Streamlined ‘Weapons of War’ Initiative Gains Momentum

In Arizona, a legislative push has been made regarding the possession of various firearms. As it currently stands, residents looking to own items like pipe bombs and hand grenades will need to rely on automatic weapons and silencers instead.

On February 12, Rep. Alexander Kolodin addressed the House Judiciary Committee, advocating for legislation that removes restrictions on self-defense mechanisms. He argued against state limits on firearms, including those he described as “weapons of war.”

Kolodin acknowledged that his measure, HCR 2037, would not make it legal for residents to possess items such as rockets or improvised explosive devices, which remain illegal under federal law. He emphasized that the state should not assist in enforcing federal restrictions with its own laws.

The Arizona Constitution, Kolodin noted, provides even broader rights to bear arms than the Second Amendment. However, the fate of his bill changed when Rep. Quang Nguyen, committee chair, removed significant provisions from the proposal, leaving only those legal under federal law.

When asked to explain this adjustment, Nguyen simply said, “Nope.”

Though initially hesitant, Kolodin accepted the changes. He argued that a partial victory allowing Arizonians to own items permitted by federal law is preferable to a complete failure.

Among the items Kolodin mentioned was the ownership of silencers, which are regulated but not banned under the National Firearms Act. Under HCR 2037, Arizona’s prohibition on such devices would be removed if voters approve the measure.

The proposed legislation would also alter state laws related to automatic firearms and certain firearm lengths, aligning them more closely with federal guidelines.

Despite these changes, Kolodin expressed that the modified bill falls short of his original vision. He believes that if citizens’ rights to bear arms are to be honored, there should be no categories of weapons deemed prohibited.

Kolodin further emphasized his belief that the framers of the Constitution intended for citizens to possess “weapons of war” to keep government power in check. His argument takes on personal significance due to his background.

“Historically, a lot of people haven’t cared for us Jews and, in fact, tried to kill us,” Kolodin stated. He highlighted the responsibilities of individuals to protect themselves in the absence of government assurance.

As he concluded, Kolodin asserted, “It’s time for the state to get out of the way.” Despite the amendments, he viewed the progress toward easing restrictions on firearms as a significant achievement.

The committee ultimately approved the amended bill with a vote of 6-3, although all three Democrats opposed it. Now, the legislation awaits the approval of the full Senate.