Okay, I would like some input here.
First off, let me say that I don't want this to turn into a discussion about how CCW permits are unConstitutional and how we don't need permission to exercise a right. We all, on this forum, know that. But for now, only Vermont agrees with us. As for the other states, we have to take it one step at a time.
I was thinking about people with CCWs and training. I think we all agree that *government-mandated* training is a dangerous road to go down as it's open to abuse in many ways, and is just wrong. But then again, I think we also agree that anyone who decides to take on the enormous responsibility that comes with carrying a firearm should be knowledgeable and well-versed on many things, including use of the weapon(s), the laws involved with carrying and use of deadly force, how to react to and deal with dangerous situations, awareness, etc. Generally, such knowledge and awareness comes about best through training of some sort.
Now, most states with shall-issue laws on the books require some sort of mandated training, I think. Some don't, like Indiana, for one. For those states that require government-mandated training, how do we convince the powers-that-be that forced training is not the way to go, that CCW'ers would get their own? And then, how do we get the CCW'ers to go and get training and to acquire the proper knowledge? And in states that require no training, how do we encourage it as the responsible thing to do?
One idea I had is based on the fact that people generally respond to incentives. What could states offer? Maybe for proof of knowledge/training, states could offer a cut in the CCW fee? Or maybe less restrictions on where one can carry? Certificates for free range time at a public range? What else?
Please give any ideas/feedback. This concept is unrefined at the moment. I just thought of it after reading that thread concerning the road rage incident in Alabama...apparently the shooter had a permit, but obviously not enough responsibility/training to act properly. Such incidents are exactly what the antis need to combat our efforts for CCW for all law-abiding people. These incidents are tragic, but, for the most part, preventable. I think training is the key (or at least one of them!).
I hope this all makes sense. I'm thinking/typing while working, so bear with me. Also, if you feel I'm way off base, let me know!
Thanks all!
First off, let me say that I don't want this to turn into a discussion about how CCW permits are unConstitutional and how we don't need permission to exercise a right. We all, on this forum, know that. But for now, only Vermont agrees with us. As for the other states, we have to take it one step at a time.
I was thinking about people with CCWs and training. I think we all agree that *government-mandated* training is a dangerous road to go down as it's open to abuse in many ways, and is just wrong. But then again, I think we also agree that anyone who decides to take on the enormous responsibility that comes with carrying a firearm should be knowledgeable and well-versed on many things, including use of the weapon(s), the laws involved with carrying and use of deadly force, how to react to and deal with dangerous situations, awareness, etc. Generally, such knowledge and awareness comes about best through training of some sort.
Now, most states with shall-issue laws on the books require some sort of mandated training, I think. Some don't, like Indiana, for one. For those states that require government-mandated training, how do we convince the powers-that-be that forced training is not the way to go, that CCW'ers would get their own? And then, how do we get the CCW'ers to go and get training and to acquire the proper knowledge? And in states that require no training, how do we encourage it as the responsible thing to do?
One idea I had is based on the fact that people generally respond to incentives. What could states offer? Maybe for proof of knowledge/training, states could offer a cut in the CCW fee? Or maybe less restrictions on where one can carry? Certificates for free range time at a public range? What else?
Please give any ideas/feedback. This concept is unrefined at the moment. I just thought of it after reading that thread concerning the road rage incident in Alabama...apparently the shooter had a permit, but obviously not enough responsibility/training to act properly. Such incidents are exactly what the antis need to combat our efforts for CCW for all law-abiding people. These incidents are tragic, but, for the most part, preventable. I think training is the key (or at least one of them!).
I hope this all makes sense. I'm thinking/typing while working, so bear with me. Also, if you feel I'm way off base, let me know!
Thanks all!