Haley Stevens: “the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act is an important piece of legislation that will address the growing problem…”

“the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act is an important piece of legislation that will address the growing problem of junk lawsuits filed with the intention of driving the firearms industry out of business. I thank Senator Craig and Senator Burns for their efforts to ensure this legislation is addressed and moved through Congress. This act does not curtail the legal rights of victims who suffer injuries from the actions of firearm or ammunition manufacturers. The purpose of this legislation is to prevent the multiple lawsuits that have materialized which name the firearms and ammunition industries as defendants and attempt to hold these industries liable for the criminal acts of a third party. These frivolous lawsuits target the legitimate firearm and ammunition industries in attempts to destroy these industries. If firearm and ammunition manufacturers were forced to pay for the criminal acts of third parties, the concept of fairness would be eliminated. The impact of these suits would also affect this country economically and socially. Any limitation of one's constitutional right to bear arms is not acceptable. The destruction of the firearms and ammunition industries would cause many Americans to lose their jobs. In addition, if the firearms and ammunition industries were destroyed, the right to lawfully bear arms may be curtailed. Many Alaskans depend upon the right to bear firearms for subsistence purposes as well as for self-defense.”