Ease gun control law — Rota Municipal Council

Rota municipal officials have added their voice in support of legislation amending the gun control law in the CNMI in a bid to encourage establishment of “shooting resorts” on the islands, saying it will provide much-needed boost to their economy.

The municipal council, chaired by Abraham M. Ogo, has adopted a resolution endorsing HB 12-212 to the Senate Committee on Resources, Economic Development and Programs which is reviewing the proposal.

They emphasized enough safety net is incorporated into the measure to prevent any harm to the public, contrary to what its opponents have said due to fear of potential proliferation of dangerous weapons here.

“The CNMI need not wait for outsiders to boost our economy. We can, through bills like HB 12-212, do much to help ourselves,” the three-member council wrote to REDP chair Senate Floor Leader Pete P. Reyes.

“Rota lags far behind other CNMI islands in economic development and new business enterprise. We need to open the door to these large ‘shooting resorts’ in order to provide jobs for our jobless and opportunities for our young people,” they said.

“We particularly fear the loss of our young people. They will leave their island home if there are not jobs for them,” added the council.

The resolution and a separate testimony are expected to be presented today during a public hearing scheduled by the Senate committee on Rota. Other town meetings are set next week on Tinian and Saipan.

Sponsored by House Floor Leader Oscar M. Babauta, HB 12-212 has divided the community on whether its economic benefits far outweigh public safety concerns.

If it becomes law, the measure will permit patrons of these proposed shooting resorts to carry high-caliber handguns and rifles within their premises, which are prohibited under the current Weapons Control Act.

Rota has led the support for it in the wake of report that Mayor Benjamin T. Manglona and other island officials have begun talks with potential investors on this type of resorts.

“Strict regulations can guarantee that ‘shooting resorts’ operate with absolutely no added danger to the community. Further, the bill will not increase the costs of government. The investor will be required to relieve enforcement agencies from all added administrative costs,” said the council.

Aside from Mr. Ogo, the council is comprised Vice Chair Kevin T. Atalig and Secretary Jose M. Rosario. (BS)