This week, NRA joined the Gun Owners’ Action League and filed an Amicus Brief in support of federal court action taken in response to Gov. Baker’s decision to close gun shops in Massachusetts.
Governor Baker’s administration has used the COVID-19 pandemic as a means to brazenly threaten our Second Amendment rights. On March 23rd, Gov.Baker issued COVID-19 Order. No. 13 which failed to designate gun shops as “Essential Businesses.” On March 31st, Gov. Baker issued COVID-19 Order No. 21, which designated gun shops as “Essential Businesses.” This reversal was forced by a decision from the Trump Administration – through the Department of Homeland Security – that firearm and ammunition dealers, shooting ranges, and manufacturers are part of the nation’s critical infrastructure and should not be shut down.
However, late afternoon on March 31st, after gun rights advocates praised the decision, the Baker Administration removed firearm retailers and shooting ranges, once again, from the list of essential businesses. Gov. Baker’s closure of firearm retailers effectively bans firearms sales to law-abiding Massachusetts residents.
Gov. Baker’s actions are an unacceptable deprivation of our Second Amendment rights at a time when residents are concerned for the safety of themselves, their loved ones, and their communities.
This is breaking and developing news, and as more details become available, we will update NRA members further. Please stay tuned to www.nraila.org/coronavirus.