From WCYB tv Bristol, Va
Ahead 2020 General Assembly, SWVA gun advocates plan to mobilize and gun sales are up
SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA (WCYB) — Gun rights advocates plan to fill at least one bus and head to Richmond for Lobby Day on Jan. 20.
Organizer Roman Blevins said mobilizing is a way to give a voice to Southwest Virginians. He referred to Second Amendment issues as the catalyst for organizing the day trip.
It's happening on the heels of the Democrat-led legislation pushing for universal background checks, raising the age to buy and own a firearm from 18 to 21 and banning assault firearms and magazines with more than 10 rounds of ammunition.
"We are going to meet with the legislators who have proposed these bills and we want to talk to them. We want to introduce ourselves. We want to keep a very professional, very friendly, open conversation. I think a lot of things can change with face-to-face conversations," said Blevins.
As a symbolic opposition to the bills, more than 100 Virginia localities have become Second Amendment sanctuaries.
Meanwhile, gun sales have shot up 35 to 45 percent at one gun store in Abingdon.
Employee Josh Petry said Christmas is usually a busy time of year, but he has noticed extra concern among some customers.
"I think people are a little scared and nervous of what the governor is proposing and some of the legislation that's already been filed early," said Petry.
"The new proposed gun laws have really awakened a lot of people who didn't really play attention to politics before," Blevins added.
General assembly members will discuss the proposed gun laws early as Jan. 8 when they convene.
If you're interested in joining the Lobby Day trip, you are encouraged to email romanblevins@gmail.com.
https://wcyb.com/news/local/ahead-2020-general-assembly-swva-gun-advocates-plan-to-mobilize-and-gun-sales-are-up