Under pressure from NRA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is "reconsidering" a ban on the possession of firearms in the trailer parks providing homes for hundreds of families left homeless by hurricane Katrina.
As the experience on the streets of New Orleans showed us, there is a demonstrable need to protect life and family after a disaster. Yet, according to an October 12, Associated Press article, FEMA has had a general policy for several years to prohibit guns at such parks anywhere in the country.
The AP also reported that FEMA spokesman Butch Kinerney said that they were "trying to figure out who wrote the rules and what the intent was." The result, however, is clear--600 families were deprived of the option of keeping a firearm for self-defense.
NRA Executive Vice President Wayne LaPierre threatened legal and legislative action against FEMA, which is already facing Congressional scrutiny for its mismanagement of the government response to hurricane Katrina.
"Whether it's a national disaster, a flu pandemic, or an earthquake, the Constitution can't be thrown out the window," said LaPierre.
We still need to hear from members who have been a victim of gun confiscation in Louisiana. If you have personally had a gun confiscated in Louisiana since Hurricane Katrina hit, please call (888) 414-6333. Be prepared to leave only your name and immediate contact information so we can get back to you. Once again, we are seeking contact information from actual victims of gun confiscation in Louisiana only.
If you would like to contribute to our legal and legislative efforts in Louisiana, please go to secure.nraila.org/Contribute.aspx. For additional information, please visit www.NRAILA.org, or e-mail us at [email protected].