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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2021 - 2022
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | August 18, 2022 12:26 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Kristine C. Howard and Rep. Christopher M. Rabb |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Prohibiting Concealed Carry While Intoxicated |
| Most of us would agree that United States soldiers are among the best trained and most disciplined of all firearm operators. Even still, the Department of Defense forbids soldiers from carrying firearms on base when intoxicated. Because the Department has realized a simple truth: firearms and alcohol, when used together, greatly increase the risk of tragedy, no matter how trained or careful a person is. Furthermore, at least 30 states have recognized the essential wisdom of the Department of Defense’s prohibition and enacted statutes banning the carrying of a weapon while under the influence of alcohol, including our neighbors of Ohio and Maryland. However, Pennsylvania has not.
Our bill aims to protect our Commonwealth’s responsible firearm users and their loved ones from potentially deadly incidents by adding blood alcohol content limits for concealed carry. Under this measure, individuals carrying a firearm with a blood alcohol content of .08% or greater would commit a summary offense, with a $100 fine and suspension of their concealed carry permit for up to three years. A second or subsequent offense would result in a misdemeanor of the third degree, a $500 fine, and a license suspension of at least three years, with the possibility of permanent permit revocation.
With that said, firearms can be, and too often are, deadly weapons. When used under the influence of alcohol by irresponsible persons, they can easily lead to tragic outcomes, including the death of the bearer’s loved ones.
To that end, please join us in co-sponsoring this important, commonsense bill to help keep our Commonwealth safe. |
Introduced as HB2793