Horry County could consider becoming a ‘Second Amendment Sanctuary’ at upcoming meeting
Horry County Council could join other governments across the country in taking the next step toward becoming a “Second Amendment Sanctuary.”
County Chair Johnny Gardner said the public safety committee could discuss the matter at an upcoming meeting. The next meeting is scheduled for Jan. 27.
Members of the public safety committee are responsible for screening and refining potential ordinances before they’re submitted to the entire council.
The term “Second Amendment Sanctuary” comes as a result of proposed legislation in Virginia that aimed to tighten gun control laws. Governments across the United States have voted to resist or not enforce any gun regulations claiming such rules violate the Constitution.
Council Member Al Allen wants be proactive and show the people that their leaders care about their right to own a firearm. While local laws cannot supersede state and federal law, he wants to see an ordinance passed to give “teeth” to Horry County’s stance.
An online petition is asking residents to urge local leaders to pass a resolution designating the county as a sanctuary. It has over 200 signatures so far and Gardner has heard from constituents directly.
“It seems to be important to a lot of people, so it’s important to me,” Gardner said. “I’m all for the Second Amendment.”
Council Member Tyler Servant has seen overwhelming public support for a Second Amendment Sanctuary resolution.
“Based on the feedback I’ve received I think it is definitely something we should move forward with and the public safety committee is the place to start,” he said.
Gardner supports becoming a Second Amendment Sanctuary, but he wants to hear from public safety and legal experts to make sure everyone is on the same page when it comes to passing this resolution.
This story was originally published January 17, 2020 at 2:34 PM.
