Bills that gun rights activists support, and bills that gun-control advocates favor, are all on the agenda at a Minnesota Senate field hearing tomorrow afternoon (Tues 1pm) in Hibbing — although no votes will be taken. Senate Republican Majority Leader Paul Gazelka says he wanted the hearing where people in Greater Minnesota can have more of a voice. Gazelka says, “Typically they’re always in Minneapolis-Saint Paul and you have a much higher number of people from Minneapolis-Saint Paul — but what do the people in outstate think as well?”
Lawmakers will get public input on universal background checks and a “red flag” law, and on “stand your ground” legislation which would change Minnesota’s self-defense laws. There are also bills to increase penalties for illegal transfers of firearms, and to toughen sentences for felons who are caught with guns.