Is a Rick Snyder NRA feud imminent after this week’s veto? On Thursday, Michigan’s Republican Governor
Rick Snyder angered
Wayne LaPierre, the CEO of the National Rifle Association, by killing a bill his organization backed.
Rick Snyder took the decision to veto the controversial Senate Bill 789, which included a provision that would allow people with restraining orders issued against them for domestic violence and for stalking to carry a concealed pistol.
Mr Snyder, who upset many members of his party, explained his decision in a statement that read:
“We simply can’t and won’t take the chance of exposing domestic abuse victims to additional violence or intimidation.There are certainly some reforms that can improve the way Michigan issues concealed pistol licenses and we support the rights of law-abiding firearm owners, but it’s crucial that we leave in place protections for people who already have endured challenges and abuse.”
Few days prior to taking his decision, Snyder received a letter from former House Representative
Gabby Giffords asking him to side with the victims not with gun enthusiasts. The former Arizonian Democrat congresswoman, who was shot in the head in 2011 during a town hall
event, wrote:
“For over 20 years, federal protections have been in place through the Violence Against Women Act that recognize the importance of keeping guns out of the hands of those who perpetrate domestic violence. Federal law, however, must be complemented by state laws, policies and procedures to provide complete protection to victims of abuse. If SB 789 were to be enacted, some women in Michigan would be left in danger, as the protections they have relied on would be removed. In addition, the concealed weapons permits would be valid in 39 other states through reciprocity agreements.”
Several other female victims joined Giffords to ask the governor to axe the bill.
Nicole Beverly, who found herself fighting for her life after her abuser whom she had a restraining order against pointed a gun at her, is one of those women who spoke out. Beverly said:
“As our Governor we are trusting you to work towards protecting victims of domestic violence and stalking, not to arm abusers with restraining orders.”
The NRA issued a statement slamming Rick Snyder for his action and encouraged their members to keep fighting to get the bill next time around. Wayne LaPierre also pointed out to the fact only certain accused domestic abusers with temporary restraining orders issued against them would be able to obtain guns if the law did pass.
Supporters of SB 789 added that victims filing restraining orders can simply check a box making it impossible for their harassers to purchase or possess a firearm.
The Rick Snyder NRA drama has many speculating that the business executive, who is a second-term governor might run for president in 2016. A successful Republican governor in a blue state may have some appeal on the national stage.
