By Jeffrey Folloder
Predictable Reaction in Florida
This NFATCA Report is being written as the nation is embroiled in an emotional shouting match over “doing something” about guns. Florida has enacted Draconian measures in an attempt to salve the broken hearts of mourning families and those who are calling for change. To be sure, the new Florida law is very poorly written, and the NRA immediately filed a suit on Constitutional grounds. The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) tried to casually slide a note under the door by issuing a press release on a Saturday morning. DOJ intends to issue a Notice of Proposed Rule Making (NPRM) that would outlaw so-called bump stocks. At this point, nobody really knows what that NPRM will actually say or if it will pass legal scrutiny. Other states are in the middle of doing the legislative equivalent of boiling some spaghetti and flinging it against the wall to see if it sticks.
Sadly, this process is inevitable and predictable. What is also factual is that the shouting matches that are created are nothing more than a waste of energy. Social media exacerbates this waste by providing an amplified sound reinforcement chamber. Those of us who have been through this before know that the echo chambers of this “debate” will not change a single opinion on either side. It really doesn’t matter if facts are presented. The other side does not listen or comprehend. That goes for both sides of the spectrum. Unfortunately, that leaves the law-abiding community exposed to what will ultimately be ineffective legislation and regulation that serves no purpose other than to stop the vocal few who are demanding that something be done.
The process is political. Politics is inefficient and often futile. But politics is how this is addressed. You must support those who will champion your ideals. You must vote for those who will do the same. You must vote against those who will not and you must support, with your wallet, those who can get as close to your goals as possible. There is absolutely zero chance that nothing will be done. And so, you must choose the best fit. And you must devote your energy to its most effective use. Railing against the gun-control activists on Facebook will not change a single mind. Sure, you will receive a bushel of “attaboys” from your friends who feel the same way. You’ll collect a bunch of likes, as well. Some of your more liberal friends may “snooze” you or even “unfriend” you. But you will not change their minds. Spend your coins, be it cash or energy, wisely.
There is only one coin that has value in the never-ending debate on gun control: votes. Tell your representatives that you will vote and that your vote will decide their ongoing future. Cast your ballot in every single vote that you are eligible to participate in. Every one. If those elected officials wind up doing something that betrays their promise, vote ‘em out. But do this knowing that 100% perfection will never be achieved. Because new legislation and regulation will always be around the corner. And we must make sure that it has the least impact on our inalienable rights. The NFATCA has maintained this philosophy and approach for 15 years. Our efforts have opened up more NFA opportunities for more people, more often. We are thankful for your decision to spend your coins with us.
| This article first appeared in Small Arms Review V22N6 (June 2018) |
