Rex Scott Urges Public: Don’t Trust Politicians Aligned with Gun Lobby

Rex Scott represents District 1 on the Pima County Board of Supervisors.

During the recent Pima County Board of Supervisors meeting, a survivor of the 2017 Las Vegas mass shooting relived her harrowing experience. The catastrophic event left 60 dead and 413 wounded, including this local resident. Her vivid recounting of the tragedy underscored her disbelief at the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to invalidate a federal regulation banning bump stocks. The shooter had used this device to increase the firing rate of his weapon.

The Supreme Court’s ruling marked yet another setback for sensible gun reform measures. This sentiment resonated strongly with Arizonans, who have witnessed minimal legislative action to curb the rising toll of gun violence.

The Arizona Legislature has compounded the issue, making it nearly impossible for local governments to implement measures to combat gun violence. A pre-emption statute, ARS 13-3108, driven by the National Rifle Association, prevents local governments from enacting regulations stricter than state laws. This statute stymies counties, the public health authorities, from addressing gun safety as a health and safety concern.

In response, the Pima County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution urging legislators to repeal the statute. Representative Nancy Gutierrez introduced a bill to that effect, but legislative leaders blocked it from committee hearings. The Board’s resolution also mentions potential legal action against the state over the statute’s constitutionality, and discussions with the Pima County Attorney’s Office are ongoing.

Meanwhile, the Board passed an ordinance mandating that any lost or stolen gun be reported to law enforcement within a specified timeframe. This measure aims to tackle “straw purchases,” where guns reported as lost or stolen are sold to individuals prohibited by law from owning firearms. Prohibited possessors in Arizona include convicted felons, those on probation for domestic violence, and undocumented immigrants.

Law-abiding gun owners should not fear this ordinance; it targets illegal activities designed to arm prohibited possessors, the perpetrators of many local crimes. Nevertheless, some legislators, including Senator Justine Wadsack, have called for the ordinance’s repeal, arguing it infringes on state law and Second Amendment rights. The Goldwater Institute is also challenging the ordinance in court.

The public mandate requires pragmatic and urgent action on gun safety. Addressing this issue should transcend partisanship. Notably, the bump stock ban emerged during the Trump administration. Moreover, the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act of 2022 extended background checks and provided states with resources to implement “red flag” laws, keeping firearms from those posing threats.

In Arizona, gun lobby interests often overshadow public safety concerns. Pima County will persist in advocating for its right to ensure gun safety and reduce violence. As elections approach, voters should scrutinize candidates’ positions and records on these critical issues. It is paramount to hold accountable those who prioritize the gun lobby over public safety.