Letter to the Editor: Questioning Sen. Bradley’s Stand Your Ground bill

After reading that state senators Rob Bradley and Greg Steube were sponsoring legislation to expand “Stand your Ground” defenses (Bradley) and open carry opportunities (Steube), I wrote to these legislators to express my concern about the disturbing incidents of gun violence. Bradley never responded to my email. Steube sent an email defending his “passion” for gun rights, stating that existing regulations adequately protected the public from the use of guns by those who might pose a threat to public safety.

I do not know what concerned citizens can do to counter the distorted values of those who glorify second amendment rights while dismissing concerns for public safety. The recent Ft. Lauderdale massacre should dispel the myth that current regulations are adequate to keep guns out of the hands of those who should not have access to firearms.

Following is the text of my message to state senators Rob Bradley and Greg Steube, written December 31, 2016.

Greg and Rob,

If you’ve been on the road lately, you should have had some pretty jarring experiences with drivers who have anger management issues, overcharged aggression or a disregard for the consequences of reckless driving. They speed while promiscuously switching lanes, cut off their fellow drivers, and ride your bumper. These same folks, who endanger public safety on the roads, may also possess firearms.

And now the Florida Senate is considering legislation that expands gun “rights” with regard to concealed carry opportunities and stand your ground defenses.

I’m married to a NRA life member and understand his support for the second amendment as a right of self defense. But, what I don’t understand is the lack of concern for my personal safety, which is endangered when folks with impulse control issues, unhealthy aggressive impulses and poor judgment are armed.

Until there are laws that restrict gun ownership to only those who are psychologically fit and skilled in the use of guns, I strongly urge you NOT to support legislation that expands access to and use of guns. There’s enough stress in life. Please don’t compound it by making me feel unsafe when I encounter someone who appears to be psychologically unbalanced or too ready to take offense.

Elaine T. Weistock

Fleming Island