DPS recommends strict control of weapons

Public Safety Commissioner Charles W. Ingram Jr., yesterday recommended strict control to ensure security of firearms and ammunition coming into and leaving the CNMI in the proposed measure amending the Weapons Control Act.

Mr. Ingram proposed that compliance and inspection be made by the Department of Public Safety. “They should be able to make unannounced compliance inspections at reasonable times,” he said in a letter to Sen. Pete P. Reyes, Chair of the Committee on Resources, Economic Development and Programs.

HB 12-212 aims to entice major developers of shooting resorts which offer target ranges for rifle competition and skeet shooting with the use of shotguns. The measure which already passed in the House of Representatives is now awaiting action in the Senate.

While not exactly opposing the passage of HB 12-212, Mr. Ingram suggested the imposition of rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the public. Aside from the impending rules and regulations to be promulgated after enactment, he said the legislature must provide more stringent laws and harsh penalties for any and all violations of the Weapons Control Act.

Mr. Ingram said the tracking of firearms and ammunition can be done through a federal firearms licensed dealer, who be federal law must comply with stringent recording requirements.

Firearms that would come into the CNMI will be held by Customs until a firearms licensed dealer comes with documentation for the weapons. After the dealer picks up the weapons, the individual or corporation has 72 hours to pay the licensing fee.

When the firearm is brought out of the CNMI, then it will be handled by a federal firearms licensee dealer who will report this to DPS within 72 hours.

The resort, Mr. Ingram said, shall prepare, maintain and provide inventories to DPS inclusive of all ammunitions, firearms and personnel assignment schedule on a weekly basis and upon demand by the department.

Staff or employees of the resort must have no criminal record and pass the mandatory drug screening prior to and during employment to be incurred by the resort/investor.

DPS shall institute a review board for all appeals to revocations of shooting resort licenses and range master certifications for reasons other than criminal violations or mandatory drug testing. (Lindablue F. Romero)