Law would broaden Montanans' gun rights
Montana lawmakers are betting the words ‘Made in Montana' might be able to trigger a court showdown with the federal government, while also freeing some gun owners and dealers from background checks and licensing requirements.
Under a proposed law before the Legislature, firearms, weapons components and ammunition made in Montana and kept in Montana would be exempt from federal regulation, potentially releasing some Montanans from national gun registration and licensing laws. The legislation could also free gun purchasers in the state from background checks.
Still, the bill's proponents say the measure has much bigger prey in its sights.
“Firearms are inextricably linked to the history and culture of Montana, and I'd like to support that,” said Republican Rep. Joel Boniek, the bill's sponsor. “But I want to point out that the issue here is not about firearms. It's about state rights.”
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