The purpose of this blog is to pass information and garner support for a proposal I have put together. It is still in its final phase and once complete I will post the proposal here. The focus of this proposal is to add an addendum to the Lautenberg Act. This law prohibits those convicted of the misdemeanor crime of Domestic Violence (MCDV) of purchasing, possessing, or discharging a firearm for life. The goal of this proposal is NOT to repeal the law, as many attempts have failed thus far, but to seek relief for a small minority meeting eligibility guidelines.
The recidivism rate for this crime is incredible. Online resources, while possibly painting a worst-case scenario, show 50% re-arrest rates within a 12 month period after the initial conviction. They go on to show up to 80% will, in a 3 year period, commit another MCDV. A citizen can only assume that whatever solution the courts are utilizing doesn't appear to be working. I can only hazard to guess that no firearms related incidents are being committed with legally purchased firearms. The FBI-NICS database is obviously functional. This proposal retains the original intent of the law and its "tough on crime" stance. This is a plague that must be dealt with in a much improved manner and I support this!
I also know that there must be others out there like myself. If the recidivism rate is at 80%...how is it the other 20% haven't become repeat offenders? I believe it may have something to do with that elusive trait of "personal responsibility". Courts, advocates, and others tend to downplay that intangible quality. This proposal seeks to decriminalize the Lautenburg Act for a select group who wish a second chance to enjoy their Second Amendment rights. This proposal also applies to those who are interested in military enlistment. Because of this law, a potential enlistee CANNOT join our armed forces. The irony is that the Department of Defense may, at their discretion, grant felony waivers to all sorts of individuals guilty of the greater charge of a felony. There is no waiver for the MCDV. In this post-9/11 climate, this is simply unacceptable. With our servicemen and women enduring multiple overseas deployments, hostile fire, and lengthy stays far from home, the addition of these eligible candidates will reduce the burden of our brave warriors.
I have already contacted the VFW Assistant Director of their National Legislative Services to seek support. I am also preparing to contact the Directors of the American Legion and AmVets to seek their assistance. I have forwarded the link to this blog to my House Representative and two Senators. It will be a bit tricky...I live in the Peoples Socialist Union of Michigan! That is why I want you all to "own" this proposal and send it to your Representatives and Congressional leaders. One of them will be strong enough to pick up this idea and "...run with it!" I will be embedding an form letter if you wish to print, sign, and mail. Forgive me, as this is my first blog. Thanks again for visiting and for your support. Remember that one voice speaking out is often discounted as crazy...thousands of voices...that becomes a movement!
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