The diarist approached me and recommended I write a diary on this topic. I suggested that the diarist write on suggested topic. They did so but wanted to remain anonymous since they aren't an RKBA member.
Enjoy the diary. -KV
Ending the drug war has long been a goal of the progressive movement, especially legalizing the use of recreational marijuana. Last year Washington State legalized marijuana along with Colorado. We rejoiced as we rightly should. However it has not been without its attendant issues, discussed and diaried numerous times before.
I was listening to the morning news on Seattle's KIRO radio station when they discussed this issue. The idea, proposed by UCLA Professor Mark Kleiman: Sign a contract with the feds saying the White House promises not to notice that we're violating federal law, and in exchange, we promise that pot grown in Washington stays in Washington.
But how does this apply to RKBA? Follow below the mating squids...
Right to Keep and Bear Arms is a DKos group of second amendment supporters who have progressive and liberal values. We don't think that being a liberal means one has to be anti-gun. Some of us are extreme in our second amendment views (no licensing, no restrictions on small arms) and some of us are more moderate (licensing, restrictions on small arms.) Moderate or extreme or somewhere in between, we hold one common belief: more gun control equals lost elections. We don't want a repeat of 1994. We are an inclusive group: if you see the Second Amendment as safeguarding our right to keep and bear arms individually, then come join us in our conversation. If you are against the right to keep and bear arms, come join our conversation. We look forward to seeing you, as long as you engage in a civil discussion.
Enter the Montana Firearms Freedom Act.
I've only lived here for a few years, but there is a strong libertarian streak here. Now that I am really paying attention- a strong progressive current as well. Democratic Senators and Governor, medical MJ...
We love our guns. In fact, Kalispell has quite the growing firearms industry. In 2009 the Montana Firearms Freedom Act was introduced and passed. Then Governor Brian Schweitzer signed it into law. Yes- the same Governor that was discussed as a potential Democratic Party senatorial candidate and possible 2016 presidential candidate.
The basic premise of the Montana Firearms Freedom Act (MFFA) is that a firearm made in Montana and stamped with "Made in Montana" on a central metallic part- would be exempt from federal firearm regulations as long as the firearm remains in the State of Montana. This applies to all firearms other than full automatic weapons and crew served weapons with a few other exceptions.
How does this tie together? Well, supporting Washington State and Colorado in allowing their recreational MJ laws is of great interest to us all. Eliminating the War on Drugs will help not only reduce the inmate population, but help reduce the disparate impact these ridiculous laws have on low income and minority populations. Additionally, as evidenced in California, crime rates dropped once marijuana was decriminalized. If we apply the same rules and logic to guns - especially the MFFA - well I can imagine the uproar that it would cause.
We make fun of the GOP when they push small federal government, except in the womb, or the bedroom, or during the marriage ceremony. Isn't pushing "states rights" when it suits us just as hypocritical?