HARRISBURG – State Rep. Matt Gabler (R-Clearfield/Elk) joined the majority of his colleagues recently in supporting legislation, which prevents any of Pennsylvania’s more than 2,500 municipalities from enacting their own individual gun ordinances. House Bill 80, which passed with bipartisan support, has been sent to Gov. Tom Corbett for his signature into law.
“It is unfortunate that legislation like this is necessary, given the right to keep and bear arms that is afforded all law-abiding citizens through the United States and Pennsylvania constitutions,” Gabler said. “House Bill 80 nevertheless protects all Pennsylvanians from any elected official or government body with an anti-gun agenda.”
House Bill 80 was amended to include language from House Bill 2011, legislation which Gabler originally co-sponsored. Under the amended bill, anyone who has been adversely affected by any local firearms ordinance may file suit based on an alleged violation of the state pre-emption statute.
“Allowing one or any of Pennsylvania’s local jurisdictions to independently enact its own ordinances concerning an issue, which is already constitutionally guaranteed is not only potentially confusing, but greatly overreaching,” added Gabler. “House Bill 80 ensures statewide uniformity when it comes to firearms laws and maintains citizens’ confidence in their legal right to carry.”
Offended individuals may also seek reasonable expenses, such as attorney fees, court costs and compensation for loss of income. Questions about this or any legislative issue should be directed to Gabler’s DuBois office at 814-375-4688 or his St. Marys office at 814-781-6301.
