HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-03-25 Letter to Karl Rhoads and Glenn Wakai HB 720, HD1 Relating to Firearms
County of Hawai‘i
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County of Hawai‘i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.
Wil Okabe
Managing Director
Harry Kim
Mayor
Barbara J. Kossow
Deputy Managing Director
March 25, 2019
Senator Karl Rhoads, Chair
Senator Glenn Wakai, Vice Chair
Committee on Judiciary
Dear Chair Rhoads, Vice Chair Wakai, and Committee Members:
RE: HB 720, HD1 Relating to Firearms
HB 720, HD1 would require that lost, stolen, or destroyed firearms be reported. While this provision
might be of limited value, since enforcement would depend upon a showing that the individual knew a firearm
was missing, it is perfectly reasonable that an obligation to report be mandated, and gun owners be aware of
the expectations that are placed upon them.
I have no doubt that some will find this too onerous a restriction on their right to bear arms, but I would
argue that it is a perfectly reasonable obligation to impose.
It appears to me that the prior committees have drawn a fair and proper balance between the rights of
gun owners and society’s interest in safety. I urge you to act favorably on HB 720, HD1.
Respectfully Submitted,
Harry Kim
MAYOR