Recently, leaders in Effingham County adopted a resolution that declares it a sanctuary for gun owners, leading to big reactions from people in the community, including one board member.
The county board passed the resolution in an 8-1 vote as a means of not restricting the Second Amendment.
And as always, this loaded topic brings with it a great deal of controversy, both from those who believe that guns are making our country more dangerous and those who believe that possession of guns should not be limited more than it currently is.
Among the skeptics of the measure is Karen Luchtefeld, a county board member who said the sheriff, Dave Mahon, would consult the state's attorney if the resolution passed to see what action should be taken.
"I do not believe it is necessary to provide sanctuary for gun owners," Luchtefeld told East Central Reporter. "I am not against the Second Amendment. I am against the insane disregard for common-sense gun regulation. My favorite part of the Second Amendment is where it says 'well regulated.'"
Luchtefeld pointed to the recent bans on assault weapons and their connection to lower mass shooting, such as the 1994 assault-weapon ban when deaths due to mass shooting fell by 45 percent.
"The 2005-assault weapon ban expired and half of all mass killings in the U.S. have occurred since 2005," Luchtefeld said. "I believe this is a token support for (President Donald) Trump."
Luchtefeld said she did not believe this resolution would do anything to provide more safety for families or benefits for businesses.
"This is a distraction to take focus away from the poor performance and unkept campaign promises of the Republican Party," Luchtefeld said.
Alerts Sign-up