Thank you for writing, and apologies for my slow response. Crossover week is a busy one, and I'm just getting caught up on correspondence.
I imagine you've heard by now that HB961 passed on the House floor this week. I know you didn't support the bill, so I wanted to take some time to explain why I did.
I understand that this bill isn't universally popular, but I believe it's a step worth pursuing as our nation struggles to reduce mass shootings. Federal courts have repeatedly held that these restrictions are constitutional and allow lawful gun owners to maintain their rights to firearms for both sport and self-defense. Many of my House colleagues who've served in the armed forces have made compelling arguments that the high-capacity firearms regulated by HB961 are not appropriate for widespread civilian use. I respect and trust their judgment.
I know this wasn't your preferred outcome, but I hope you'll feel free to write again with any future questions or concerns. I always appreciate hearing from constituents. The General Assembly handles hundreds of bills each year on a wide range of issues, and I imagine there are other views we likely share.
All the best,
Sally
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And of course my reply
======================================
Sally,
You were, and of course, are, free to vote as you see fit.
Please understand that I am free to vote as I see fit and I will do everything in my power to see you never get elected to any office in the state of Virginia again.
Sincerely,
---
The Office of Delegate Sally Hudson
Virginia House District 57
I imagine you've heard by now that HB961 passed on the House floor this week. I know you didn't support the bill, so I wanted to take some time to explain why I did.
I understand that this bill isn't universally popular, but I believe it's a step worth pursuing as our nation struggles to reduce mass shootings. Federal courts have repeatedly held that these restrictions are constitutional and allow lawful gun owners to maintain their rights to firearms for both sport and self-defense. Many of my House colleagues who've served in the armed forces have made compelling arguments that the high-capacity firearms regulated by HB961 are not appropriate for widespread civilian use. I respect and trust their judgment.
I know this wasn't your preferred outcome, but I hope you'll feel free to write again with any future questions or concerns. I always appreciate hearing from constituents. The General Assembly handles hundreds of bills each year on a wide range of issues, and I imagine there are other views we likely share.
All the best,
Sally
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
And of course my reply
======================================
Sally,
You were, and of course, are, free to vote as you see fit.
Please understand that I am free to vote as I see fit and I will do everything in my power to see you never get elected to any office in the state of Virginia again.
Sincerely,
---
The Office of Delegate Sally Hudson
Virginia House District 57