Maryland Dems Urge Hogan To Shut Down Gun Shops During Pandemic

MARYLAND — A large group of Maryland Democratic lawmakers called on Thursday for Gov. Larry Hogan (R) to shut down the state's gun stores during the coronavirus pandemic.

In a letter to Hogan, 58 state delegates and senators said firearms establishments do not provide essential services to the public and should not operate alongside pharmacies, grocery stores, and other businesses critical to the state's supply chain.

The letter was spearheaded by Del. Vanessa Atterbeary (D-Howard) and signed by a number of lawmakers, including Del. Al Carr (D-Montgomery), Sen. Jim Rosapepe (D-Prince George's), Del. Lisa Belcastro (D-Baltimore), and Sen. Sarah Elfreth (D- Anne Arundel).

"Guns are not essential to solving this pandemic, nor will they make people safer," the letter said. "At this time, guns are only hurting vulnerable populations - victims of domestic violence and individuals already prone to suicide are most at risk. Marylanders are home, tensions are high, every Marylander is eager to save lives; however, gun stores remain open creating fear for our most vulnerable citizens."

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Under recently revised federal guidelines, gun and ammunition retailers are considered essential businesses. But since these guidelines are advisory, states can choose whether they want to shut down certain industries.

"(Y)ou have the ability to close these stores," the letter continued. "Should you choose not to close gun stores, in light of the recent directive from the federal Department of Homeland Security, we ask that you join our neighboring states and require an appointment during limited business hours, for individuals who choose to purchase guns at this time."

Members of the Maryland House Republican Caucus sent a letter to Hogan in response, saying that guns aren't just an essential service, but an "essential human right."

"Protecting oneself and family is not just an essential service, it is an essential human right. Our colleagues not only fail to acknowledge this, they also fail to acknowledge the fact that in many communities a firearm is necessary not simply to protect oneself, but also to provide food for their families," the letter said.

At a press conference Friday, Hogan said he did not read the letters.

"It just hasn't been on the top of my priority list," Hogan said, according to Maryland Matters.

SEE ALSO:

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