MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE
2004 Regular Session
To: Rules
By: Representative Lott, Akins, Chism, Fillingane, Hamilton (6th), Mayhall, Moore, Rogers (14th)
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI TO END THE ABUSE OF TORT LAW AGAINST THE FIREARMS INDUSTRY.
WHEREAS, citizens have a right, protected by the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution, to keep and bear arms; and
WHEREAS, lawsuits have been commenced against manufacturers, distributors, dealers and importers of firearms that operate as designed and intended, which seek money damages and other relief for the harm caused by the misuse of firearms by third parties, including criminals; and
WHEREAS, the manufacture, importation, possession, sale and use of firearms and ammunition in the United States are heavily regulated by federal, state and local laws, including the Gun Control Act of 1968, the National Firearms Act and the Arms Export Control Act; and
WHEREAS, businesses in the United States that are engaged in interstate and foreign commerce through the lawful design, manufacturing, marketing, distribution, importation or sale to the public of firearms or ammunition that has been shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce are not, and should not be, liable for the harm caused by those who criminally or unlawfully misuse firearm products or ammunition products that function as designed and intended; and
WHEREAS, thirty-three states have passed legislation protecting firearms and ammunition manufacturers, House Resolution No. 1036 passed the United States House in an overwhelming bipartisan vote of 285 to 140, and Senate Bill No. 659 has 55 cosponsors in the United States Senate:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That the House of Representatives requests our elected representatives and senators in the United States Congress to end the abuse of tort laws against the firearms industry.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Mississippi's Congressional Delegation and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.