Gun permits surge in state (Massachusetts)

[hack89]

The number of gun permits issued in Massachusetts surged by more than 15 percent over the past two years, reversing nearly a decade of steady declines and marking a pronounced departure for a state known for its antigun sentiment.

Law enforcement officials said that, while the sharp increase in permits is unexpected, it does not portend any increase in gun violence.

“We’re concerned about criminals with guns, not law-abiding citizens,’’ said John A. Grossman, undersecretary of forensic science and technology for the state Office of Public Safety and Security. “It’s the illegal gun trafficking we’re really focused on.’’

Police chiefs and district attorneys echoed that, saying they see few crimes committed with legally licensed firearms.

http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2009/12/20/gun_permits_surge_in_state/?page=2

This is a good thing.

[taurus145]

1. The increase is good, the permits are bad

Anything that requires one to receive a permit for a firearm, accessories, or ammunition is in direct conflict with 2A. Any waiting period or inconvenience whatsoever that even temporarily impedes ownership of a firearm is an infringement of 2A rights.

[Euromutt]

2. Interesting quote from Mr. Grossman there

“We’re concerned about criminals with guns, not law-abiding citizens,’’ said John A. Grossman, undersecretary of forensic science and technology for the state Office of Public Safety and Security.

It would be nice if Mr. Grossman were to inform the state (oh all right, "commonwealth") legislature of that fact, because Massachusetts' gun laws sure as hell seem to be designed to control law-abiding citizens' access to, and ability to use firearms.

[TPaine7]

3. I found that quote interesting, too

Gun sanity is gradually spreading across the US, reaching even the unconstitutional enclaves. Gun sanity is quite pervasive now, to have any influence in Massachusetts. That's good news indeed.

The legislature will be among the last affected.

[PavePusher]

4. "The legislature will be among the last affected."

And it will probably take a strict application of "Clue-Bat-To-The-Head" via the courts...

[GreenStormCloud]

5. That is an interesting thought.

MA residents travel to other states and back. Some of them will be exposed to sane gun laws and begin to occasionally talk about in MA. The influence will have an effect in MA eventually.