House Bill 61 is the first major law to take effect protecting Second Amendment rights in Alaska since the “Stand Your Ground” statute was enacted in 2013.
With egregious government actions during the COVID-19 pandemic in mind, the law prohibits state and local authorities from attacking the rights of gun owners and businesses during a state of emergency. It was not that long ago when misguided politicians and bureaucrats closed legal weapons businesses.
Also restricted was the access of gun owners to weapons, ammunition and essential parts.
Not only does the new law protect the rights of gun owners, it provides them with legal recourse if those rights are infringed upon.
As many critics in Alaska correctly noted, emergency situations are the exact times when many violent criminals attempt to take advantage of the unusual circumstances. It was just three years ago when innocent victims were targeted during the COVID lockdowns, and looting and robberies were commonplace.
These are the times when the National Guard and other defensive units are activated — to protect law-abiding citizens in emergencies. Does it make sense to deprive these same citizens of their ability to protect themselves?
Of course not.
These emergency periods are exactly when access to Second Amendment-protected self-defense is most critical. It is a great step forward for Alaskans to have their individual liberties encoded in state law.
As NRA Alaska State Director Aoibheann Cline declared, “This bill is not just legislation; it’s a protective shield for our fundamental rights during states of emergency, reinforcing the core principles of the Second Amendment we deeply respect and uphold. Today is indeed a great victory for all freedom-loving Alaskans.”
