Iowans, we’ve been let down once again by our state’s Attorney General (AG). A short time ago AG Tom Miller joined 7 other states and the District of Columbia to file an amicus curiae brief in support of New York state’s infamous SAFE Act (Secure Ammunition and Firearms Enforcement Act of 2013). What’s does “amicus curiae” mean? Literally translated the Latin phrase means “friend of the court.” These briefs are unsolicited, and intended to support one side or another in a legal challenge. Unfortunately for Iowa’s residents our Attorney General Tom Miller took it upon himself to support some of the most strict, overly regulatory gun controls laws anywhere. Miller, an eight term Democrat who’s up for reelection in November, joined AGs from California, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, and Oregon on the legal filing. Notice a trend amongst that group? That’s right, they’re home to some of the most overbearing gun control regulations in the country. It’s important to note that an amicus curiae brief (fortunately) has no bearing on Iowa law. The real cause for concern is that Miller, an elected official representing our state and its 3 million residents went out of his way to support this terrible piece of gun control legislation. One can only imagine what New York inspired gun control measures Miller would like to see here in Iowa.

What can we do?

1. Write or call Tom Miller and explain your frustration with his decision to endorse New York’s SAFE Act. Remember to be civil and respectful.

2. Oust Miller from Iowa’s Attorney General office. As mentioned earlier, Miller is up for reelection this year. Because so few people understand the role an attorney general plays, often times voters opt not to vote for an attorney general candidate while at the polls. This go around, let’s make our disdain for Miller’s gun control wishes known by sending Miller packing. On election day we here at IFC won’t forget Miller’s gun control wishes, and we’re hoping you won’t either.

3. If you haven’t already, join us! Iowa Firearms Coalition is an entirely volunteer organization. We are the very definition of grassroots. We have one purpose, protect Iowans 2nd Amendment rights. The best thing you can do is become an official member. But if you can’t do that, at least join our free email list (we excessively spam you, and we won’t sell your info). While donations are much appreciated, we’re not here to raise money, we’re here to fight and our best asset is our core group of intelligent, freedom loving Iowans. Election season will soon be upon us, and we need as many allies as possible.

What’s so bad about the SAFE Act?

New York’s SAFE Act was rushed through the New York legislature in the aftermath of the 2012 Newtown tragedy. Many facets of the SAFE Act were unknown at the time it was voted into law, and as a result many of its provisions have been deemed simply unenforceable. Many freedom loving New York residents have vowed to not comply with the new law. New York’s SAFE Act includes the following:

• Residents must register all so-called “assault weapons.” This applies to new purchases, and any existing firearms already owned by New York residents. Residents must also re-register these firearms every 5 years.
• Definition of an “assault weapon” broadened to include any firearm with one or more cosmetic feature (pistol grips, flash hiders, bayonet mounts, etc.).
• Ban on the sale of all so-called “assault weapons” within the State of New York.
• Ban on so-called “high-capacity magazines.” No firearm shall take a magazine that holds more than 7 rounds. No grandfathering of existing magazines is permitted.
• Background checks required on all ammunition sales.
• Universal background checks for all firearms sales.
• Ban on all internet firearms sales.
• Law enforcement may preemptively seize a resident’s firearms without a warrant or court order if that person is deemed mentally unstable.