Gun prohibiters don’t trust carriers

Businesses rush to bar people from carrying a state-permitted firearm on their premises. Who are these frightening folks who are being singled out? They are FBI-certified, vetted by Iowa's Department of Public Safety, cleared by their county sheriff, background-checked and fingerprinted, and have no domestic violence felony or drug convictions. They are the most law-abiding segment of the U.S. population and yet they are not trusted to do business in your establishment?

It's a matter of “safety” I hear. Can't be. All businesses permit law enforcement to enter with firearms openly displayed. Not only does law enforcement have a higher violent crime rate than carry permit holders, but their weapons handling is generally marginal. I've been carrying to defend myself since Peter sliced off Malchus' ear. I have had enough of the media, politicians and businesses treating me like I belong in Fort Madison.

Iowa Campaign for Liberty believes state law prohibits public entities from enacting local gun ordinances. State law, though, is silent on private entities. ICFL supports a free market; a business can set its own rules. If Chili's or Hy-Vee posts a “No Firearms Allowed” sign, though, all gun owners will know that they are not trusted by that company.

Ed Dolan

Coordinator,

Second Amendment Project

Iowa Campaign for Liberty

Central City