We’ve recently been made aware of a “gun sanctuary” resolution being pushed through Minnesota county boards by a well-organized Minnesota Gun Caucus. To be a “gun sanctuary county” means its law enforcement agencies will not necessarily abide by or enforce some or all federal gun laws. Such a resolution passed in February in Itaska County to the dismay of many citizens. The general public was not notified or given opportunity to comment.
At the moment this matter is not on the Beltrami County’s agenda. However, we think it will come our way-perhaps soon. If (or before) it does, we recommend contacting your county commissioners or sending a letter to the editor at the Bemidji Pioneer. Below are some talking points.
- “Gun sanctuary” debate at the county level is a waste of tax dollars and time on things out of the county commissioners’ jurisdiction.
- The sheriff and county commissioners do not get to say which laws are unconstitutional. That is for the Minnesota courts to decide. Ottertail County (Detroit Lakes) took a reasoned approach on the issue. The board affirmed its strong support of the Second Amendment rights, but also said:
“Our practice is to issue proclamations or adopt resolutions if the topic of those actions directly relate to our budget or the provision of programs and services. We will act only on issues that directly pertain to our budget, programs and services and do not exceed our authority as a local unit of government in the State of Minnesota.”
Thanks for your attention and action on this matter.
Sincerely,
Mary, Sherry, Will, Leanne, Mary, Rose, Pat and Laura
To find your commissioner: www.co.beltrami.mn.us/Government/Commissioners
PS Of Minnesota’s 87 counties, 17 have passed this resolution so far.