I have 2 in on hand These are great shooting muzzle loaders that will last you a lifetime with proper care. 1:60 twist 32" barrel shipping included to the lower 48.
Lyman Great Plains Flintlock 54 cal NIB - Black Powder Rifles
Thanks for looking
Regards BlackPowderBill
FFL 35+ years Veteran owned
Monday, December 17, 2018
Sunday, November 25, 2018
Saturday, November 24, 2018
Muzzle Loaders For Sale 54 percussion & 45 Flintlock NOT KITS circa 1975
$1,500.00 for the pair, will separate. Price is firm as parts today will cost you more. Owner now in possession of these. I can retrieve if you're purchasing them. Thanks for looking BPB
Have a older fella from the local Veterans groups. He now has Parkinson's. He use to do vous and made a few smoke poles in his day. He and his wife stopped doing vous when his cargo trailer was stolen 18 years ago.
He made these 2 out of the same tree . Lots of curl___
Maple from Vermont in 1975.
circa 1975 as the inlay in the top flat indicates C. Fair Darke Co. Ohio
Hawken style half stock pewter for end tip.
Rifle had a 34" Douglas 8 grove barrel Twist comes out at 16.5" so 1-66ish
Bore it great condition
Barrel sports a squared off drum with nipple.
LOP 13".5 +-
DBL SET TRIGGERS
REAR SIGHT IRON OPEN
PATCH BOX ? HEAVY LID POSSIBLY PEWTER
AT THE MUZZLE IS 2 WIRE BANDS
Lock is by RUSS HAMM - I put about 4 hours work into cleaning it up to make it function again.
You have to set the trigger for the lock to hold.
Ram rod is proud of the muzzle by 1"
It hits the froward trigger guard screw. I found a Phillips screw in the guard and pulled it. Stuck a piece of wood with glue to replace the hole. Then set a new screw in.
Over all the rifle had a few bumps and bruises from handling. The owner shot it regularly.
The pistol 45 cal flint lock by RUSS HAMM
Forward trigger guard is loose needs repair, ??new pin
Cleaned the lock up.
Bore in great condition
Brass trim
bbl 10"
OAL 15"
He'd like to get $1,500.00 for the pair and will separate.. You can send me a PM ,call or email directly.
Thanks for looking Pictures posted here www.blackpowderbill.com file to large for this forum
He made these 2 out of the same tree . Lots of curl___
Maple from Vermont in 1975.
circa 1975 as the inlay in the top flat indicates C. Fair Darke Co. Ohio
Hawken style half stock pewter for end tip.
Rifle had a 34" Douglas 8 grove barrel Twist comes out at 16.5" so 1-66ish
Bore it great condition
Barrel sports a squared off drum with nipple.
LOP 13".5 +-
DBL SET TRIGGERS
REAR SIGHT IRON OPEN
PATCH BOX ? HEAVY LID POSSIBLY PEWTER
AT THE MUZZLE IS 2 WIRE BANDS
Lock is by RUSS HAMM - I put about 4 hours work into cleaning it up to make it function again.
You have to set the trigger for the lock to hold.
Ram rod is proud of the muzzle by 1"
It hits the froward trigger guard screw. I found a Phillips screw in the guard and pulled it. Stuck a piece of wood with glue to replace the hole. Then set a new screw in.
Over all the rifle had a few bumps and bruises from handling. The owner shot it regularly.
The pistol 45 cal flint lock by RUSS HAMM
Forward trigger guard is loose needs repair, ??new pin
Cleaned the lock up.
Bore in great condition
Brass trim
bbl 10"
OAL 15"
He'd like to get $1,500.00 for the pair and will separate.. You can send me a PM ,call or email directly.
Thanks for looking Pictures posted here www.blackpowderbill.com file to large for this forum
Thursday, November 22, 2018
Sunday, November 18, 2018
Monday, November 12, 2018
Wednesday, November 7, 2018
Tuesday, October 9, 2018
NICS FBI Firearms Enhancements for 4473 Information
Good Afternoon,
Due to an unforeseen issue these enhancements will now be deployed on October 16, 2018. These changes will be implemented across all methods of background check submissions, both NICS E-Check and the NICS Contracted Call Center. Please note the slight change in verbiage for acknowledging the review of the ATF form 4473.
These modifications are to better assist in the background check process. The NICS is a name-based system. When a NICS background check is performed, a match/no match decision has to be made based upon the information available to the system. The more information available for consideration in making a match/no match determination, the more accurate determination can be. It is extremely important that the FFL check the government issued photo Identification provided by the purchaser to ensure that information matches the information supplied by the purchaser on the ATF Form 4473 and that the information is input into the background check with the same accuracy.
· Require the capture of customers full Middle Name
o NICS E-Check users must use “IO” or “NMN” when applicable (example X”IO” for initial only or “NMN” for no middle name)
· Require the capture of a Valid Identification Number in the Miscellaneous Number(s) Field, i.e. Driver’s License Number
o For all Non-US Citizens you will be required to enter both the I94 or AR/USCIS number and a Valid Government Issued Identification Number
· Require the submitting user to attest they have reviewed the ATF Form 4473
o “Do the name, date of birth, and place of residence in Section A on the ATF Form 4473 exactly match the valid government-issued photo identification (to include supplemental) document(s) provided to you AND do questions 11b through 11i and 12b and 12c have a “No” response?”
· NICS E-Check users will now be required to re-enter the customers First, Middle, and Last Name on the verification page before clicking submit
We apologize for the sudden change of deployment date and appreciate your patience and understanding in this matter.
Thank you,
The NICS Business Relations Team
Buckskin bag 65$ shipped
Strap is attached you have to adjust & lace to your length.
Due to an unforeseen issue these enhancements will now be deployed on October 16, 2018. These changes will be implemented across all methods of background check submissions, both NICS E-Check and the NICS Contracted Call Center. Please note the slight change in verbiage for acknowledging the review of the ATF form 4473.
These modifications are to better assist in the background check process. The NICS is a name-based system. When a NICS background check is performed, a match/no match decision has to be made based upon the information available to the system. The more information available for consideration in making a match/no match determination, the more accurate determination can be. It is extremely important that the FFL check the government issued photo Identification provided by the purchaser to ensure that information matches the information supplied by the purchaser on the ATF Form 4473 and that the information is input into the background check with the same accuracy.
· Require the capture of customers full Middle Name
o NICS E-Check users must use “IO” or “NMN” when applicable (example X”IO” for initial only or “NMN” for no middle name)
· Require the capture of a Valid Identification Number in the Miscellaneous Number(s) Field, i.e. Driver’s License Number
o For all Non-US Citizens you will be required to enter both the I94 or AR/USCIS number and a Valid Government Issued Identification Number
· Require the submitting user to attest they have reviewed the ATF Form 4473
o “Do the name, date of birth, and place of residence in Section A on the ATF Form 4473 exactly match the valid government-issued photo identification (to include supplemental) document(s) provided to you AND do questions 11b through 11i and 12b and 12c have a “No” response?”
· NICS E-Check users will now be required to re-enter the customers First, Middle, and Last Name on the verification page before clicking submit
We apologize for the sudden change of deployment date and appreciate your patience and understanding in this matter.
Thank you,
The NICS Business Relations Team
Buckskin bag 65$ shipped
Strap is attached you have to adjust & lace to your length.
Payment accepted :PayPal, USPO Money order ,Bank Check
Thanks for looking
REGARDS
BPB Licensed FFL 30+ YEARS
Veteran owned DBA Registered Business
Monday, September 24, 2018
NEW MEXICO GAME COMMISSION WINS LION TRAPPING LAWSUIT!
GAME COMMISSION WINS LION TRAPPING LAWSUIT!
Article from the New Mexico Tracker news letter July 2018
In yet another victory for trapping, the federal lawsuit filed against the New Mexico State Game Commission was decided on July 16, 2018 by Chief US District Court Judge William Johnson. The lawsuit has been ongoing since 2016 and was filed in an attempt to stop cougar trapping in NM.
The decision was what is called a “summary judgement” meaning the judge ruled on the merits of the arguments without the case having to go to a full trial. Both NMDGF and the Humane Society of the U.S. (HSUS) had filed separate motions asking for summary judgement in their favor. HSUS was trying to have the trapping portion of the cougar rule “stayed” which basically means they wanted it declared void in order to make lion trapping illegal again because, they said, the new cougar rule “threatens Mexican wolves”. In the 38 page written decision Judge Johnson explained that after reviewing “voluminous amounts of material as evidence”, numerous written statements from relevant witnesses and current case law (previous court decisions) there was no evidence that Mexican wolves are threatened due to trapping, especially cougar trapping in NM.
He granted summary judgement in favor of the commission, allowing the current cougar regulation to stay in effect. In the lawsuit, HSUS claimed that by allowing the trapping of cougar as a legal method of harvest the state game commission was violating the endangered species act since Mexican wolves might be caught in traps set for cougar. In making their arguments they misread, misinterpreted and misrepresented NM state trapping laws in their frivolous case. In one example HSUS witnesses told the court in written statements that there was no jaw spread restriction on un-laminated traps and because of this trappers could use huge traps to capture cougar. In the decision the Judge writes that he questioned HSUS on this “because it just did not make sense to prohibit the use of smaller laminated traps while allowing larger nonlaminated ones”. NMDGF’s Colonel of law enforcement made it clear that not only was this false but officers have consistently enforced the jaw spread regulation for nearly 2 decades and the cougar rule did not change this. Continued on page 2 Who is the NMTA? We are trappers from around the nation who have come together as a group to provide education and training for all trappers to practice "Wise Use" of our renewable fur resources.
Page 2 NMTA TRACKER Commission wins lion lawsuit cont. In the end Judge Johnson saw it for what it was, a ridiculous interpretation of the law. Attorneys for the commission presented evidence which demonstrated that traps, no larger than those allowed for other fur bearing animals, which are set for cougar, present no danger of a “take” of Mexican Gray Wolves. It will come as no surprise to those reading this that most of the HSUS arguments were full of inconsistencies, contradictions and lies. Thankfully the judge recognized this and pointed many of these out in his written decision.
The HSUS’s attorneys were ultimately forced to admit that despite 2 years of legal cougar trapping, no wolves had been caught in a trap set for lions, much less injured. In addition the judge pointed out that NMDGF has conducted cougar control using traps and foot snares in several bighorn sheep areas within occupied wolf habitat for 15+ years and NMDGF provided detailed records of over 60,000 trap nights (1 trap, set for 1 night = 1 trap night) in which they NEVER caught a wolf in a trap set for a cougar. Not once. Of course this is no surprise to those of us who trap since we know that wolves and lions don’t use the country side the same way, after all that’s why you don’t make a coyote set in the same place you make a bobcat set! NMDGF attorneys apparently made this point quite effectively since Judge Johnson noted it as an important factor in his decision: “Defendants (NM Game Commission) offer persuasive evidence that despite the habitat overlap, an understanding of habitat use can help eliminate the likelihood that Mexican wolves would be caught in non-target traps and snares. Species behave differently: Differences in behavioral characteristics between cougars and wolves (and how these animals use the landscape differently) make it unlikely that a trap set for cougar would catch a wolf.”
A loss in this case could have had significant impacts on the trapping of all furbearers since the only thing the commission legalized in the new cougar regulation was the harvest of cougars if the trapper had: 1) a cougar license, 2) a trapping license, 3) they trapped on state land or private land and 4) they caught a cougar in a trap which complied with all other current trapping laws. Larger traps were not allowed and all other laws already on the books which applied to trapping furbearers apply to cougar trappers. If the judge had ruled against the commission there likely would have been additional lawsuits against furbearer trapping since the size of traps might have been an issue. This decision reaffirms the state’s ability to manage wildlife and the methods those animals may be harvested by licensed hunters, anglers and trappers so long as the state game commission considers due care when an action may affect a species protected under the ESA.
The New Mexico State Game Commission should be commended for fighting this lawsuit rather than giving up and settling with the HSUS. Please let them know you appreciate their support for trapping and wildlife management based on science not emotion.
A complete copy of the 38 page written decision along with copies of all of the other court documents can be found at:
https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/5708021/humane-society-of-the-united-states-v-kienzle/
Or you can simply do an internet search using the case name or docket number: Case name: Humane Society of the United States v. Kienzle Docket #: 2:16-cv-00724-WJ-SMV
Article from the New Mexico Tracker news letter July 2018
In yet another victory for trapping, the federal lawsuit filed against the New Mexico State Game Commission was decided on July 16, 2018 by Chief US District Court Judge William Johnson. The lawsuit has been ongoing since 2016 and was filed in an attempt to stop cougar trapping in NM.
The decision was what is called a “summary judgement” meaning the judge ruled on the merits of the arguments without the case having to go to a full trial. Both NMDGF and the Humane Society of the U.S. (HSUS) had filed separate motions asking for summary judgement in their favor. HSUS was trying to have the trapping portion of the cougar rule “stayed” which basically means they wanted it declared void in order to make lion trapping illegal again because, they said, the new cougar rule “threatens Mexican wolves”. In the 38 page written decision Judge Johnson explained that after reviewing “voluminous amounts of material as evidence”, numerous written statements from relevant witnesses and current case law (previous court decisions) there was no evidence that Mexican wolves are threatened due to trapping, especially cougar trapping in NM.
He granted summary judgement in favor of the commission, allowing the current cougar regulation to stay in effect. In the lawsuit, HSUS claimed that by allowing the trapping of cougar as a legal method of harvest the state game commission was violating the endangered species act since Mexican wolves might be caught in traps set for cougar. In making their arguments they misread, misinterpreted and misrepresented NM state trapping laws in their frivolous case. In one example HSUS witnesses told the court in written statements that there was no jaw spread restriction on un-laminated traps and because of this trappers could use huge traps to capture cougar. In the decision the Judge writes that he questioned HSUS on this “because it just did not make sense to prohibit the use of smaller laminated traps while allowing larger nonlaminated ones”. NMDGF’s Colonel of law enforcement made it clear that not only was this false but officers have consistently enforced the jaw spread regulation for nearly 2 decades and the cougar rule did not change this. Continued on page 2 Who is the NMTA? We are trappers from around the nation who have come together as a group to provide education and training for all trappers to practice "Wise Use" of our renewable fur resources.
Page 2 NMTA TRACKER Commission wins lion lawsuit cont. In the end Judge Johnson saw it for what it was, a ridiculous interpretation of the law. Attorneys for the commission presented evidence which demonstrated that traps, no larger than those allowed for other fur bearing animals, which are set for cougar, present no danger of a “take” of Mexican Gray Wolves. It will come as no surprise to those reading this that most of the HSUS arguments were full of inconsistencies, contradictions and lies. Thankfully the judge recognized this and pointed many of these out in his written decision.
The HSUS’s attorneys were ultimately forced to admit that despite 2 years of legal cougar trapping, no wolves had been caught in a trap set for lions, much less injured. In addition the judge pointed out that NMDGF has conducted cougar control using traps and foot snares in several bighorn sheep areas within occupied wolf habitat for 15+ years and NMDGF provided detailed records of over 60,000 trap nights (1 trap, set for 1 night = 1 trap night) in which they NEVER caught a wolf in a trap set for a cougar. Not once. Of course this is no surprise to those of us who trap since we know that wolves and lions don’t use the country side the same way, after all that’s why you don’t make a coyote set in the same place you make a bobcat set! NMDGF attorneys apparently made this point quite effectively since Judge Johnson noted it as an important factor in his decision: “Defendants (NM Game Commission) offer persuasive evidence that despite the habitat overlap, an understanding of habitat use can help eliminate the likelihood that Mexican wolves would be caught in non-target traps and snares. Species behave differently: Differences in behavioral characteristics between cougars and wolves (and how these animals use the landscape differently) make it unlikely that a trap set for cougar would catch a wolf.”
A loss in this case could have had significant impacts on the trapping of all furbearers since the only thing the commission legalized in the new cougar regulation was the harvest of cougars if the trapper had: 1) a cougar license, 2) a trapping license, 3) they trapped on state land or private land and 4) they caught a cougar in a trap which complied with all other current trapping laws. Larger traps were not allowed and all other laws already on the books which applied to trapping furbearers apply to cougar trappers. If the judge had ruled against the commission there likely would have been additional lawsuits against furbearer trapping since the size of traps might have been an issue. This decision reaffirms the state’s ability to manage wildlife and the methods those animals may be harvested by licensed hunters, anglers and trappers so long as the state game commission considers due care when an action may affect a species protected under the ESA.
The New Mexico State Game Commission should be commended for fighting this lawsuit rather than giving up and settling with the HSUS. Please let them know you appreciate their support for trapping and wildlife management based on science not emotion.
A complete copy of the 38 page written decision along with copies of all of the other court documents can be found at:
https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/5708021/humane-society-of-the-united-states-v-kienzle/
Or you can simply do an internet search using the case name or docket number: Case name: Humane Society of the United States v. Kienzle Docket #: 2:16-cv-00724-WJ-SMV
Thursday, September 20, 2018
Internet Sales Tax---Ebay & States Sales Tax
09-13-2018 01:10:45 PM
Last Edited 09-13-2018 01:58:54 PM by Community Team trinton@ebay
As you may know, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of South Dakota in June 2018,
which removed the requirement that certain retailers have a physical presence in a state in
order for that state to impose sales tax obligations on these retailers.
Some states have extended the tax collection obligation to marketplaces. We believe this
ruling is unfair to small businesses and will continue to call for greater simplicity. In the
meantime, we’re working to find the best way to support our sellers.
What this means for eBay sellers: Regardless of where you’re physically located, if you sell
to buyers in certain states, those states may require you to collect applicable taxes on your
transactions.
Therefore, based on these new laws, we will calculate, collect, and remit sales tax for orders
shipped to customers in the following states on the following schedule:
Washington—starting Jan 1, 2019
Pennsylvania— starting July 1, 2019
Oklahoma—starting July 1, 2019
Once we start collecting tax in these states, you do not need to take any action.
There are no extra charges or fees for this service. Prior to these dates, please continue
to collect and remit tax in these states and comply with any other applicable requirements
they impose.
There are no opt-outs for selling items into the states listed above, or out of eBay
automatically collecting sales tax for items shipped to the states above.
Additional states will likely be added to the above list. Stay informed on the Help pages.
For more information on these new tax requirements, we recommend that you consult with
your tax advisor. If you do not have a tax advisor, we’ve partnered with Avalara and TaxJar
and they will have specific insights into the best course of action for you.
As always, thank you for selling on eBay.
Last Edited 09-13-2018 01:58:54 PM by Community Team trinton@ebay
As you may know, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of South Dakota in June 2018,
which removed the requirement that certain retailers have a physical presence in a state in
order for that state to impose sales tax obligations on these retailers.
Some states have extended the tax collection obligation to marketplaces. We believe this
ruling is unfair to small businesses and will continue to call for greater simplicity. In the
meantime, we’re working to find the best way to support our sellers.
What this means for eBay sellers: Regardless of where you’re physically located, if you sell
to buyers in certain states, those states may require you to collect applicable taxes on your
transactions.
Therefore, based on these new laws, we will calculate, collect, and remit sales tax for orders
shipped to customers in the following states on the following schedule:
Washington—starting Jan 1, 2019
Pennsylvania— starting July 1, 2019
Oklahoma—starting July 1, 2019
Once we start collecting tax in these states, you do not need to take any action.
There are no extra charges or fees for this service. Prior to these dates, please continue
to collect and remit tax in these states and comply with any other applicable requirements
they impose.
There are no opt-outs for selling items into the states listed above, or out of eBay
automatically collecting sales tax for items shipped to the states above.
Additional states will likely be added to the above list. Stay informed on the Help pages.
For more information on these new tax requirements, we recommend that you consult with
your tax advisor. If you do not have a tax advisor, we’ve partnered with Avalara and TaxJar
and they will have specific insights into the best course of action for you.
As always, thank you for selling on eBay.
Thursday, August 30, 2018
English Flint Steel Leather Medicine Bags For Sale
22$ Shipped ---You are purchasing one machine stitched medicine style bag which contains one "C" style striker and an English flint flake
Strikers are not hand forged
The bags are various colors from oil tanned to modern dyed finishes
You get the bag of my choice. You may order other bag leather combinations provided the leather is in stock.
Price listed includes shipping and insurance.
General BPBRS bag information:
BPBReloading manufactures these bags they are not a cheap imported knock off.
Your bag or pouch may have slight defects such as a crooked stitch, misshaped flap,odd coloration, different strap materials. Leather used is top quality and from various sources.
Your bag or pouch may have several different leather color valuations & weight.
Most have a gusset see pictures for each item. Belt loops,slots or a strap for carrying.
Closures will be of antler,bone,tooth,brass stud and draw string. Sizes vary from 6x6" to 12x12" see description for exact details. If you looking for a $200.00 bag or pouch with a fancy cartouche these ain't it.
Shipping will be the least expensive way possible. That is usually USPS flat rate.
The sale price reflects all fees, paypal & handling/shipping cost.
BPBReloading has been a licensed FFL for over 30 years & is a solely owned veteran operation.
Price includes shipping within the United States
Thanks for looking
Regards,
blackpowderbill
Licensed FFL dealer
Google plus & YouTube
FaceBook Blackpowderbill
https://blackpowderbill.blogspot.com
Strikers are not hand forged
The bags are various colors from oil tanned to modern dyed finishes
You get the bag of my choice. You may order other bag leather combinations provided the leather is in stock.
Price listed includes shipping and insurance.
General BPBRS bag information:
BPBReloading manufactures these bags they are not a cheap imported knock off.
Your bag or pouch may have slight defects such as a crooked stitch, misshaped flap,odd coloration, different strap materials. Leather used is top quality and from various sources.
Your bag or pouch may have several different leather color valuations & weight.
Most have a gusset see pictures for each item. Belt loops,slots or a strap for carrying.
Closures will be of antler,bone,tooth,brass stud and draw string. Sizes vary from 6x6" to 12x12" see description for exact details. If you looking for a $200.00 bag or pouch with a fancy cartouche these ain't it.
Shipping will be the least expensive way possible. That is usually USPS flat rate.
The sale price reflects all fees, paypal & handling/shipping cost.
BPBReloading has been a licensed FFL for over 30 years & is a solely owned veteran operation.
Price includes shipping within the United States
Thanks for looking
Regards,
blackpowderbill
Licensed FFL dealer
Google plus & YouTube
FaceBook Blackpowderbill
https://blackpowderbill.blogspot.com
Monday, August 20, 2018
Gov. Cuomo No Good News He Just Runs His Pie Hole!
Yep typical liberal rant he inflames the people by continually running his big mouth. His voter base, one would think may stop kissing his ass. Ya know, since he hasn't done a damn thing for New Yorkisstan in 4 years except line the pockets of his crooked supporters.
Jail for all who surrounds him Just like the firmer NY Senator, Sec of State & #Looser2016Hillary & Bill. How the hell can so many people get jailed, loose a job fold a million dollar political group and these 3 scumbags of NY are walking around FREE?
Anywayyalayyoursights
Regards BPB FFL 30+ years Veteran owned
Here is Budd's article: The Right Side
THE RIGHT SIDE
BY BUDD SCHROEDER
AUGUST 22. 2018
CUOMO IS WRONG. AMERICA IS GREAT
People have to be careful what they say and to whom they say it. This is particularly true when it comes to politicians and speeches. President Donald Trump keeps raising eyebrows and getting unflattering media comments for some of his speeches and Tweets. It seems to be part of the game.
Recently, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo made a huge gaff when he tried to denigrate a Trump slogan of “Make America Great Again.” Cuomo made the comment that America was never great and that started the commentary about how America is great, was great, and will continue to be great. At least that is the comment shared by patriotic Americans.
The Cuomo statement is really backfiring at Cuomo and it is ammunition for the big guns in the conservative movement making Cuomo the perfect target for shots that don’t have to be cheap. It is difficult to find anything that is perfect and that includes countries and governments, but America is still growing and getting better in spite of the liberal criticisms.
What makes America great is the people who have created the republic and those who keep trying to improve it. When the Declaration of Independence was written it was done to separate the colony from a monarchy and it focused on freedom. The government was created in a manner that there would be no rulers. It created a government that would be one of laws, not men.
The Constitution was a written document that affirmed certain rights were created by God and not subject to the whims of rulers. These rights focused on individual freedoms and so enumerated in the Bill of Rights. However, there was a big error that was not corrected because of political compromise to get the Constitution passed. It still allowed the abomination of slavery.
Even with the declaration that “all men are created equal” was written, it was perverted and slavery lasted for almost another century. It took the efforts of a great President, Abraham Lincoln, and a Civil War to make all people free. Even then, it took another century to improve on the levels of that freedom. The war didn’t solve the problem, but it did open the door so there could be a solution.
That is a factor that makes America great. It has the means and the will to improve and the freedoms are what helped to create the Industrial Revolution. Some may call it capitalism, but what it did was to take away the practice in the old country of nobility and serfs. Here, a person could start a business that could morph into an industry and create wealth and a better life for those who had the intelligence and ambition to work and to create new ways and products.
During the growth of the country, injustices were inflicted on the Native Americans. Bluntly, the government stole the land, broke treaties and created reservations that would contain the Indians. They lived in poverty and under very poor conditions. It still is not rectified, but it seems that some are making a good living building and running casinos and is an example of how they can catch up on the American Dream.
That brings up another issue involving Governor Cuomo. He has created another war with the tribes. They are not supposed to be taxed, but he disagrees with that and has even allowed competition by building state run casinos. That isn’t working very well for him, either.
However, while there is the process and history for improving America, there are also some built in handicaps which we refer to as corruption. Now, corruption has been a part of civilization since it started. There seems to be a human failing known as greed and it sometimes takes over the personality of those who are focused on power. As this column has mentioned several times, politics is not about good government. It is all about power and money.
That statement is difficult to argue against. Truth can be very inconvenient to the overly ambitious politicians. Fortunately, there are still some people who run for office and are elected who are honest and do the right thing. In this state, we can call them a minority just by looking at Albany.
Sure, we make progress. America has been a leader in helping other countries survive because of our actions, like military intervention where necessary. There were a couple of instances where intervention wasn’t a good idea but we have helped countries ravaged by natural disasters and wars. America has been a champion of trying to help others.
We still keep trying to do that, but even there the problem of corruption raises its ugly head. It is seen from local governments to the federal level. The more money available, the more corruption, and New York is an example of the art of “pay for play.” An Assembly Speaker and a Senate Majority Leader have been convicted for corrupt practices and still have not spent a day in prison.
This brings us back to Governor Cuomo who has amassed a campaign fund of more than thirty million dollars. That brings a focus to links between state contracts and donations to his war chest. This has been going on all during his tenure. He once initiated the Moreland Commission which he said was to fight corruption in Albany, but ended it under suspicious conditions.
Now, because of the gubernatorial election looming large, the issues are being brought up, but it would seem that the major media does not give it the attention it deserves. Andrew Cuomo is definitely a liberal’s liberal and most of the media in the state is controlled by liberals, so the issue is not given the attention it deserves.
This column will be focusing on corruption and go beyond the disdain Governor Cuomo thinks about the greatness of America. We will make the effort to bring attention to the inequities of focus on why New York is the highest taxed state in the nation and has more government controls on everyday life than most.
Stay tuned for more news about why Governor Cuomo thinks America isn’t so great and what the people will have to do to correct his mistake. It is called election and our right to vote. The power belongs to the people, but they have to use it.
-30-
Jail for all who surrounds him Just like the firmer NY Senator, Sec of State & #Looser2016Hillary & Bill. How the hell can so many people get jailed, loose a job fold a million dollar political group and these 3 scumbags of NY are walking around FREE?
Anywayyalayyoursights
Regards BPB FFL 30+ years Veteran owned
Here is Budd's article: The Right Side
THE RIGHT SIDE
BY BUDD SCHROEDER
AUGUST 22. 2018
CUOMO IS WRONG. AMERICA IS GREAT
People have to be careful what they say and to whom they say it. This is particularly true when it comes to politicians and speeches. President Donald Trump keeps raising eyebrows and getting unflattering media comments for some of his speeches and Tweets. It seems to be part of the game.
Recently, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo made a huge gaff when he tried to denigrate a Trump slogan of “Make America Great Again.” Cuomo made the comment that America was never great and that started the commentary about how America is great, was great, and will continue to be great. At least that is the comment shared by patriotic Americans.
The Cuomo statement is really backfiring at Cuomo and it is ammunition for the big guns in the conservative movement making Cuomo the perfect target for shots that don’t have to be cheap. It is difficult to find anything that is perfect and that includes countries and governments, but America is still growing and getting better in spite of the liberal criticisms.
What makes America great is the people who have created the republic and those who keep trying to improve it. When the Declaration of Independence was written it was done to separate the colony from a monarchy and it focused on freedom. The government was created in a manner that there would be no rulers. It created a government that would be one of laws, not men.
The Constitution was a written document that affirmed certain rights were created by God and not subject to the whims of rulers. These rights focused on individual freedoms and so enumerated in the Bill of Rights. However, there was a big error that was not corrected because of political compromise to get the Constitution passed. It still allowed the abomination of slavery.
Even with the declaration that “all men are created equal” was written, it was perverted and slavery lasted for almost another century. It took the efforts of a great President, Abraham Lincoln, and a Civil War to make all people free. Even then, it took another century to improve on the levels of that freedom. The war didn’t solve the problem, but it did open the door so there could be a solution.
That is a factor that makes America great. It has the means and the will to improve and the freedoms are what helped to create the Industrial Revolution. Some may call it capitalism, but what it did was to take away the practice in the old country of nobility and serfs. Here, a person could start a business that could morph into an industry and create wealth and a better life for those who had the intelligence and ambition to work and to create new ways and products.
During the growth of the country, injustices were inflicted on the Native Americans. Bluntly, the government stole the land, broke treaties and created reservations that would contain the Indians. They lived in poverty and under very poor conditions. It still is not rectified, but it seems that some are making a good living building and running casinos and is an example of how they can catch up on the American Dream.
That brings up another issue involving Governor Cuomo. He has created another war with the tribes. They are not supposed to be taxed, but he disagrees with that and has even allowed competition by building state run casinos. That isn’t working very well for him, either.
However, while there is the process and history for improving America, there are also some built in handicaps which we refer to as corruption. Now, corruption has been a part of civilization since it started. There seems to be a human failing known as greed and it sometimes takes over the personality of those who are focused on power. As this column has mentioned several times, politics is not about good government. It is all about power and money.
That statement is difficult to argue against. Truth can be very inconvenient to the overly ambitious politicians. Fortunately, there are still some people who run for office and are elected who are honest and do the right thing. In this state, we can call them a minority just by looking at Albany.
Sure, we make progress. America has been a leader in helping other countries survive because of our actions, like military intervention where necessary. There were a couple of instances where intervention wasn’t a good idea but we have helped countries ravaged by natural disasters and wars. America has been a champion of trying to help others.
We still keep trying to do that, but even there the problem of corruption raises its ugly head. It is seen from local governments to the federal level. The more money available, the more corruption, and New York is an example of the art of “pay for play.” An Assembly Speaker and a Senate Majority Leader have been convicted for corrupt practices and still have not spent a day in prison.
This brings us back to Governor Cuomo who has amassed a campaign fund of more than thirty million dollars. That brings a focus to links between state contracts and donations to his war chest. This has been going on all during his tenure. He once initiated the Moreland Commission which he said was to fight corruption in Albany, but ended it under suspicious conditions.
Now, because of the gubernatorial election looming large, the issues are being brought up, but it would seem that the major media does not give it the attention it deserves. Andrew Cuomo is definitely a liberal’s liberal and most of the media in the state is controlled by liberals, so the issue is not given the attention it deserves.
This column will be focusing on corruption and go beyond the disdain Governor Cuomo thinks about the greatness of America. We will make the effort to bring attention to the inequities of focus on why New York is the highest taxed state in the nation and has more government controls on everyday life than most.
Stay tuned for more news about why Governor Cuomo thinks America isn’t so great and what the people will have to do to correct his mistake. It is called election and our right to vote. The power belongs to the people, but they have to use it.
-30-
Wednesday, August 15, 2018
States-Government Restrictions on Binary Trigger Systems
Doesn't take long for more firearms part restrictions to be implemented. Here is the email I received from Williams Shooters Supply from Franklin Armory this morning. This is what happens when you elect people who "say" they support the 2nd amendment.
To control your state capitol you must elect local politicians that will fight the state mandates.
Regards bpb
FFL 30+ years Veteran owned
Franklin Armory has provided a list of new and upcoming restrictions on Binary Triggers
Please be advised of the following new and possibly upcoming restrictions of products.
Hawaii has been added to the list of prohibited states for BFSIII™ products. All sales of BFSIII™ products to Hawaii are prohibited immediately.
Delaware: Effective immediately, BFSIII™ triggers are sold for use in pistols and non-rifle firearms only. Buffer springs and adjustable gas blocks are sold for use in pistols and non-rifle firearms only.
Florida: As of September 1st Franklin Armory will be re-evaluating the status of the October 1st laws.
Maryland: As of September 1st Franklin Armory will be re-evaluating the status of the October 1st laws.
Connecticut: As of September 1st Franklin Armory will be re-evaluating the status of the October 1st laws.
Vermont: Effective immediately, rifles will now only ship with 10rnd magazines and pistols will only ship with 15rnd magazines
There are numerous legal challenges to many of these restrictive new laws and we will update you if the status of any of these items changes.
Stock up now before restrictions hit your state. BlackPowderBill can provide you with the parts you need prior to yet another firearm part restriction.
To control your state capitol you must elect local politicians that will fight the state mandates.
Regards bpb
FFL 30+ years Veteran owned
Franklin Armory has provided a list of new and upcoming restrictions on Binary Triggers
Please be advised of the following new and possibly upcoming restrictions of products.
Hawaii has been added to the list of prohibited states for BFSIII™ products. All sales of BFSIII™ products to Hawaii are prohibited immediately.
Delaware: Effective immediately, BFSIII™ triggers are sold for use in pistols and non-rifle firearms only. Buffer springs and adjustable gas blocks are sold for use in pistols and non-rifle firearms only.
Florida: As of September 1st Franklin Armory will be re-evaluating the status of the October 1st laws.
Maryland: As of September 1st Franklin Armory will be re-evaluating the status of the October 1st laws.
Connecticut: As of September 1st Franklin Armory will be re-evaluating the status of the October 1st laws.
Vermont: Effective immediately, rifles will now only ship with 10rnd magazines and pistols will only ship with 15rnd magazines
There are numerous legal challenges to many of these restrictive new laws and we will update you if the status of any of these items changes.
Stock up now before restrictions hit your state. BlackPowderBill can provide you with the parts you need prior to yet another firearm part restriction.
Monday, August 13, 2018
Leather Hand Stitched Belt & Possibles Bags
75$ shipped Brown with Lacing
165$ Shipped Large bag W/ inside dividers
My generic sales pitch:
Prices range from 40$ to 175$ depending on size,leather used,pockets added, loops metal beads bone, laced or sewn & straps.
Small medicine bags most are machine sewn prices range from 4 to 10$ with the upper priced being hand sewn.
You're purchasing one belt bag appx size 6x7" or larger hand sewn with white hemp,waxed linen, artificial sinew,cotton,flax thread.
1 or 2 belt loops on the back for the belt/sash. Shoulder straps can be adjusted either by lacing strap together or rings to desired length.
These bags or pouches are hand stitched using a variety of thread.
BPBReloading manufactures these bags they are not a cheap imported knock off.
The leather ,stitching and finish represent a home made item like would be put together in a frontier home using scrap or re-purposed materials available. Your bag or pouch may ,(will); have slight defects such as a crooked stitch, misshaped flap,odd coloration, different strap materials. Leather used is top quality and from various sources.
Your bag or pouch may have several different leather color valuations & weight.
Most have a gusset see pictures for each item. The gusset will be of leather or woven strap. Belt loops,slots or a adjustable strap for carrying.
Closures will be of antler,bone,tooth,brass stud and draw string. Sizes vary from 6x6" to 12x12" see description for exact details. If you looking for a $200.00 bag or pouch with a fancy cartouche' these ain't it. But I can come close to 200$
Shipping will be the least expensive way possible. That is usually USPS flat rate.
The sale price reflects all auction fees,paypal fee & handling/shipping cost.
BPBReloading has been a licensed FFL for over 30 years & is a solely owned veteran operation.
The fee includes shipping within the United States
Thanks for looking
Regards,
blackpowderbill
Licensed FFL dealer 30+years
Veteran owned
Google+ & YouTube
FaceBook Blackpowderbill
Thursday, August 9, 2018
NY SCOPE News Letter July/August Issue
Shooters Committee for Political Education latest news letter July/ August
It is a pdf format appx 20 pages
Firing Lines
Regards BPB
Past NYS Director at Large
It is a pdf format appx 20 pages
Firing Lines
Regards BPB
Past NYS Director at Large
Sunday, July 29, 2018
BIG TROUBLE LOOMING FOR (ALL) MIGRATORY BIRDS Solar Farms
BIG TROUBLE LOOMING FOR (ALL) MIGRATORY BIRDS
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 (MBTA) has been the single most important protection for our incredible migratory bird resources in all of history. It served to implement theMigratory Bird Treaty signed by the U.S. and Great Britain (on behalf of Canada) in 1916. In short, it prevents anyone not otherwise permitted to “at any time, by any means, or in any manner to hunt, take, capture [or] kill” any protected [listed] migratory birds.”But now there are some serious, even dangerously debilitating problems being proposed that will completely disable (if not destroy) the protections offered by this Act.
Those problems can all be boiled down to one word: Reinterpretation.
The Department of Interior (DOI) is proposing to substantially change the legal definition of the single word “take” as it is found in the MBTA. And changing the traditional and venerated meaning of that single word bodes ill if not evil for all of our migratory birds.
Here is what I am talking about. Almost exactly 100 years ago the Congress passed the earliest and most important conservation law, the MBTA. Among other things it established the Federal Government’s authority to regulate the “take” of birds, including the prohibition against taking certain non-game birds such as eagles, hawks, songbirds and other birds not historically considered to be “game” birds. The language used in that Act was clear, straightforward and enforceable. Specifically it states, “Unless an individual has a valid permit, “it shall be unlawful at any time, by any means, or in any manner” to “hunt, take, capture [or] kill” migratory birds.” Furthermore, it does not discriminate between live or dead birds, and it also protects any bird parts including feathers, eggs, and nests. There are over 800 bird species currently listed. But now there is a big problem. Under a new, precedent setting Department of Interior Solicitor’s Opinion (dated Dec. 22, 2017), the prohibitions on “take” have been dramatically changed. Taking a protected migratory bird is now limited only to killings when “the actor [is] engaged in an activity the object of which was to render an animal subject to human control.
The single most important activity in the entire MBTA (taking or attempting to take migratory birds), a prohibited activity that has been clear and straightforward for 100 years, is essentially now being limited only to hunters and their activities regarding migratory game birds.In fact this contrived new standard is contrary to every other previous Administration’s interpretation of the law. It is abhorrent for almost countless reasons. Primarily it reduces the MBTA’s effectiveness (or even usefulness) with respect to protecting migratory birds from almost any other (previously illegal) “take” activity.Here is a short list of dangers that already have or will continue to be adversely affecting all migratory birds. Oil spills can occur almost any time and in any place.
The Exxon Valdez grounding and subsequent oil spill in the Prince William Sound is just one good example.
Tens of thousands of protected migratory birds were either killed or severely oil covered in that incident. With the law and regulations in place before this Solicitor’s decision was announced the birds were illegally killed or injured under the “take” provisions of the MBTA and prosecutions against the culprits were successful. But under these new regulations any birds found in a similar situation were never taken at all, and therefore no person, corporation or entity would or could be prosecuted. That is criminal.Oil pits and seeps are another major problem. They are places where crude oil has, for whatever reason, been deposited on the land’s surface. This might be from a leak, a broken pipe, or any of several other causes. To birds in flight these areas look like bodies of water.
The Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) has, in the past, required these areas to be covered or otherwise subjected to remedial action, and fines have been levied. Under this new definition, every single dead or oil-soaked migratory bird would be an unprotected “thing.”Poison pits are one of my biggest pet peeves. I once spent eleven months investigating and successfully prosecuting a major pesticide company for the unintentional killing of hundreds if not thousands of migrating birds. Here is the official court summary of that case (U.S. vs FMC):“FMC operated a plant which manufactured various pesticides, requiring large amounts of wastewater which was stored in a pond. The pond attracted waterfowl during migration, some of which died. FMC attempted various measures to keep birds away from the pond. But, the Court held that FMC had engaged in an activity involving the manufacture of a highly toxic chemical and had failed to prevent this chemical from escaping into the pond and killing birds. The Court, therefore, held that this was sufficient to impose strict liability on FMC.”Future prosecutions like this would be dead in the (poison) water before they ever got started (pun definitely and sadly intended).High voltage electric likes are a deadly obstacle for migrating birds and local-living eagles, hawks and other birds of prey. In some areas (migratory bird historical migration routes) these lines are utterly deadly, accounting for thousands of deaths every spring and fall.
But once again this new and unwarranted definition would leave those deaths to go unpunished.
Wind turbines, the bane of landscapes in certain areas from the Atlantic to Pacific Oceans and from the Canadian to the Mexican borders, are no doubt one of the two primary reasons for this disgraceful change in the definition of “take” with respect to migratory bird protection. The owners/operators of these windmills have long lamented the fines imposed by the FWS for so many illegal bird deaths. After all, it cuts down on their overly massive profits.
The other probable cause for the definition change are the many solar collection establishments pock-marking our nation (especially in western states). Their immense displays of solar panels kill virtually every bird that has the audacity to fly over them. The workers at these solar firms even have a name for birds dead in the air as they are falling.
“There goes another ‘smoker.’ These operators definitely want to be let of the hook for their killings. Loss of profits, don’t you know.There are many other commercial killers of protected migratory birds, such as commercial fishing operations (set gill-nets kill countless diving birds), that often go unnoticed by most people. But they are still deadly, and they will also be “off the hook” if this new definition of migratory bird take is permitted to remain standing. It essentially reduces the MBTA to nothing more than only a bird hunting statute. The MBTA implements international treaties ratified by the U.S. Senate.
Any Administration action that would affect the MBTA should have been done only after consultation with Canada, Mexico, Russia and Japan, and the U.S. Senate. Instead this Department, or possibly this Administration, has unilaterally decreed that the definition of “take”now refers only to the sport hunting of migratory game birds, and offers no other protections to those same birds or any other migratory birds.In an unprecedented show of solidarity opposing this new interpretation, former career FWS professionals responsible for administering the MBTA joined with former political leaders from FWS and DOI, both Republican and Democrat and representing every Administration dating back to the 1970’s, signed a letter to Secretary Ryan Zinke on January 10, 2018 expressing strong opposition to this ill-conceived limitation of one of America’s most important and effective conservation laws. To date, this coalition of leaders has not received a response to this letter.
If we want to really continue to protect our migratory bird resources, we cannot accept or condone the DOI’s actions. “The take of birds, eggs or nests occurring as the result of an activity,the purpose of which is not to take birds, eggs or nests, is not prohibited by the MBTA” simply cannot be allowed to become the operational norm of the USFWS.As the MBTA is one of the oldest and most important foundation laws protecting wildlife, the FWS Retirees Association (chair@fwsretirees.org) urges all members (and all other interested persons) to express their concern and objection to this new legal interpretation to both Secretary Zinke and their Members of Congress, both House and Senate.
Len Lisenbee is the Daily Messenger’s Outdoor Columnist.
Contact him at lisenbee@frontiernet .net
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 (MBTA) has been the single most important protection for our incredible migratory bird resources in all of history. It served to implement theMigratory Bird Treaty signed by the U.S. and Great Britain (on behalf of Canada) in 1916. In short, it prevents anyone not otherwise permitted to “at any time, by any means, or in any manner to hunt, take, capture [or] kill” any protected [listed] migratory birds.”But now there are some serious, even dangerously debilitating problems being proposed that will completely disable (if not destroy) the protections offered by this Act.
Those problems can all be boiled down to one word: Reinterpretation.
The Department of Interior (DOI) is proposing to substantially change the legal definition of the single word “take” as it is found in the MBTA. And changing the traditional and venerated meaning of that single word bodes ill if not evil for all of our migratory birds.
Here is what I am talking about. Almost exactly 100 years ago the Congress passed the earliest and most important conservation law, the MBTA. Among other things it established the Federal Government’s authority to regulate the “take” of birds, including the prohibition against taking certain non-game birds such as eagles, hawks, songbirds and other birds not historically considered to be “game” birds. The language used in that Act was clear, straightforward and enforceable. Specifically it states, “Unless an individual has a valid permit, “it shall be unlawful at any time, by any means, or in any manner” to “hunt, take, capture [or] kill” migratory birds.” Furthermore, it does not discriminate between live or dead birds, and it also protects any bird parts including feathers, eggs, and nests. There are over 800 bird species currently listed. But now there is a big problem. Under a new, precedent setting Department of Interior Solicitor’s Opinion (dated Dec. 22, 2017), the prohibitions on “take” have been dramatically changed. Taking a protected migratory bird is now limited only to killings when “the actor [is] engaged in an activity the object of which was to render an animal subject to human control.
The single most important activity in the entire MBTA (taking or attempting to take migratory birds), a prohibited activity that has been clear and straightforward for 100 years, is essentially now being limited only to hunters and their activities regarding migratory game birds.In fact this contrived new standard is contrary to every other previous Administration’s interpretation of the law. It is abhorrent for almost countless reasons. Primarily it reduces the MBTA’s effectiveness (or even usefulness) with respect to protecting migratory birds from almost any other (previously illegal) “take” activity.Here is a short list of dangers that already have or will continue to be adversely affecting all migratory birds. Oil spills can occur almost any time and in any place.
The Exxon Valdez grounding and subsequent oil spill in the Prince William Sound is just one good example.
Tens of thousands of protected migratory birds were either killed or severely oil covered in that incident. With the law and regulations in place before this Solicitor’s decision was announced the birds were illegally killed or injured under the “take” provisions of the MBTA and prosecutions against the culprits were successful. But under these new regulations any birds found in a similar situation were never taken at all, and therefore no person, corporation or entity would or could be prosecuted. That is criminal.Oil pits and seeps are another major problem. They are places where crude oil has, for whatever reason, been deposited on the land’s surface. This might be from a leak, a broken pipe, or any of several other causes. To birds in flight these areas look like bodies of water.
The Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) has, in the past, required these areas to be covered or otherwise subjected to remedial action, and fines have been levied. Under this new definition, every single dead or oil-soaked migratory bird would be an unprotected “thing.”Poison pits are one of my biggest pet peeves. I once spent eleven months investigating and successfully prosecuting a major pesticide company for the unintentional killing of hundreds if not thousands of migrating birds. Here is the official court summary of that case (U.S. vs FMC):“FMC operated a plant which manufactured various pesticides, requiring large amounts of wastewater which was stored in a pond. The pond attracted waterfowl during migration, some of which died. FMC attempted various measures to keep birds away from the pond. But, the Court held that FMC had engaged in an activity involving the manufacture of a highly toxic chemical and had failed to prevent this chemical from escaping into the pond and killing birds. The Court, therefore, held that this was sufficient to impose strict liability on FMC.”Future prosecutions like this would be dead in the (poison) water before they ever got started (pun definitely and sadly intended).High voltage electric likes are a deadly obstacle for migrating birds and local-living eagles, hawks and other birds of prey. In some areas (migratory bird historical migration routes) these lines are utterly deadly, accounting for thousands of deaths every spring and fall.
But once again this new and unwarranted definition would leave those deaths to go unpunished.
Wind turbines, the bane of landscapes in certain areas from the Atlantic to Pacific Oceans and from the Canadian to the Mexican borders, are no doubt one of the two primary reasons for this disgraceful change in the definition of “take” with respect to migratory bird protection. The owners/operators of these windmills have long lamented the fines imposed by the FWS for so many illegal bird deaths. After all, it cuts down on their overly massive profits.
The other probable cause for the definition change are the many solar collection establishments pock-marking our nation (especially in western states). Their immense displays of solar panels kill virtually every bird that has the audacity to fly over them. The workers at these solar firms even have a name for birds dead in the air as they are falling.
“There goes another ‘smoker.’ These operators definitely want to be let of the hook for their killings. Loss of profits, don’t you know.There are many other commercial killers of protected migratory birds, such as commercial fishing operations (set gill-nets kill countless diving birds), that often go unnoticed by most people. But they are still deadly, and they will also be “off the hook” if this new definition of migratory bird take is permitted to remain standing. It essentially reduces the MBTA to nothing more than only a bird hunting statute. The MBTA implements international treaties ratified by the U.S. Senate.
Any Administration action that would affect the MBTA should have been done only after consultation with Canada, Mexico, Russia and Japan, and the U.S. Senate. Instead this Department, or possibly this Administration, has unilaterally decreed that the definition of “take”now refers only to the sport hunting of migratory game birds, and offers no other protections to those same birds or any other migratory birds.In an unprecedented show of solidarity opposing this new interpretation, former career FWS professionals responsible for administering the MBTA joined with former political leaders from FWS and DOI, both Republican and Democrat and representing every Administration dating back to the 1970’s, signed a letter to Secretary Ryan Zinke on January 10, 2018 expressing strong opposition to this ill-conceived limitation of one of America’s most important and effective conservation laws. To date, this coalition of leaders has not received a response to this letter.
If we want to really continue to protect our migratory bird resources, we cannot accept or condone the DOI’s actions. “The take of birds, eggs or nests occurring as the result of an activity,the purpose of which is not to take birds, eggs or nests, is not prohibited by the MBTA” simply cannot be allowed to become the operational norm of the USFWS.As the MBTA is one of the oldest and most important foundation laws protecting wildlife, the FWS Retirees Association (chair@fwsretirees.org) urges all members (and all other interested persons) to express their concern and objection to this new legal interpretation to both Secretary Zinke and their Members of Congress, both House and Senate.
Len Lisenbee is the Daily Messenger’s Outdoor Columnist.
Contact him at lisenbee@frontiernet .net
Saturday, July 28, 2018
Remington Awarded Army Carbine Contract
Remington Awarded Army Carbine Contract
REM Defense
July 25, 2018
Huntsville, AL ‐ Remington is pleased to announce the recent award of a contract to supply the US Army with Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) 5.56mm Carbines.
This is the second significant award for 5.56mm carbines to Remington by the US Army on behalf of key international allies. Remington Chief Executive Officer Anthony Acitelli said of the award: "Remington is proud of our continuing contribution to public safety and our nation's national security priorities worldwide. "We look forward to continuing our daily dedication to the design, production, and delivery of the highest quality military and law enforcement products for our public safety officers, warfighters, and allies alike."
REM Defense
July 25, 2018
Huntsville, AL ‐ Remington is pleased to announce the recent award of a contract to supply the US Army with Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) 5.56mm Carbines.
This is the second significant award for 5.56mm carbines to Remington by the US Army on behalf of key international allies. Remington Chief Executive Officer Anthony Acitelli said of the award: "Remington is proud of our continuing contribution to public safety and our nation's national security priorities worldwide. "We look forward to continuing our daily dedication to the design, production, and delivery of the highest quality military and law enforcement products for our public safety officers, warfighters, and allies alike."
Monday, July 23, 2018
SHOULD MARIJUANA BE LEGAL IN NEW YORK?
THE RIGHT SIDE
BY BUDD SCHROEDER
I'll add legal at the federal level so citizens can retain firearms and other rights otherwise restricted by law. bpb
Budd is a former NY NRA Director and present SCOPEny.org board member.
JULY 25, 2018
SHOULD MARIJUANA BE LEGAL IN NEW YORK?
The questions come up about legalizing marijuana in New York and like many laws it has advocates and detractors. There are many who believe the benefits of medical marijuana and have stated that they have merit. It has shown to be helpful for easing pain and can aid in treating illnesses involving seizures. That is a truly positive approach.
If opiates can be used as treatment for pain, why not the use of marijuana? Medical experts claim that it is not as addictive as prescription pain pills and has fewer side effects and other disadvantages. That could be a big plus.
However, there is the question, often brought up by those in law enforcement, who believe that pot can be an entry drug for the opiates which cause thousands of deaths a year. Also, many experts say that the smoking of weed is as harmful as tobacco which causes lung and associated diseases.
There is a question about addiction as well and the controversy goes on. Tobacco and alcohol are legal and they are addictive, so why not make marijuana legal as well? Many politicians are on board for passing a law to make it legal. They quote the economic benefits to the state because it can generate money in sales and other taxes. That is a huge Albany motive.
It appears that Governor Cuomo is giving serious consideration to making it legal. After all, Canada has legalized it for recreational purposes, so why discriminate against New Yorkers who want to smoke a joint to relax and forget about reality for a little while?
Like any argument with at least two sides, this one has several. For one thing, it does affect the thinking process and those who use it to excess, like with drunkards and alcohol, it can have severe consequences. The big question that pops to the front is what effect can it have if a person is high on the drug and decides to drive his car. We really don’t need more impaired drivers on our highways.
Many deaths are caused by drivers distracted by using cell phones because it takes their minds off the need to be constantly alert when on the road. The chemicals in alcohol and drugs also cause major distractions and negative impacts on judgements and reflexes. Having the use of additional mind altering drugs can cause hundreds of more vehicle deaths. Is it worth the risk?
It probably would be an excellent idea to do complete studies on the states that have legalized pot and sell it with the government restrictions and ability to increase the tax flow. Do positive economic advantages overcome the negative results of drug legalization?
Looking past the economic advantages for government spending because of increased revenue, it should also consider the financial costs of the potential down side. First question would be to determine if it really leads to the use of opiates and other illegal drugs. Does the buzz of pot prime the desire to try something stronger?
Is it addictive in itself or lead to other drug addictions. Treatment for any addiction like alcohol or currently illegal drugs is a big drain on society. The current answer is “education and treatment.” Both can be expensive and obviously has limits on effectiveness. How many people go into rehab and then go back to the habit? It would appear that the success rate is relatively low.
Can we afford the cost of property damage and medical bills caused by the impaired driver’s desire for a little chemical “recreation?” Those in favor of the legalization can claim that only a small percentage of drinkers and drug users will cause the problems. How many of the negatives ae we willing to accept?
Perhaps the argument could be to make higher penalties for those who break the law. Would it be enough discouragement to cause more people to drive sober? For example, if a person gets a felony DWI, he is unable to purchase or own a firearm for the rest of his life even if a gun was not involved with the arrest.
Usually after a period of time, the privilege of driving and owning a car can be reinstated. How about increasing the penalty of a felony DWI or DUI to cause the person to never be able to get a driver’s license to own a vehicle?
Doesn’t that make more sense?
Speaking of drugs and guns, nobody has any objections to criminals who sell, make or use illegal drugs becoming felons and losing Second Amendment rights. Criminals don’t deserve to be gun owners.
However when a person goes through a background check, the form 4473 asks “Are you an unlawful user or addicted to marijuana or other…( illegal drug)?’’
At the end of the end of the question it states. “The use and possession of marijuana remains unlawful under federal law regardless of whether it has been legalized or decriminalized for medical or recreational purposes in the state where you reside.”
Medical marijuana users in New York may not legally purchase or possess firearms. It is highly possible if a person goes to Canada, smokes a joint, is stopped at the border and charged with using marijuana, they can have their guns confiscated and never be able to own one again under the federal law.
This would make governor Cuomo very happy to have yet another reason to confiscate a citizen’s guns. We could expect him to be happy to sign that law. It would be a pleasure for him to be “tough on gun laws.” It might even be a campaign promise.
-30-
BY BUDD SCHROEDER
I'll add legal at the federal level so citizens can retain firearms and other rights otherwise restricted by law. bpb
Budd is a former NY NRA Director and present SCOPEny.org board member.
JULY 25, 2018
SHOULD MARIJUANA BE LEGAL IN NEW YORK?
The questions come up about legalizing marijuana in New York and like many laws it has advocates and detractors. There are many who believe the benefits of medical marijuana and have stated that they have merit. It has shown to be helpful for easing pain and can aid in treating illnesses involving seizures. That is a truly positive approach.
If opiates can be used as treatment for pain, why not the use of marijuana? Medical experts claim that it is not as addictive as prescription pain pills and has fewer side effects and other disadvantages. That could be a big plus.
However, there is the question, often brought up by those in law enforcement, who believe that pot can be an entry drug for the opiates which cause thousands of deaths a year. Also, many experts say that the smoking of weed is as harmful as tobacco which causes lung and associated diseases.
There is a question about addiction as well and the controversy goes on. Tobacco and alcohol are legal and they are addictive, so why not make marijuana legal as well? Many politicians are on board for passing a law to make it legal. They quote the economic benefits to the state because it can generate money in sales and other taxes. That is a huge Albany motive.
It appears that Governor Cuomo is giving serious consideration to making it legal. After all, Canada has legalized it for recreational purposes, so why discriminate against New Yorkers who want to smoke a joint to relax and forget about reality for a little while?
Like any argument with at least two sides, this one has several. For one thing, it does affect the thinking process and those who use it to excess, like with drunkards and alcohol, it can have severe consequences. The big question that pops to the front is what effect can it have if a person is high on the drug and decides to drive his car. We really don’t need more impaired drivers on our highways.
Many deaths are caused by drivers distracted by using cell phones because it takes their minds off the need to be constantly alert when on the road. The chemicals in alcohol and drugs also cause major distractions and negative impacts on judgements and reflexes. Having the use of additional mind altering drugs can cause hundreds of more vehicle deaths. Is it worth the risk?
It probably would be an excellent idea to do complete studies on the states that have legalized pot and sell it with the government restrictions and ability to increase the tax flow. Do positive economic advantages overcome the negative results of drug legalization?
Looking past the economic advantages for government spending because of increased revenue, it should also consider the financial costs of the potential down side. First question would be to determine if it really leads to the use of opiates and other illegal drugs. Does the buzz of pot prime the desire to try something stronger?
Is it addictive in itself or lead to other drug addictions. Treatment for any addiction like alcohol or currently illegal drugs is a big drain on society. The current answer is “education and treatment.” Both can be expensive and obviously has limits on effectiveness. How many people go into rehab and then go back to the habit? It would appear that the success rate is relatively low.
Can we afford the cost of property damage and medical bills caused by the impaired driver’s desire for a little chemical “recreation?” Those in favor of the legalization can claim that only a small percentage of drinkers and drug users will cause the problems. How many of the negatives ae we willing to accept?
Perhaps the argument could be to make higher penalties for those who break the law. Would it be enough discouragement to cause more people to drive sober? For example, if a person gets a felony DWI, he is unable to purchase or own a firearm for the rest of his life even if a gun was not involved with the arrest.
Usually after a period of time, the privilege of driving and owning a car can be reinstated. How about increasing the penalty of a felony DWI or DUI to cause the person to never be able to get a driver’s license to own a vehicle?
Doesn’t that make more sense?
Speaking of drugs and guns, nobody has any objections to criminals who sell, make or use illegal drugs becoming felons and losing Second Amendment rights. Criminals don’t deserve to be gun owners.
However when a person goes through a background check, the form 4473 asks “Are you an unlawful user or addicted to marijuana or other…( illegal drug)?’’
At the end of the end of the question it states. “The use and possession of marijuana remains unlawful under federal law regardless of whether it has been legalized or decriminalized for medical or recreational purposes in the state where you reside.”
Medical marijuana users in New York may not legally purchase or possess firearms. It is highly possible if a person goes to Canada, smokes a joint, is stopped at the border and charged with using marijuana, they can have their guns confiscated and never be able to own one again under the federal law.
This would make governor Cuomo very happy to have yet another reason to confiscate a citizen’s guns. We could expect him to be happy to sign that law. It would be a pleasure for him to be “tough on gun laws.” It might even be a campaign promise.
-30-
Tuesday, July 17, 2018
NICS Retailer Day
Maybe a few of the anti firearm politicians will attend and learn how the process actually works instead of blowing smoke how lax the firearms business is.
Better yet lets run politicians names through NICS and see who qualifies to posses a firearm. LOL
Regards BPB Licensed FFL 30+ years Veteran owned
Good Afternoon,
The FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Section is happy to announce our annual NICS Retailer Day. This year’s event will consist of two separate days, Monday, September 17, 2018 and Tuesday, September 18, 2018, in Kansas City, Missouri, at Bass Pro located at 18001 Bass Pro Drive, Independence, MO 64055.
Topics to be discussed include but are not limited to:
· A demonstration of a NICS background check being processed, including eligibility determinations.
· A presentation to discuss the unique situation experienced by both the NICS Section and the firearms industry in recent years, and what we have done to manage and mitigate a relentless wave of increased volume and demand.
· Immigrant and nonimmigrant information as related to the receipt or possession of a firearm.
· Updates provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
· Information about the NICS E-Check.
Due to the size of the venue, seating each day will be first come, first serve and will be limited to 80 seats. The material being covered on each day will be the same; therefore, attendees are only permitted to attend one day. Make your reservation(s) today by sending an e–mail to <NICS_EVENTS@FBI.GOV> with the names of all the attendees in your group, the best call back number, which date you will be attending, and your Federal Firearms License (FFL) number. Registration will close on September 7, 2018. This event is only open to FFLs and their employees.
We look forward to seeing you there!
The NICS Business Unit
Friday, May 18, 2018
New Trump Regs Would Alleviate Registration Costs for Gunsmiths, FFLs
New Trump Regs Would Alleviate Registration Costs for Gunsmiths, FFLs
President Donald Trump (Photo: Twitter)
A new proposed regulation announced this week by the Department of State could alleviate the massive annual registration fee that has for years kept small gunsmiths and FFLs out of business.
The regulatory amendment would transfer defense articles to the jurisdiction of the Department of Commerce if they are not inherently for military end use and are widely available in retail outlets. The change would remove the annual $2,250 fee required by the Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Control (DDTC), which the Obama administration imposed on gunsmiths who “manufacture” firearms and ammunition.
In 2012 the Obama administration stepped up enforcement of a regulation that required firearm and ammunition manufacturers to register with the DDTC under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Because they said that even small gunsmiths engage in activities that are regulated under the ITAR. Many of these small shops closed down because they couldn’t afford the annual registration fee along with compliance costs.
Now the Trump administration’s Department of State is looking to revise these regulations by transferring items currently listed in the United States Munitions List and controlled by the ITAR to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), which is controlled by the Department of Commerce. These items include non-automatic and semi-automatic firearms and ammunition, as well as their related parts and services. This is good news for gunsmiths because the Department of Commerce does not impose a registration requirement for the manufacture of controlled items and there is no annual fee.
SEE ALSO: GOP Lawmakers Pen Letter to Stop ITAR Gun Control Targeting Gunsmiths
Fully automatic weapons will remain under the ITAR, but so will suppressors, suppressor parts, and any related services. Magazines that have a capacity in excess of 50 rounds will also remain on the list, and companies that manufacture these accessories will be required to register under the ITAR.
The decision to retain these items in the USML seems to contradict the Department of State’s stated goal to “revise the U.S. Munitions List so that its scope is limited to those defense articles that provide the United States with a critical military or intelligence advantage or, in the case of weapons, are inherently for military end use.”
Suppressors and 50+ round magazines are not inherently for military use and are widely available in commercial retail stores throughout the United States. It is unclear why the Department of State would deregulate semi-automatic firearms but retain the burdensome registration fee for companies that manufacture suppressors and high-capacity magazines.
Interested parties may submit comments on the new regs by emailing: DDTCPublicComments@state.gov with the subject line, “ITAR Amendment – Categories I, II, and III.”
President Donald Trump (Photo: Twitter)
A new proposed regulation announced this week by the Department of State could alleviate the massive annual registration fee that has for years kept small gunsmiths and FFLs out of business.
The regulatory amendment would transfer defense articles to the jurisdiction of the Department of Commerce if they are not inherently for military end use and are widely available in retail outlets. The change would remove the annual $2,250 fee required by the Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Control (DDTC), which the Obama administration imposed on gunsmiths who “manufacture” firearms and ammunition.
In 2012 the Obama administration stepped up enforcement of a regulation that required firearm and ammunition manufacturers to register with the DDTC under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Because they said that even small gunsmiths engage in activities that are regulated under the ITAR. Many of these small shops closed down because they couldn’t afford the annual registration fee along with compliance costs.
Now the Trump administration’s Department of State is looking to revise these regulations by transferring items currently listed in the United States Munitions List and controlled by the ITAR to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), which is controlled by the Department of Commerce. These items include non-automatic and semi-automatic firearms and ammunition, as well as their related parts and services. This is good news for gunsmiths because the Department of Commerce does not impose a registration requirement for the manufacture of controlled items and there is no annual fee.
SEE ALSO: GOP Lawmakers Pen Letter to Stop ITAR Gun Control Targeting Gunsmiths
Fully automatic weapons will remain under the ITAR, but so will suppressors, suppressor parts, and any related services. Magazines that have a capacity in excess of 50 rounds will also remain on the list, and companies that manufacture these accessories will be required to register under the ITAR.
The decision to retain these items in the USML seems to contradict the Department of State’s stated goal to “revise the U.S. Munitions List so that its scope is limited to those defense articles that provide the United States with a critical military or intelligence advantage or, in the case of weapons, are inherently for military end use.”
Suppressors and 50+ round magazines are not inherently for military use and are widely available in commercial retail stores throughout the United States. It is unclear why the Department of State would deregulate semi-automatic firearms but retain the burdensome registration fee for companies that manufacture suppressors and high-capacity magazines.
Interested parties may submit comments on the new regs by emailing: DDTCPublicComments@state.gov with the subject line, “ITAR Amendment – Categories I, II, and III.”
Monday, May 7, 2018
WHAT IS FAIR IN THE JUSTICE SYSTEM? by Budd Schroeder
THE RIGHT SIDE
BY BUDD SCHROEDER
MAY 9, 2018
WHAT IS FAIR IN THE JUSTICE SYSTEM?
It is an old saying that our system of justice isn’t perfect, but it is better than any other. Some have said that there are different levels of justice and that “equal protection under the law” is not a reality. There are many opinions on both sides of the arguments.
We have often said that politics is all about power and money and it would be easy to place the same accusation about the current system of justice. This columnist is not a lawyer, so the commentary is strictly an opinion based on observation and evidence.
The laws in the United States are complex and there are many of them. The law libraries are filled with volumes of laws and decisions of trials to determine what is possible to accuse and how to defend against those charges. The more complex the laws, the more opportunities for abuse!
The average person has no idea of what most of the laws are and how they are enforced, but in spite of the fact that lawyers, and even judges, need to research laws in many cases, for the average Joe, ignorance of the law is no excuse.
A Russian member of the KGB was once quoted as saying; “show me the person, and I will find a law to convict him.” That seems to hold true even in America. We are watching how the complexities of the laws and the creative ways that power brokers use them, and that would confirm what the Russian said.
Going back to the level of perception of the laws, there is much controversy on enforcement of the laws. For decades, African Americans have claimed discrimination when it comes to law enforcement and how it appears to have a different standard involving them.
They talk about the arrests for “driving while black” and being stopped when they haven’t committed any violations, at least no violations, from their perspective. They claim that sentences for black people are more severe than for Caucasians convicted for the same crimes.
The laws also seem to favor the rich because they can hire the best lawyers. The case of O. J. Simpson would give credence to that opinion. Money is a big advantage when accused of a crime.
We are watching how the law can be used as a weapon when it comes to the bureaucrats and political operatives when they are on a quest to destroy President Donald Trump. What started as an investigation regarding collusion in the last election has turned into what many are now calling a “witch hunt.”
The laws are being used as a punishment without a crime. A local political operative has been vocal about how this has destroyed his life and his family. He has not been charged with any crime, but has been brought before the authorities as a witness for the “witch hunt.”
Anyone in that position should not agree to the questioning without hiring the services of a good attorney. However, the gentleman has gone broke with legal fees to the tune of about $125,000 without figuring time lost from work and transportation costs to DC to appear before the panel.
He has managed to get some support from citizens in “Go Fund Me” to recoup some of his losses, but many don’t have that kind of support for their losses.
When the bureaucracy or government calls for a witness or arrests a person accused of a crime, they are allowed to lie to extract information. Their lies are perfectly legal, but if the accused or witness lies to them, there can be charges of perjury which are difficult to deny or defend.
The odds greatly favor the government and it seems that every year, the legislators keep adding more laws that give the government more authority and takes more freedoms away from the citizens.
The issue of money is truly important when discussing the disparity of “equality” when it comes to legal proceedings. In New York, corruption cases draw special attention. Perhaps it is because in Albany, many consider it to be “business as usual” and the politicians have to really foul up before getting caught.
A couple of years ago two of the most powerful men in Albany, Sheldon Silver and Dean Skelos were tried and convicted for corruption. They were sentenced to jail terms, but a decision involving a Virginia politician made it possible for the convicted criminals to have a new trial.
A decision made by a judge in another state was enough for a team of sharp lawyers to delay the prison sentence. Hopefully, for the citizens of the state, the accused will be reconvicted and the sentence carried out. Even if serving time, the politicians will still receive their generous pensions. When politicians make laws, they really know how to take care of themselves.
So, in the last couple of years the citizens have seen the abuses of the system and that an accusation can have as much punishment, at least financially, as a conviction. It takes years to get a federal case heard which makes a mockery of “justice delayed is justice denied.”
However, during the delays, he lawyers are still getting “billable hours” and the accused are trying to figure out how to pay them. If you don’t have the money to pay, you don't get the necessary representation.
That is where the slogan of “we have the best laws that money can buy’ is said. The better the lawyer, the better the chance of winning! The less fortunate, without large resources, usually have to settle for a plea deal or face a maximum punishment.
Like in government, money doesn’t just talk. It yells! Unless the voters start screaming for better government and if the laws are not changed, they have to change the lawmakers. This is a good year and opportunity to do that. More ideas to follow.
-30-
BY BUDD SCHROEDER
MAY 9, 2018
WHAT IS FAIR IN THE JUSTICE SYSTEM?
It is an old saying that our system of justice isn’t perfect, but it is better than any other. Some have said that there are different levels of justice and that “equal protection under the law” is not a reality. There are many opinions on both sides of the arguments.
We have often said that politics is all about power and money and it would be easy to place the same accusation about the current system of justice. This columnist is not a lawyer, so the commentary is strictly an opinion based on observation and evidence.
The laws in the United States are complex and there are many of them. The law libraries are filled with volumes of laws and decisions of trials to determine what is possible to accuse and how to defend against those charges. The more complex the laws, the more opportunities for abuse!
The average person has no idea of what most of the laws are and how they are enforced, but in spite of the fact that lawyers, and even judges, need to research laws in many cases, for the average Joe, ignorance of the law is no excuse.
A Russian member of the KGB was once quoted as saying; “show me the person, and I will find a law to convict him.” That seems to hold true even in America. We are watching how the complexities of the laws and the creative ways that power brokers use them, and that would confirm what the Russian said.
Going back to the level of perception of the laws, there is much controversy on enforcement of the laws. For decades, African Americans have claimed discrimination when it comes to law enforcement and how it appears to have a different standard involving them.
They talk about the arrests for “driving while black” and being stopped when they haven’t committed any violations, at least no violations, from their perspective. They claim that sentences for black people are more severe than for Caucasians convicted for the same crimes.
The laws also seem to favor the rich because they can hire the best lawyers. The case of O. J. Simpson would give credence to that opinion. Money is a big advantage when accused of a crime.
We are watching how the law can be used as a weapon when it comes to the bureaucrats and political operatives when they are on a quest to destroy President Donald Trump. What started as an investigation regarding collusion in the last election has turned into what many are now calling a “witch hunt.”
The laws are being used as a punishment without a crime. A local political operative has been vocal about how this has destroyed his life and his family. He has not been charged with any crime, but has been brought before the authorities as a witness for the “witch hunt.”
Anyone in that position should not agree to the questioning without hiring the services of a good attorney. However, the gentleman has gone broke with legal fees to the tune of about $125,000 without figuring time lost from work and transportation costs to DC to appear before the panel.
He has managed to get some support from citizens in “Go Fund Me” to recoup some of his losses, but many don’t have that kind of support for their losses.
When the bureaucracy or government calls for a witness or arrests a person accused of a crime, they are allowed to lie to extract information. Their lies are perfectly legal, but if the accused or witness lies to them, there can be charges of perjury which are difficult to deny or defend.
The odds greatly favor the government and it seems that every year, the legislators keep adding more laws that give the government more authority and takes more freedoms away from the citizens.
The issue of money is truly important when discussing the disparity of “equality” when it comes to legal proceedings. In New York, corruption cases draw special attention. Perhaps it is because in Albany, many consider it to be “business as usual” and the politicians have to really foul up before getting caught.
A couple of years ago two of the most powerful men in Albany, Sheldon Silver and Dean Skelos were tried and convicted for corruption. They were sentenced to jail terms, but a decision involving a Virginia politician made it possible for the convicted criminals to have a new trial.
A decision made by a judge in another state was enough for a team of sharp lawyers to delay the prison sentence. Hopefully, for the citizens of the state, the accused will be reconvicted and the sentence carried out. Even if serving time, the politicians will still receive their generous pensions. When politicians make laws, they really know how to take care of themselves.
So, in the last couple of years the citizens have seen the abuses of the system and that an accusation can have as much punishment, at least financially, as a conviction. It takes years to get a federal case heard which makes a mockery of “justice delayed is justice denied.”
However, during the delays, he lawyers are still getting “billable hours” and the accused are trying to figure out how to pay them. If you don’t have the money to pay, you don't get the necessary representation.
That is where the slogan of “we have the best laws that money can buy’ is said. The better the lawyer, the better the chance of winning! The less fortunate, without large resources, usually have to settle for a plea deal or face a maximum punishment.
Like in government, money doesn’t just talk. It yells! Unless the voters start screaming for better government and if the laws are not changed, they have to change the lawmakers. This is a good year and opportunity to do that. More ideas to follow.
-30-
Friday, May 4, 2018
NRA Insurance Scuttled by NY Regulators
More BS~
NRA-Branded Insurance Program Is Unlawful, New York Regulators Say
Lockton fined $7 Million by Department of Financial Services
Company said in February it would end NRA brokerage service
A National Rifle Association-branded insurance program unlawfully provided liability coverage to gun owners in the event they were charged with a crime involving their firearms, according to New York state regulators.
Lockton Cos., which administered the insurance, and an affiliate were fined $7 million by New York’s Department of Financial Services and will no longer participate in the NRA’s “Carry Guard” program in the state of New York, the agency said in a statement Wednesday.
Lockton said it will continue to cooperate with regulators. The company announced after the Parkland, Florida, school shooting in February that it would stop providing brokerage services for all NRA-endorsed insurance programs.
“It is our responsibility to ensure we are fully compliant,” company spokesman Dean Davison said in an emailed statement. “We believe this settlement is the best way to resolve these issues.”
The NRA acted appropriately at all times and relied on Lockton and its assurances that the program complied with state regulations, according to William Brewer, a lawyer for the NRA.
Firearms Insurance
The group advertises Carry Guard as the nation’s “most complete self-defense membership program” on its website, referring to Lockton’s plan as “comprehensive personal firearms liability insurance.” Regulators said the insurance unlawfully offered protection for certain acts of intentional wrongdoing and improperly provided coverage for acts of self defense. Gun control advocates have criticized the program, referring to it as “murder insurance.”
Lockton issued 680 Carry Guard policies to New York residents between April and November of last year, the DFS determined. Between 2000 and March 2018, Lockton and the NRA offered at least 11 other insurance programs. The company collected $12 million in premiums and $785,460 in administrative fees related to these programs during that time, according to the DFS.
An investigation by the DFS found the program was actively advertised in New York by the NRA both online and through traditional mail. The firearms lobby doesn’t have a license to conduct insurance business in New York, according to the DFS, which oversees insurers and banks chartered in the state.
“Today’s action is part of the Department’s continuing investigation into this matter to uphold and preserve the integrity of New York law,” Financial Services Superintendent Maria Vullo said in the DFS statement.
The NRA said it will continue to cooperate with DFS.
U.S. judge approves gun maker Remington's bankruptcy plan
NEW YORK (Reuters) - Weapons manufacturer Remington Outdoor Company Inc won approval for its bankruptcy plan on Wednesday, paving the way for the company to slash debt, boost its cash position and better weather the uncertain climate for firearms in the United States.
Remington filed for bankruptcy in March with a deal in hand to cut its debt by about $775 million, a little more than one month after a school shooting in Parkland, Florida.
The shooting sparked protests and a wave of retailers and corporations to limit sales and transactions relating to firearms. Mass discounter Walmart Inc (WMT.N), which Remington is reliant on for sales, said it would stop selling guns to people under 21 years old.
Remington will exit bankruptcy as soon as this month, with some of its creditors, including JPMorgan Chase & Co(JPM.N) and Franklin Advisors, taking ownership stakes in the company in exchange for forgiving debt. Cerberus Capital Management L.P., Remington’s current private equity owner, will give up its equity in the restructuring.
The company confirmed in a statement that its expects to emerge from bankruptcy before the end of May.
Remington will then have a new Asset Based Loan (ABL) facility of $193 million, the proceeds of which will refinance the existing ABL facility in full.
“I’m satisfied there’s sufficient creditor support to win confirmation,” Judge Brendan Shannon said in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. Remington filed a so-called pre-packaged bankruptcy, meaning it had largely won the support of its creditors before it filed in court.
Walmart Inc85.62
WMT.NNEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE
-0.72(-0.83%)
· WMT.N
· JPM.N
Remington’s creditor committee, composed of a representative for its pension and plaintiffs in cases against the company for gun injuries and deaths, supported the bankruptcy plan, an attorney for the group told Shannon.
“I want to especially thank our dedicated employees spread across the United States that have remained focused on Remington throughout this process” said Chief Executive Anthony Acitelli.
The company’s bankruptcy plan allows for lawsuits against it to continue, including one filed by the families of the victims of the Sandy Hook, Connecticut, school shooting. One of its rifles was used in the 2012 shooting.
Gun sales fell after President Donald Trump was elected because firearm enthusiasts were no longer worried about increased regulation. That dynamic led in part to Remington’s bankruptcy filing.
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