[Vision2020] Crabtree and the NRA

[ringoshirl]

Visionaries:

Gary Crabtree has requested a discussion from me concerning my low rating from the National Rifle Association.  It's interesting to me that Mr. Crabtree did not attend any of the forums, nor take the time to submit a question during the KRFP interview.  I am also uncomfortable with his vitriolic comments towards people with whom he disagrees politically.  After asking me to respond, he brands my answer "rhetoric" in advance.
However, he has raised an issue about which some of you may be curious, so I will give a candid response.  

I have many friends who are sportsmen, belong to the NRA, and enjoy their publications.  I think the organization provides a service that people appreciate.  I also think that, at times, their political action wing has been over the top.  

This is a powerful lobbying group in the Idaho Legislature.  Many legislators just produce the votes the NRA requests because of its powerful influence.  During my service in the Legislature, I have not always voted according to their wishes.  I have listened to constituents who have contacted me.  I have contacted attorneys to determine whether the legislation was deemed necessary by them.  After weighing all information, I vote according to what seems most responsible, and I never take this lightly.

Gun safety is very important to me.  In the most recent session, the majority passed legislation stipulating that firearms manufactured exclusively in Idaho would be exempt from federal regulations.  I think that is dangerous and irresponsible.  Our Attorney General said it was likely unconstitutional.  My vote was one of the few against that legislation.

During my five terms in the legislature, I have not introduced legislation that would threaten anybody's second amendment rights.  I have none planned.  Nobody enjoys a low rating from a political action group, and we should always listen to all sides of an issue before voting.  But our legislative decision-making should not be driven by a desire for high ratings. 

Shirley Ringo
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