Email from Supervisor Pat Bates

[High Country]

Thank you for your feedback regarding last Tuesday’s Board of Supervisor’s discussion on Carry Conceal Weapon (CCW) permits.
Communications received in my office prior to Tuesday’s meeting and public comment given at the meeting provided compelling evidence that the current CCW policy is too restrictive. As a long-time advocate for gun-rights, with a record of fighting against restrictions on gun ownership for law-abiding citizens while in the California Legislature, the “new” CCW policy is also troubling to me on many levels.
The Sheriff's current policy and good cause standard is unclear and has caused great confusion. It is for this reason that I supported a Board Resolution expressing our position on CCW permits. Although the Board Resolution cannot direct the Sheriff to implement a new policy, my hope is that the Sheriff will better understand the will of Orange County citizens who, in great numbers, have contacted the Board and expressed their frustration with the revocation of and restrictions on CCWs.
I have great concern regarding the negative impact a revocation will have on the records of individuals currently holding permits. To that end, I will be seeking the support of my Board colleagues to request that the Department of Justice/Attorney General ensure there is absolute clarity on the record of any such revocations that they occurred due to a policy change and not due to a physical or mental condition or criminal behavior on the part of the permit holder.
As this goes forward, I will continue to encourage the Sheriff to implement a CCW policy that is transparent and recognizes the right of a citizen to provide for their own defense.
Thank you again for sharing your views on this matter. Please continue to share your input.

Sincerely,
Patricia C. Bates



From: [mailto:highc@verizon.net]
Sent: Monday, November 17, 2008 7:28 AM
To: Pat Bates
Subject: CCW Licenses

Dear Supervisor Bates

On the agenda for the next supervisors meeting is the question of the issuance, and the criteria for the issuance of licenses for concealed carry of weapons. I strongly urge you to support the issuance of CCW licenses and the continuation of reasonable requirements (background checks, proficiency, and competency standards).
It must be remembered that I already have the right to keep and bear arms in my home, It is my frequent activities in rural environments, and the nearly complete lack of law enforcement in those areas that cause me my greatest concern.
I wish to remain a law abiding citizen and I am hopeful that the Orange County Board of Supervisors can avoid the political posturing; establish a reasonable set of guidelines for the issuance of CCW’s, and convey those guidelines to our new sheriff.
When you provide the opportunity for citizens to comply with reasonable criteria, they can, and will remain law abiding citizens. To do otherwise forces a decision upon the citizen that does nothing to support law enforcement or good government.

Thank You


Orange County Resident