Max Baucus: “I have today asked my colleagues to support the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act. This important legislation…”

“I have today asked my colleagues to support the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act. This important legislation has strong support from both sides of the aisle with more than 50 cosponsors on the original bill, S. 659. I am proud to be an original cosponsor of the bill. I thank my dear friend and colleague from Idaho, Senator Larry Craig, for his leadership. He has done yeoman's work on this bill in the drafting, introduction, and shepherding of this bill as it passes on the Senate floor. The legislation in question will correct a significant injustice that threatens the viability of a lawful United States industry, the firearms industry. An increasing number of lawsuits are being filed against the firearms industry seeking damages for wrongs committed by not them but by third persons who misuse the industry's products. These lawsuits seek to impose liability on lawful businesses for the actions of people the industry has absolutely no control over. When one stops to think about it, it is really outrageous. Businesses that comply with all applicable Federal and State laws and that produce a product fit for an intended lawful purpose, including elk and duck hunting, target shooting and personal protection, should not be subject to frivolous lawsuits that have only one goal; that is, to put them out of business. It is an outrage. Montanans particularly are proud of their independence and their outdoor heritage. We are an outdoor people.…”