell have already made up their minds, and are telling us to go fuck ourselves.

[brutal]

Response from Mary Hodge:



·The Firearm Background Check Modernization Act, HB13-1229, will require background checks for all gun buyers, regardless of how they acquire their guns.The bill also includes provisions to enhance the real-time sharing of mental health data between state and federal agencies; and a provision to allow individuals denied access to firearms to appeal those denials.

There is already a provision in the NICS system and the states ARE NOT SUBMITTING ENOUGH DATA!


·The High-Capacity Magazine Ban, HB13-1224, will ban the sale or transfer of all ammunition feeding devices capable of accepting more than 15 rounds. Large-capacity magazines were used in the Aurora, Sandy Hook, Tucson, Virginia Tech, and Fort Hood massacres, and a recent poll found that 61% of Colorado voters support a ban on those magazines.

What poll? Denver Post? Fucking rag. The paper too.



·HB13-1228 will help reduce the backlog in the CBI InstaCheck program and return us to the policy we had in the 1990s of requiring people who want to buy firearms to pay for the expense of the InstaCheck, just as teachers, real estate brokers, attorneys and doctors do currently.

Teaching, selling houses, and ambulance chasing are not guaranteed protection by the Bill of rights.


All 4 bills have passed the Colorado House. Changes were made to HB13-1224, increasing the magazine capacity allowed to 15 rounds. The bill, as it stands, will not prohibit the manufacture of high-capacity magazines, such as those at made by Magpul Industries. Thanks again for contacting me and sharing your input. If you have any further concerns, please feel free to contact my office.

Sincerely,

Senator Mary Hodge


They still don't understand the MagPul WILL LEAVE and take jobs and tax revenue?

[sniper7]

I responded to her letting her know if a kind way that magpul makes 20 and 30 round magazines and will be forced to leave unless at a minimum amendments are changed to allow at least 30 round mags and if they don't most likely they will face not only lost tax revenue and a loss of jobs but up to a supreme court ruling which will cost the state even more tax dollars defending this potential law. I also alerted her that they need to up the shotgun magazine limit to a minimum of 20 rounds as I use a saiga during snow goose which has no limit and no mag limit to thin the massive amount of snow geese out. Cdow reports there are still way too many snow geese in population and it needs to be controlled.

[VDW]

In case you had any doubts about her:
"Thank you for contacting me with your concerns regarding the recently introduced firearm safety bills here at the State Legislature.


Our nation has a rich history of responsible gun ownership and we guarantee extensive rights for gun owners. None of Colorado's proposed legislation would remove the right of responsible citizens to bear arms.


I recognize and support the rights of law abiding citizens to own guns. None of the proposals before the legislature would violate the 2nd Amendment as interpreted by the Supreme Court.


Thank you again for contacting me with your concerns.


Sincerely,


Senator Irene Aguilar, MD
Chair, Senate Health and Human Services Committee"


The Office of Senator Irene Aguilar, M.D.

[VDW]

My response:

Sen. Aguilar,

Your response is crystal clear to me. Thanks for clarifying that you have no respect for the 2nd Ammendment. These bills most certainly do infringe on the 2nd Ammendment. The Supreme Court ruled citizens have a right to bear arms for self-defense. Can you guarantee no one will ever be attacked by more than 1 attacker and/or the attackers won't be wearing body armor? Can you guarantee a citizen won't miss when confronted with a lethal threat? Can you guarantee an attacker will stop after being hit by 1, 2, or more bullets?

"Responsible" restrictions on any right guaranteed in the Constitution doesn't only apply to the 2nd Ammendment. Do you support "responsible" voting restrictions? Are you in favor of only voting for 10 politicians, background checks to vote, or voter registration "fees"? How about mandatory sentencing for child molesters?

[Dave_L]

From Irene:

"First and foremost I want to assure you that NONE of the bills will result in restriction of the constitutionally guaranteed right to bear arms. These bills have not yet been referred to the Senate. When they do come to the Senate, I will look at all sides before I make any decisions. "

I kindly replied to her with this:

"I'm sorry, but I think you misspelled "all". You spelled it "none".

[losttrail]

A bit late but here's the response I just received from Jared Wright. I wish we had more politicians capable of this type of thinking:

Hello everyone,
Thank you for writing to me about firearms legislation. This week I received over 4,000 emails about the bills introduced February 8. While I would like to write each of you individually, the mere volume of emails I received (and am still receiving!) prevents me from doing this. But please know that I have read your concerns, and I am excited to see so many of you involved in the political process.
Most of you wrote to me in opposition to the universal background check for firearms transfers and the limit on ammunition magazine size. Some of you that receive this email wrote in favor of these bills, but the vast majority did not support these pieces of legislation. Either way, let me explain how I feel about these bills, and why I voted NO against all of them.
I believe that one of the government’s few jobs is to provide safety for all its citizens. This is why we have the police force, fire department, and men and women of our armed forces. Protecting innocent human lives is important. As a former law enforcement official, I experienced first hand the danger that guns can present when in the wrong hands. Criminals have used guns against me, and solely by the grace of God am I here to help craft laws to increase our safety. Guns in the hands of those who wish to do evil can have disastrous consequences on our society, but they also provide safety to those who need to defend themselves when law enforcement cannot help. In all too many situations, the police department cannot get to the scene of a crime before it is tragically too late. Because of this, I believe the government should ensure that citizens have an simple process to acquire weapons for self-protection. Our Nation's Founding Fathers understood this. They knew we have a fundamental need to protect ourselves from two groups — the first group is evil-doers who wish to harm our families. The second group is, in fact, an out of control tyrannical government, just like the one our Founder's fought so valiantly against to give us all freedom and liberty.
House Bill 13-1229, which would require universal background checks on firearms transfers, severely extends the amount of time a person can purchase a gun privately. Now, I understand the opposition’s argument. A criminal can purchase a gun from a law-abiding citizen and commit more crimes. The opposition claims that a universal background check would prevent this. I disagree. Criminals will still avoid the law (by nature of being a criminal) and get access to firearms without a background check. While the drafters of this bill may have good intentions, I think this bill will ultimately harm law abiding citizens and make purchasing a gun for protection more onerous.
House Bill 13-1224 would limit the size of ammunition magazines. I also voted “NO” on this bill. While, again, I believe the sponsors of this bill had good intentions to protect the safety of our citizens, this legislation is misguided at best. Banning large capacity magazines will actually not increase public safety. In fact, it will make us all LESS safe. A practiced criminal can unload a magazine and load a new one in a matter of seconds. For a trained criminal, this bill will not slow the rate of shooting or decrease the devastation caused, but this legislation will make people less able to protect themselves against intruders and assailants against themselves and their families and loved ones - and that is wrong.
The recent tragic shootings are cause for intense concern, no doubt. But rather than legislating to slow the purchase of guns, I believe that allowing our citizens to easily obtain guns for self-protection and the protection of our most valuable asset — our children — is a much better idea. It is also an idea that our Founding Fathers would adhere to as they indicated in the Second Amendment, rights which have recently been upheld and sustained by our United States Supreme Court in District of Columbia v. Heller. I swore an oath to protect and defend our US Constitution and our Colorado Constitution. If I voted any other way but NO on these gun control bills, I would be violating that oath.
For those of you that wrote to me in favor of these bills, I appreciate your input. However, I believe these bills do more harm than good. The public safety of our State and Nation is a discussion we must continue to have and a topic we must act on with certainty. Our action should be focused on the evil-doers, not on just one of the tools they choose to use against us. I hope to continue to offer solutions in the form of better mental health care standards in our state, stricter penalties for violent criminals and better law enforcement response times and stationing in our schools.
Thank you again for writing me. If I can be of any assistance in the future, please do not hesitate to contact my office.
Sincerely,
Jared

[ferrum]

In case you had any doubts about her:
"Thank you for contacting me with your concerns regarding the recently introduced firearm safety bills here at the State Legislature.
Our nation has a rich history of responsible gun ownership and we guarantee extensive rights for gun owners. None of Colorado's proposed legislation would remove the right of responsible citizens to bear arms.


I recognize and support the rights of law abiding citizens to own guns. None of the proposals before the legislature would violate the 2nd Amendment as interpreted by the Supreme Court.


Thank you again for contacting me with your concerns.


Sincerely,


Senator Irene Aguilar, MD
Chair, Senate Health and Human Services Committee"


The Office of Senator Irene Aguilar, M.D.

I got the same steaming pile of shit in my inbox.

[Dave_L]

I got the same response from Jared. 4,000 emails in one week! Keep it up, everyone!!

[ghettoblaster]

Have not heard a thing from any of then with my numerous emails. I think meeting in person is the way to go.

They can walk lock step all the way to the recall vote for all I care. They are ensuring their own demise, politically speaking. If they won't listen to reason, they will listen to an election. Then forced retirement.

[ringhilt]

Response today from my state congress critter, Johnathan Singer.



First of all, I want to thank all of you who over the last few weeks took your time to write to me regarding your concerns surrounding gun legislation at the State House. I have never met so many passionate people with such differing views. I spent time with competitive shooting instructors, students for and against concealed carry on campus, gun control advocates, educators, and law enforcement experts.

Before all was said and done, I went to the Longmont Police Department Shooting Range, used firearms for the first time (including the AR-15), and co-hosted a bi-partisan debate on gun laws with former Sen. Ken Gordon, Weld County DA Ken Buck, Dr. John Lott, and John Head. I sat down with constituents who had never even thought of contacting their elected official before and received literally thousands of emails and hundreds of phone calls. My part time staff and I are still dealing with the backlog, and it’s why I’m responding later than I normally would.

Here’s the breakdown of my votes. I didn’t come to any of these decisions quickly or easily. I know I caused a lot of consternation for wanting to examine all of the angles before casting my vote Monday. I’d rather make a tough informed decision than a knee-jerk ignorant vote.

House Bill 1229 - Requiring background checks for private sellers: YES
I voted yes on this bill based on the fact that Colorado’s comprehensive background checks have done a good job so far of stopping criminals from buying guns. When I met with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) recently they told me thatlast year alone, the CBI check resulted in the arrest of over 200 fugitives trying to illegally buy guns. Closing the private seller loophole better protects our citizens and gives sellers the peace of mind that they are selling to a law abiding citizen.

House Bill 1228 - Ending the taxpayer subsidy of CBI background checks: YES
As a former child protection, day care, and nursing home worker, either myself or my employer had to pay for my CBI background check. Last year, taxpayers subsidized gun buyers to the tune of nearly $2 million for that same background check. The average cost of a check is $12.00. This fee for service bill is fair and not financially restrictive.

House Bill 1224 - Limiting magazines to 15 Rounds: YES
Honestly this was a tough one. Some states have limited rounds to 7 per magazine, other states would allow a magazine of 100+ bullets. Originally this bill would have set the limit to 10 bullets. I believe the amendment allowing 15 bullets represents a compromise. I don’t believe that limiting magazine size will stop all crime. But in the case of mass shootings, I want to give bystanders the opportunity to get to safety and to stop the shooter (as happened in Arizona). The bill was amended to allow Colorado magazine companies such as Magpul to continue producing in the state. I hope this will save jobs, and I intend to visit their Headquarters very soon to talk to them about their concerns.

House Bill 1226 - College Campus Ban on Concealed Carry: YES
This may in fact have been the toughest vote for me. I truly believe that campus students, faculty and staff should have a say in their own campus life. The courts took that voice away when they permitted concealed carry essentially everywhere on campus.
Fear was the common thread among students I met with on this issue. Students for the bill were afraid that they could not freely disagree with their classmates without fear of violent reprisal. Students against the bill were afraid to walk home alone at night without some way to protect themselves. The outpouring of phone calls, text messages and emails from constituents and students across the state in favor of this bill put me in the YES column at the 11th Hour. We still have a responsibility to those students who fear for their well-being.
While I believe that those that would carry concealed are a minority, they are not an insignificant portion of the population and they have every right to feel as safe as any student. Since we at the Capitol made this decision on their behalf, it is now our responsibility to work with them to find new solutions.

I know that I haven't necessarily made a lot of friends throughout this debate, but I hope we can continue this discourse respectfully and without our ideologies blinding us to the real fear, passion, and desire to build a better, freer, safer Colorado.

Sincerely,

Rep. Singer

[halletts]

My Rep identified some State Democrat Senators that could be focused on...


Dear Chris,
I have been fighting the good fight for our 2nd Amendment rights in the House along with my fellow Republicans. However, the Dems have been outvoting us at every turn. The fight on the House floor is over for now, but the battle will go on. The Senate has to hear the bills and the Governor will have to sign them. Keep working on our opponents!
According to my Republican Senate colleagues, the Senators that might be persuaded by sending e-mails and letters or making calls would be: Senators Mary Hodge, Cheri Jahn, Andy Kerr, Jeanne Nicholson, Gail Schwartz, and Lois Tochtrop. Below are their email addresses, phone numbers, and Capitol address. Please contact them.
mary.hodge.senate@state.co.us Phone: 303-866-4855 (tel:303-866-4855)
cheri.jahn.senate@state.co.us Phone: 303-866-4856 (tel:303-866-4856)
andy.kerr.senate@state.co.us Phone: 303-866-4859 (tel:303-866-4859)
jeanne.nicholson.senate@state.co.us Phone: 303-866-4873 (tel:303-866-4873)
gail.swartz.senate@state.co.us Phone: 303-866-4871 (tel:303-866-4871)
lotochtrop@aol.com Phone: 303-866-4863 (tel:303-866-4863)
Address: Senator ___________
State Capitol
200 E. Colfax
Denver, CO 80203

Thank you for your input and your support.
Yours for HD 60,
Representative Jim Wilson

[BlasterBob]

cheri.jahn.senate@state.co.us Phone: 303-866-4856 (tel:303-866-4856)
andy.kerr.senate@state.co.us Phone: 303-866-4859 (tel:303-866-4859)
jeanne.nicholson.senate@state.co.us Phone: 303-866-4873 (tel:303-866-4873)
gail.swartz.senate@state.co.us Phone: 303-866-4871 (tel:303-866-4871)
lotochtrop@aol.com Phone: 303-866-4863 (tel:303-866-4863)


Just sent a very short/brief email to each of these folks asking them kindly to PERSONALLY look into ALL of the negative measures of the four bills. [blaster]

[bogie]

My first response from a democrat.


Thank you for participating in the legislative process, I value your input.


These bills have not yet been referred to the Senate. When they do come to the Senate, I will look at all sides before I make any decisions.


Please feel free to contact me again with any further concerns.


Sincerely,

Senator Irene Aguilar, MD
Click here for more information about Senator Aguilar (http://www.aguilarfor32.com/)




--
The Office of Senator Irene Aguilar, M.D.State Capitol, Room 266
303-866-4852 (tel:303-866-4852)
www.aguilarfor32.com (http://www.aguilarfor32.com)
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/images/cleardot.gif

[Dlesh123]

Thank you for participating in the legislative process, I value your input.


First and foremost I want to assure you that NONE of the bills will result in restriction of the constitutionally guaranteed right to bear arms. These bills have not yet been referred to the Senate. When they do come to the Senate, I will look at all sides before I make any decisions.


Please feel free to contact me again with any further concerns.


Sincerely,

Senator Irene Aguilar, MD
Click here for more information about Senator Aguilar (http://www.aguilarfor32.com/)



Sigh. She doesn't understand. Restricting mags is restricting the right to keep and bear arms.



Still getting similar answers from her, but at least she isn't telling me to go talk to my own rep like she did someone else.


Thank you for participating in the legislative process, I value your input.


I am in the process of reviewing these bills and the legal opinions and research around the policies they propose. I will look at all sides before I make any decisions.


Please feel free to contact me again with any further concerns.




Sincerely,


Senator Irene Aguilar
www.aguilarfor32.com

[muddywings]

From Giron:

Concerned Coloradans,

Yesterday, I chaired the State, Veterans, and Military Affairs
Committee that heard three pieces of gun safety legislation: HB 1226,
HB 1228 and HB 1229.

In anticipation of this hearing, I chose to host my first town hall of
the session on this topic, back in January. Since then, I have hosted
and/or been present at numerous other community events where the
subject of gun legislation was the primary topic. Just over a week
ago, I hosted an additional town hall dedicated to this legislation
where over 500 gun enthusiasts from throughout the state came to
educate me on their perspectives. I have accepted invitations to tour
a gun show and even picked up a gun for the first time in my life to
visit a shooting range and learn about gun sports from a women’s
recreational shooting group. I have read thousands of emails, listened
to hundreds of voicemail messages and sought out experts on all sides
of the issue to better understand this legislation and its impact on
Colorado and specifically Senate District 3.

Prior to all of this, I knew very little about gun culture. Yes, I’ve
had some negative exposure, mostly in the form of emails that were
demanding, threatening, and hateful. Thankfully, I also had plenty of
exposure to helpful folks who helped me understand that responsible
gun owners are my neighbors and just like me in their roles as
parents, community members, and public servants. I am very thankful to
families I met, for whom hunting is part of their tradition and
heritage.

Here is how I voted on Monday:

HB-1226 – This bill adds areas where a concealed carry permit holder
is not authorized to possess a concealed handgun to include buildings
used by colleges/universities, stadiums/arenas at
colleges/universities, outdoor events sponsored by
colleges/universities. (Existing areas include federally owned
facilities, public elementary, middle, and high schools, public
buildings with permanent security personnel and electronic weapons
screening).
I voted to move this legislation out of committee to the full Senate for a vote.

HB-1228 – This bill would allow a fee to be charged for performing
instant criminal background checks related to obtaining and
transfering firearms, just like when obtaining a background check for
a new job.
I voted to move this legislation out of committee and on to Appropriations.

HB-1229 – This bill expands situations in which background checks are
required prior to the transfer of a firearm.

Based on feedback from constituents in my district, I introduced an
amendment (which passed) that expanded the definition of “family” in
the exception for transfers to family members. It now includes aunts,
uncles, first cousins, nieces and nephews. It also expanded the type
of temporary transfers that can be conducted without a background
check. Gun owners can now transfer their gun to anyone who remains in
their continual presence (for purposes such as gun classes or hunting
trips) and also may loan their gun to someone for a 72 hour period, as
long as they are willing to take responsibility for any damages that
may be caused during that time.
I voted to move this bill, with the successful amendment, out of
committee and on to Appropriations.

I will be carefully reviewing the testimony from the Judiciary
Committee, which heard the other four gun safety bills yesterday,
before deciding how I will vote on them on the Senate floor.

As your State Senator, sworn to uphold the Constitution of the United
States, I would not support any reform that would ignore Colorado’s
Western heritage or unreasonably impair the 2nd Amendment rights of
our citizens. I also understand that the right to bear arms is not
unlimited, especially when our society suffers from an epidemic of gun
violence.

I am way behind on contacting all of the folks who reached out to
express views in support of or opposition to these bills. The volume
of correspondence my office received from all over the state and all
over the country on these issues has been overwhelming. My priority is
always hearing from Puebloans and I am doing my best to consider all
of your opinions before I vote. Thank you for your patience and
understanding.

-Angela

--
Office of Angela Giron
Senator to District 3
State Capitol, Office 339
303.866.4878
coloradosd3@gmail.com
http:/www.angelagiron.com (http://www.angelagiron.com/)
http://www.facebook.com/SenGiron
http://twitter.com/#!/SenGiron

Growing Jobs, Investing in Education, Protecting Pueblo

[def90]

From Giron:

Concerned Coloradans,

our society suffers from an epidemic of gun violence.

Office of Angela Giron



Though it sounds like she gave a bit of time to the other side this line is pure BS.. Our country is at a period of record low murder and violent crime levels.. I fail to see the epidemic.

[aryntha]

Hodge and Aguilar have already made up their minds. Hodge is a sponsor of some of these. So those ones, they're from an old list.

Giron might be a possibility on 1224.

Been trying to spread the words that Tochtrop, Jahn and most recently: Nancy Todd, (senatornancytodd@gmail.com) (303-866-3342) are the ones to contact.

Todd indicated on Monday that she is still UNDECIDED.

Kerr and Scwartz (email above is incorrect - gail.schwartz.senate@stateo.co.us is correct) have not responded yet either so they'd be good to contact.

Hodge is one of the sponsors, so I'm unsure of why she's even on this list.

Tochtrop, Jahn, Todd, Kerr, Schwartz.

Be civil. Not profane. Not insulting. Some are on the edge of voting no, we dont want to push them back by using too much bloviation and bravado.

[brutal]

I got that same e-mail blast. Personal my ass. Another Dem talking out of both sides of their ass. She's just trying to back-peddle for votes.

I've sent polite and professional letters, faxes, and e-mails to them all. Both brief, and extended, filled with key bullet points, factual data, and heartfelt personal thoughts and concerns for both personal and public safety.

All I get back is form letters and pacification.

How anyone could put those sniveling scared little brats "feelings" before the right to self defense of those poor rape victims is reprehensible.

Fuck em, fuck em all to hell and back.


P.S. The Navy MA the NRA conceded their time slot to was awesome.

[asmo]

I sent a very nice letter to Senator Tochtrop about how all the testimony yesterday was filled with emotion but no logic, and that the voting along party lines was saddening to see.

10 minutes later I got this response:



I'm opposed to the majority of these bills. I agree with your assessment of the situation.
Lois


I know she had already come out against some of the bills - but in my email I asked her to be the voice of reason and try to help the others in her party to understand the issues with the bills.

[Epyon]

Tried to email Schwartz but it kept getting bounced back, so I left a message on her website comments section.

[Epyon]

I sent a very nice letter to Senator Tochtrop about how all the testimony yesterday was filled with emotion but no logic, and that the voting along party lines was saddening to see.

10 minutes later I got this response:



I know she had already come out against some of the bills - but in my email I asked her to be the voice of reason and try to help the others in her party to understand the issues with the bills.

I'm glad to know Tochtrop disagrees with many of the bills, as for her bill requiring CCW training to not be online. I find that to be reasonable because hands on is better anyway, I personally don't know of other states that even have an online CCW program.

[Goodburbon]

From Giron:

Concerned Coloradans,

Blah blah blah, I'm educated now.
blah blah blah, I still voted against you.

As your State Senator, sworn to uphold the Constitution of the United
States, I would not support any reform that would ignore Colorado’s
Western heritage or unreasonably impair the 2nd Amendment rights of
our citizens. I also understand that the right to bear arms is not
unlimited, especially when our society suffers from an epidemic of gun
violence.

Blah blah blah Patronizing the ignorant masses

-Angela

--
Office of Angela Giron
Senator to District 3
State Capitol, Office 339
303.866.4878
coloradosd3@gmail.com
http:/www.angelagiron.com (http://www.angelagiron.com/)
http://www.facebook.com/SenGiron
http://twitter.com/#!/SenGiron

Growing Jobs, Investing in Education, Protecting Pueblo


But reasonably impairing the 2nd amendment rights is ok?

UN AC_FUCKING_CEPTABLE!

[asmo]

Just posted this on Giron's facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/SenGiron (https://www.facebook.com/SenGiron):)



Your constituents didn't tell you to expand the number of people on the allowed list to include first cousins- we told you to vote NO on the bills. Senator - we have watched your Facebook account and your twitter feed. We know that you have received thousands of emails, phone calls and letters from your constituents urging you to vote no on these bills -- and you ignored us, choosing to gain favor with your political party rather than represent the people that elected you. You have ignored the citizens of Pueblo. We will remember this come election time.


Lets see how long it takes to be reported to the police, DHS and the TSA.

[Fmedges]

I like how they said that the don't understand why people are so angry with them. Really?

[The Rat]

From Gail Schwartz (a D)

Thank you for taking the time to reach out to my office with your
perspective around
gun safety and/or firearms-related legislation. Your viewpoint is
critical in strengthening our democratic process and in helping me to
best represent our district.

In the wake of the recent high profile gun violence that has occurred
in Colorado and nationally, it is clear that we are engaged in a
public conversation about gun safety, violence, mental health, and
school security. Out of this conversation, has come a number of pieces
of legislation. I continue to gather my district’s important feedback.
I will also carefully evaluate the merit and impact of any new
legislation on my constituents.

I am dedicated to protecting Second Amendment rights of our
law-abiding citizens while keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous
people. A comprehensive approach is critical to dealing with factors
that could contribute to violence, such as mental illness. I have a
history of protecting Second Amendment rights in my time as a
legislator even in opposition to the rest of my caucus.

I am aware that many individuals are contacting me to ask how I will
vote on current firearms-related legislation. However, I have not yet
taken a position on each bill which makes your input especially
valuable. It is most helpful to me if you make specific comments on
each piece of legislation. I have included a list of bills below.
Please continue to follow the legislation introduced this session on
the general assembly’s website. I value your opinion and will always
consider the input of my district before casting my vote in the
Colorado State Senate.

HB13-1224 - Prohibiting Large-capacity Ammunition Magazines
HB13-1226 - No Concealed Carry at Colleges
HB13-1228 - Payment for Background Checks for Gun Transfers
HB13-1229 - Background Checks for Gun Transfers
SB13-195 - No Online Training for Concealed Handgun Permits
SB13-196 - Assault Weapon Responsibility Act
SB13-197 - No Firearms for Domestic Violence Offenders

Sincerely,
Senator Gail Schwartz


From the office of:
Gail Schwartz, Colorado State Senator
Senate District 5
office: 303-866-4871
State Capitol Building, Room 332
Denver, CO 80203

fax: 303-866-4543
www.gailschwartz.org (http://www.gailschwartz.org)

[mikedubs]

Received 30 min after thanking all 15 Rs. Too bad I live in district 28 (or District 9, as it were).

Mr. XXXXXXX, thank you for your encouraging email. Colorado lost part of its soul today.
Respectfully, David

Senator David Balmer
Colorado State Capitol
Republican, Arapahoe County
www.davidbalmer.com (http://www.davidbalmer.com)
BE AS GOOD AS YOUR DOG