The reason why he is on their side is straightforward. The state legislature of Georgia, its General Assembly, long ago passed a bill that was signed into law that forbids local governments from placing restrictions on firearms. That power is reserved to the state government only.
Savannah ignored that law and created its own regulation, which it is enforcing by having the city's police department issue fines and citations. As such, and as is increasingly normal for Democratic strongholds in red states, it is in open defiance of the state government. Unlike states vis-a-vis the Federal government, local governments are creatures of the state. They have no powers that are not granted by the legislature, and no sort of sovereignty of their own.
Nevertheless these localities are willing to court such lawsuits, as they only cost taxpayer money and might for a while allow them to get their way. If they ever manage to swing the state government, as has happened in Virginia, they'll change all the state laws to ensure they never lose again; but until then, this will have to do.
Grim said
ReplyDelete"Nevertheless these localities are willing to court such lawsuits, as they only cost taxpayer money and might for a while allow them to get their way."
And there is the problem endemic in our society - no consequences for illegal acts by the connected, political or corporate.
Apparently the FBI just got hit with one million dollar judgement for violating an anti abortion protesters rights. Breaking down his door with weapons drawn, etc. BFD. Did anyone actually get thrown in jail? No? Then who cares, it is just taxpayer money.