LOCAL EATERIES IN A QUANDRY OVER GUN LAWS
As most may not be aware, as of Tuesday, July 14, 2009 Anyone with a legally issued Tennessee handgun carry permit may carry their concealed handgun into a restaurant that serves alcohol, as long as they are not drinking. This new law seems to have some local shopkeepers nervous. They are anxious enough that they are posting signs telling law-abiding citizens that their policy is, basically “We are not interested in the safety or well being of our employees or customers” Certainly the outcry from these businesses will be
“Oh, No, just the opposite” But that policy, while well-meaning, may have some un-intended consequences. The handgun carry permit system was put in place so that good, honest, citizens, could apply for a permit, and, once qualified by passing a background check, a safety course that not only teaches safe handling, and the laws regarding carrying a weapon, but requires that you prove your proficiency in handling the firearm before that permit is issued. Why would someone want to carry a gun? The simple answer is, because a police officer is too heavy to carry. Those who go through this rigorous process realize that the responsibility for the safety and security of our family, and, ourselves, is our own, and when bad things happen, you usually will have only seconds to react in a way that can save yours, or someone else’s life. I saw a response in the newspaper about how some shopkeeper was concerned with the liability issues. I respond by saying that you, yourself are creating a liability issue by banning legally carried firearms in your establishment. When you place a sign on your door saying that legally carried concealed firearms are not welcome, then I must give up my right to defend myself if I enter your establishment. Who is responsible for my safety while I am in your business? Technically now, you are. Another unintended consequence of your sign is that you have just assured a criminal that there are no firearms in your establishment, your customers and staff, are unarmed, and are therefore “fair game”.
If I were a criminal which establishment do you think I would want to target, the eatery where law abiding citizens and their families may be armed? Or the one with a sign that tells me nobody is armed. ? Some have argued that this new law will hurt your business, I will agree. Those businesses that will not allow me to exercise my lawful right to self defense will certainly not see my money. I will not give up my rights for a meal that I can enjoy at an establishment that recognizes the rights of paying customers.
