Legislature(1993 - 1994)
01/22/1994 08:00 AM House STA
| Audio | Topic |
|---|
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
HOUSE STATE AFFAIRS STANDING COMMITTEE
January 22, 1994
8:00 a.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Representative Al Vezey, Chairman
Representative Pete Kott, Vice Chairman
Representative Gary Davis
Representative Harley Olberg
MEMBERS ABSENT
Representative Bettye Davis
Representative Jerry Sanders
Representative Fran Ulmer
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
*HB 328: "An Act relating to motor vehicle registration and
registration fees; to fees for drivers' licenses
and permits; and providing for an effective date."
HEARD AND HELD TO TIME UNCERTAIN
*HB 351: "An Act relating to the issuance of permits for
the carrying of a concealed weapon."
HEARD AND RESCHEDULED FOR FEBRUARY 5, 1994
(* First Public Hearing)
WITNESS REGISTER
REPRESENTATIVE TERRY MARTIN
Alaska State Legislature
State Capitol Building, Rm. 411
Juneau, AK 99811
Phone: 465-3783
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 328.
RON KING
410 Willoughby Ave.
Juneau, AK 99801
Phone: 465-5100
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 328.
JOE SCHOENER
891 Ridgetop Rd.
North Pole, AK 99705
Phone: 488-6926
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 328 and HB 351
from North Pole teleconference.
LADD MCBRIDE
P.O. Box 83567
Fairbanks, AK 99708
Phone: 479-8096
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 328 and
HB 351 from Fairbanks teleconference.
JAY DULANY, Director
Division of Motor Vehicles
Department of Public Safety
5700 E. Tudor Rd.
Anchorage, AK 99507
Phone: 269-5559
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 328 from
Anchorage teleconference.
GENE DUSEK, Budget Director
Municipality of Anchorage
P.O. Box 196650
Anchorage, AK 99519
Phone: 343-4490
Position Statement: Testified in opposition to HB 328 from
Anchorage teleconference.
FRANK DILLON
Alaska Trucking Association
3443 Minnesota Dr.
Anchorage, AK 99503
Phone: 276-1149
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 328 from
Anchorage teleconference.
MARK GORDON
HC01 6131 AB
Palmer, AK 99645
Phone: 745-5520
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 328 and HB 351
from Mat-Su teleconference.
REP. JEANNETTE JAMES
Alaska State Legislature
State Capitol Building, Rm. 501
Juneau, AK 99811
Phone: 465-3743
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351.
C.E. SWACKHAMMER, Deputy Commissioner
Department of Public Safety
450 Whittier
Juneau, AK 99801
Phone: 465-4322
Position Statement: Testified in opposition to HB 351.
ROGER ROTHSCHILD
P.O. Box 1783
Bethel, AK 99559
Phone: 543-5478
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Bethel teleconference.
KIM FRANCISCO
P.O. Box 1868
Bethel, AK 99559
Phone: 543-2064
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Bethel teleconference.
CHARLES GRIFFIN
3230 West 69th Ave. #A
Anchorage, AK 99502
Phone: 248-2022
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
MARCELLA JAVIER
1703 Twining Dr.
Anchorage, AK 99504
Phone: 333-5736
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
REXINE OLSON
P.O. Box 1448
Kodiak, AK 99615
Phone: 486-7714
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Kodiak teleconference.
ROBERT ANDERSON
P.O. Box 2625
Kodiak, AK 99615
Phone: 486-8391
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Kodiak teleconference.
KENNETH FARROW
P.O. Box 1009
Delta Junction, AK 99737
Phone: 895-4452
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Delta Junction teleconference.
CHARLES "MIKE" CARLSON
P.O. Box 953
Delta Junction, AK 99737
Phone: 895-4819
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Delta Junction teleconference.
MARK BELLINGER
P.O. Box 733
Cooper Landing, AK 99572
Phone: 595-1509
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Mat-Su teleconference.
LYMAN NICHOLS
P.O. Box 783
Cooper Landing, AK 99572
Phone: 595-1224
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Mat-Su teleconference.
RICHARD BARLOW
HC02 Box 7550 A-2
Palmer, AK 99645
Phone: 745-2784
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Mat-Su teleconference.
JOHN BOULETTE
P.O. Box 56896
North Pole, AK 99705
Phone: 488-8386
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
North Pole teleconference.
ROYCE CHAPMAN
P.O. Box 55414
North Pole, AK 99705
Phone: 488-8450
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
North Pole teleconference.
BOB BRUMLOW
3811 East 84th Ave.
Anchorage, AK 99507
Phone: 349-8237
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
KEN LEWIS
P.O. Box 140994
Anchorage, AK 99514
Phone: 268-9007
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
CHRIS SULLIVAN
4155 McLean Place
Anchorage, AK 99504
Phone: 337-3075
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
JERRY MYERS
P.O. Box 22561
Juneau, AK 99801
Phone: 586-2280
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351.
BRUCE CAMPBELL
326 4th St. #211
Juneau, AK 99801
Phone: 586-2500
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351.
KATHY THAROLDSEN
1500 Russian Jack Dr. #31
Anchorage, AK 99508
Phone: 333-3031
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
TAMMY REIGHARD
6811 E. 3rd Ave.
Anchorage, AK 99504
Phone: 333-6245
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
EUGENE P. MURPHY
3515 Vassar Dr.
Anchorage, AK 99508
Phone: 274-2880
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
MARLEA BELLINGER
P.O. Box 783
Cooper Landing, AK 99572
Phone: 595-1509
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Kenai teleconference.
BONNIE WILLIAMS
1335 Sunny Slope Rd.
Fairbanks, AK 99709
Phone: 455-6652
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Fairbanks teleconference.
DAVID WILLIAMS
1335 Sunny Slope Rd.
Fairbanks, AK 99709
Phone: 455-6652
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Fairbanks teleconference.
CHARLES MALLOTT
P.O. Box 6482
Ketchikan, AK 99901
Phone: 225-3922
Position Statement: Testified in opposition to HB 351 from
Ketchikan teleconference.
ELZIE ISLEY
2533 3rd Ave.
Ketchikan, AK 99901
Phone: 225-4881
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Ketchikan teleconference.
PAUL MOORE
300 Peppertree Loop
Anchorage, AK 99504
Phone: 338-7237
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
BOB PALMQUIST
11911 Portage
Anchorage, AK 99515
Phone: 349-8885
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
GARY KUHN
HC01 Box 6473
Palmer, AK 99645
Phone: 745-4110
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
BILL BOSTIC, JR.
1226 Hartzog Loop
North Pole, AK 99705
Phone: 488-2112
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
North Pole teleconference.
ELMER LINDSTROM, Special Assistant
Commissioner's Office
Department of Health and Social Services
P.O. Box 110601
Juneau, AK 99811-0601
Phone: 789-2662
Position Statement: Commented on HB 351.
BOYD BARRUS
P.O. Box 112853
Anchorage, AK 99511
Phone: 345-4158
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
JOHN GAYOBS
P.O. Box 241181
Anchorage, AK 99524
Phone: 349-7094
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
DENNIS HERMANNES
8007 Countrywoods Dr.
Anchorage, AK 99502
Phone: 349-6689
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
MADELINE HUFF
2710 Dearmoun Rd.
Anchorage, AK 99516
Phone: 345-6746
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
BASIL ATKINSON, JR.
2710 Dearmoun Rd.
Anchorage, AK 99516
Phone: 345-8261
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
LAWRENCE W. HUFF
2710 Dearmoun Rd.
Anchorage, AK 99516
Phone: 345-6746
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
BRYAN POTRATZ
P.O. Box 5308
Fort Richardson, AK 99505
Phone: 276-5027
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
NEIL CAMERON
3514 West 40th
Anchorage, AK 99517
Phone: 248-7382
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Anchorage teleconference.
DONALD A. McDONALD
P.O. Box 82530
Fairbanks, AK 99708
Phone: 479-7249
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Fairbanks teleconference.
SAM MEDSKER
P.O. Box 60342
Fairbanks, AK 99706
Phone: 479-6520
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Fairbanks teleconference.
RODGER DAY
709 Wanda Dr.
North Pole, AK 99705
Phone: 488-3712
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
North Pole teleconference.
JOY COOK
1853 Kendall Ave.
North Pole, AK 99705
Phone: 488-0488
Position Statement: Testified in opposition to HB 351 from
North Pole teleconference.
GREG MACHACEK
P.O. Box 56245
North Pole, AK 99705
Phone: 488-4534
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
Fairbanks teleconference.
JOHN GLOTFELTY
2355 Sunflower Loop
North Pole, AK 99705
Phone: 488-8654
Position Statement: Testified in favor of HB 351 from
North Pole teleconference.
DUANE UDLAND, Deputy Chief
Anchorage Police Department
Municipality of Anchorage
Anchorage, AK 99501
Position Statement: Testified in opposition to HB 351 from
Anchorage off-net site.
PREVIOUS ACTION
BILL: HB 328
SHORT TITLE: BIENNIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION
SPONSOR(S): REP(S). MARTIN,BARNES,Phillips,B.Davis
JRN-DATE JRN-PG ACTION
01/03/94 2013 (H) PREFILE RELEASED
01/10/94 2013 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME/REFERRAL(S)
01/10/94 2013 (H) STATE AFFAIRS, FINANCE
01/13/94 2054 (H) COSPONSOR(S): B. DAVIS
01/22/94 (H) STA AT 08:00 AM CAPITOL 102
BILL: HB 351
SHORT TITLE: PERMIT TO CARRY CONCEALED WEAPONS
SPONSOR(S): REPRESENTATIVE(S) JAMES,Bunde,Olberg,Sanders
JRN-DATE JRN-PG ACTION
01/07/94 2019 (H) PREFILE RELEASED
01/10/94 2019 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME/REFERRAL(S)
01/10/94 2020 (H) STATE AFFAIRS, JUDICIARY,
FINANCE
01/12/94 2043 (H) COSPONSOR(S): SANDERS
01/22/94 (H) STA AT 08:00 AM CAPITOL 102
ACTION NARRATIVE
TAPE 94-3, SIDE A
Number 000
CHAIR VEZEY called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m.
Members present were Representatives G. Davis and Olberg.
The meeting was being teleconferenced to Anchorage,
Fairbanks, North Pole, Ketchikan, Bethel, Mat-Su, and
Kenai/Soldotna. At 8:01 a.m., Representative Kott arrived
and quorum was present.
HB 328 - DRIVERS LICENSE FEES; BIENNIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION
Number 044
REPRESENTATIVE TERRY MARTIN, sponsor of HB 328, explained
the purpose of HB 328 as being to take care of `piggy back'
problems with the vehicle registration. He said some of the
problems are collecting city taxes, inspection & maintenance
(I.M.) testing, etc. REPRESENTATIVE MARTIN submitted
suggestions to the committee for changing HB 328.
(Attachment on file.) REPRESENTATIVE MARTIN also requested
two or three hearings on HB 328, in which case subcommittees
could fully understand the implications of `piggy-backing
programs' to the registration of a vehicle.
Number 117
CHAIR VEZEY acknowledged REPRESENTATIVE MARTIN'S suggestions
and introduced RON KING.
Number 155
RON KING, PROJECT MANAGER, MOBILE SOURCES PROGRAM,
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION (DEC), testified
that his department was in favor of working with the sponsor
to create a palatable bill to both the public and his
department. MR. KING said his program responsibilities
include the vehicle inspection of maintenance program areas.
With new regulations adopted January 21, 1994, by
Commissioner Sandor, MR. KING stated his department was now
in a position to implement changes, but not without a cost
impact to the agency. MR. KING highlighted the use of a fee
to reduce the general fund match which goes to the DEC by up
to $400,000. Mr. KING elaborated on the suggestions
REPRESENTATIVE MARTIN submitted. He said the vehicle
inspection programs are under the most scrutiny and the
continuing effectiveness of these programs must be
maintained. He stated the department would also like the
ability to prescribe fees.
REPRESENTATIVE PETE KOTT questioned the attainment standards
for emission failing cities, such as Anchorage and Eagle
River and the amount of time which may elapse before they
would reach suitable levels.
MR. KING responded the standard, as implied by the Clear Air
Act, must be maintained for two years before a change in the
program may occur.
Number 289
REPRESENTATIVE KOTT asked how the department would notify
individuals that their annual inspections would be due.
Number 294
MR. KING explained an initial letter, followed by second and
third notices would be sent out to an accumulative of 15,000
people, with registration revocation notices following if
unsuccessful. This process includes graduating fees for
those not responding to their notices.
REPRESENTATIVE KOTT inquired about an allowance to appeal
the issue of paying a fine for individuals who are out-of-
state for three to five months at a time.
Number 332
MR. KING noted provisions already in place such as utilizing
a portion of statutes under AS 28 to alter the registration
month to concur with individuals in-state time, and
secondly, the requisition of an "outside use or seasonal
waiver".
Number 344
CHAIR VEZEY asked why are (we) locked into annual inspection
tests? What makes them better than biennial?
Number 352
MR. KING responded with two reasons: Car performance
decreases within approximately nine months, and the
effectiveness of the program established in 1985 with the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency was based on an annual
inspection. Cars must at least maintain their current
performance and structure which requires an annual
inspection. A centralized maintenance program, rather than
the decentralized program currently in place, could provide
a system for biennial inspection with the use of more
sophisticated equipment. MR. KING emphasized (we) should
maintain where (we) are, achieve the "standard", and in two
years move for alterations in the program when the
maintenance plan must be submitted.
Number 410
REPRESENTATIVE MARTIN asked MR. KING if he would allow
biennial registration to move forward now, allowing the I.M.
programs an easier entrance into the program as it improves.
MR. KING found HB 328 a "step in the right direction" and
agreed with REPRESENTATIVE MARTIN. The DEC and the Division
of Motor Vehicles (DMV) would then be required to work
closely together.
CHAIR VEZEY checked the teleconference sites for witnesses.
Number 428
JOE SCHOENER, of North Pole, asked MR. KING to explain the
Mobile Sources Fee.
Number 434
MR. KING explained the Mobile Sources Fee applies to those
who fail to have their vehicle inspected and it is in place
to create the incentive to do so.
Number 447
MR. SCHOENER expressed his support of HB 328 and suggested
guidelines which would allow the biennial registration date
to be carried over with the change in ownership of a
vehicle. He also stated the biennial fees should not have
to be repaid.
Number 457
CHAIR VEZEY clarified MR. SCHOENER was in support of HB 328.
Number 462
MR. SCHOENER stated in conclusion that the inspection
program which the DEC will need to create should provide the
least amount of time and cost imposition on the public.
Number 476
REPRESENTATIVE MARTIN clarified there is a time and money
savings from the DMV, whereby one only has to register once
a year unless the car is sold. HB 328 decreases the fee
from $70 dollars every two years to $53 dollars every one
and one-half years. One dollar will also be saved by not
having to present the I.M. sticker to the DMV personnel.
REPRESENTATIVE MARTIN also noted the loss of $2-4 million as
reported on the fiscal note would not actually all be lost.
The state would not be collecting the money to pass through
the city, rather the city would collect its own money.
Number 495
CHAIR VEZEY switched to Fairbanks teleconference site.
LADD MCBRIDE, testified from Fairbanks in support of HB 328.
MR. MCBRIDE urged for the reduction of I.M. inspection costs
for the vehicle owner, noting Alaska charges close to double
the amount for inspections than the other 49 states.
Number 529
REPRESENTATIVE MARTIN expressed costs will be reduced for
those who take the time to get their car inspected.
REPRESENTATIVE MARTIN conveyed a scenario in which gas
stations were inflicted by an additional $10 dollar fee for
emission testing receipts. These fees, REPRESENTATIVE
MARTIN believed were unnecessary, when only for paper
pushing costs. Local governments may reduce their costs
without these costly receipts.
Number 560
CHAIR VEZEY moved to the Anchorage teleconference site.
JAY DULANY, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF MOTOR VEHICLES, testified
from Anchorage, in favor of biennial registration. MR.
DULANY stressed the loss of revenue is not so much a concern
of the DMV, rather than the state itself. The new process,
he believes, would not be a "panacea" for efficiency because
the current registration process is simple as it is.
Biennial registration would provide about a 10 percent
savings in the DMV workload, however.
Number 600
CHAIR VEZEY asked how many vehicles within the state do not,
as of now, have to pay registration fees, but are
registered.
MR. DULANY did not have an exact number, but he noted the
amount of lost revenue totals almost $1 million.
Number 612
REPRESENTATIVE KOTT thanked MR. DULANY for his testimony and
asked him if there has ever been a previous reduction in
registration fees.
Number 619
MR. DULANY did not know of any previous reductions, but he
remembered the $5 dollar increase which occurred
approximately ten years ago.
Number 621
REPRESENTATIVE MARTIN thanked MR. DULANY for testifying and
expressed he would like to see the public want to cooperate
with the government by reducing their fees. The percentage
of decrease would be left up to the committee. Branching
out the registration sites may also relieve the back up
which occurs in DMV locations.
CHAIR VEZEY called for a brief recess.
TAPE 94-3, Side B
Number 000
CHAIR VEZEY recalled the meeting at 8:42 a.m. and introduced
Gene Dusek at the Anchorage teleconference site.
Number 011
GENE DUSEK, BUDGET DIRECTOR, MUNICIPALITY OF ANCHORAGE,
testified from Anchorage, and expressed two concerns with HB
328. First, the impact on the Anchorage air quality
inspections program. Secondly, the revenue impact via the
annual motor vehicle registration tax. MR. DUSEK desired an
amendment to HB 328 which would amend AS 28.10.431(b) to
double the current annual motor vehicle registration tax.
Enforcement problems may arise with biennial registration.
MR. DUSEK suggested the creation of a dedicated fund which
would provide a "bureaucratic system of renewification
enforcement".
Number 111
REPRESENTATIVE MARTIN reemphasized the loss in revenues is
not to the state, but a relocation of collection efforts to
the city.
Number 135
MR. DUSEK stated the last date to opt out of the 1996
program would be January 1, 1995.
Number 150
CHAIR VEZEY requested written testimony from anyone who
would like to comment.
Number 163
FRANK DILLON, representing the Alaska Trucking Association,
testified from Anchorage in favor of HB 328.
Number 189
REPRESENTATIVE KOTT asked MR. DILLON for the positive
effects HB 328 would have on the truckers.
Number 194
MR. DILLON believed general efficiencies would improve and
also the reduction in costs.
Number 206
CHAIR VEZEY switched to the Mat-Su teleconference site for
the testimony of MARK GORDON.
Number 218
MARK GORDON, testified in favor of HB 328 from Mat-Su. MR.
GORDON questioned MR. KING if the DEC's new program would
require inspections on just his commuting vehicle or all
three of his vehicles.
MR. KING expressed the program would only be implemented on
the commuting vehicle from home to work.
Number 244
CHAIR VEZEY called for a short recess at 8:55 a.m. stating a
subcommittee would be assigned to HB 328.
Number 270
CHAIR VEZEY resumed the meeting at 8:59 a.m. noting HB 328
would be rescheduled.
CHAIR VEZEY appointed a subcommittee to look into the
affairs of the Alaska Railroad System due to complaints
about unfair competition with the private sector. The
members of this subcommittee include REPRESENTATIVES FOSTER,
KOTT, SANDERS, JAMES, and VEZEY.
CHAIR VEZEY opened discussion on HB 351.
HB 351 - PERMIT TO CARRY CONCEALED WEAPONS
REPRESENTATIVE JEANNETTE JAMES, prime sponsor of HB 351,
testified in favor of HB 351. REPRESENTATIVE JAMES read her
sponsor statement for the introduction and purpose of HB
351. (Sponsor statement on file.) HB 351 has found a large
amount of support. REPRESENTATIVE JAMES stated HB 351 is a
form of gun control with civil rights protection. Believing
honest people should be heard, REPRESENTATIVE JAMES felt
honest people should be allowed to carry concealed weapons.
Public Safety is opposed to this because of their one-sided
view of only the criminal side of guns. REPRESENTATIVE
JAMES joined the committee table.
Number 391
CHAIR VEZEY asked C.E. SWACKHAMMER to begin his testimony.
Number 402
C.E. SWACKHAMMER, DEPUTY COMMISSIONER, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC
SAFETY (DPS), testified in opposition to HB 351. The DPS
had several concerns with HB 351: (1) the intent of the
legislation would not be accomplished through the permitting
process; (2) Alaska has a higher rate of emotional problems
resulting in an increased number of assaults; (3) the
screening process for permits would not be able to fully
scrutinize individuals; (4) HB 351 does not address the
lawful lethal use of firearms; and (5) the administrative
costs are hard to judge for the fiscal note. (The fiscal
note could not be supplied for this hearing.)
Number 476
CHAIR VEZEY asked if MR. SWACKHAMMER was talking primarily
about pistols?
Number 481
MR. SWACKHAMMER responded no, however, the majority of "the
people" (looking for a permit) would be looking for a
pistol.
Number 499
CHAIR VEZEY expressed his concern over concealed rifles and
shotguns.
Number 500
MR. SWACKHAMMER clarified concealed rifles and shotguns are
illegal. The DPS had a major concern with page two, Sect. 2
(4), which states, "a member of the organized or unorganized
militia." This portion would be counterproductive in not
requiring a member of the organized or unorganized militia
to obtain a permit for a concealed weapon.
CHAIR VEZEY referred to AS 26.05.010 for a definition of the
militia screening criteria.
MR. SWACKHAMMER questioned the change from a 90-day return
of receipt to 45 days. The expediency of the fingerprint
testing may not be suitable for 45 days.
Number 544
CHAIR VEZEY mentioned the committee is open to changes on HB
351 and expressed his appreciation to MR. SWACKHAMMER for
his opinion.
Number 554
REPRESENTATIVE KOTT asked MR. SWACKHAMMER if the assaults
currently taking place without firearms would evolve into
firearm assaults with the passage of HB 351.
Number 562
MR. SWACKHAMMER replied yes.
Number 563
REPRESENTATIVE KOTT continued with the notion of permits
possibly acting as deterrents for future assaults, due to
the assailant knowing the victim could have a firearm.
REPRESENTATIVE KOTT also questioned if the rate of rapes
would have declined if the victimized women were allowed to
carry firearms.
Number 570
MR. SWACKHAMMER responded assaults are very emotionally
charged and from his experience the addition of firearms
only makes the incident more violent. MR. SWACKHAMMER did
not have a response to the rape question.
Number 590
REPRESENTATIVE KOTT referred to the recent Northway Mall
shooting incident. The man being shot at may have had a
chance to retaliate or protect himself with a firearm.
Number 602
REPRESENTATIVE WILLIS joined the table to question MR.
SWACKHAMMER if any states that currently have concealed
weapons laws in place have or are trying to repeal them.
Number 609
MR. SWACKHAMMER responded he has inquired about the issue,
but only knew of a survey which stated one out of four would
like to repeal the law. Florida, as an example, just past a
concealed weapons law; however, the crime rate has continued
to rise.
Number 620
CHAIR VEZEY moved to the Bethel teleconference site.
ROGER ROTHSCHILD testified from Bethel in favor of HB 351.
(Written testimony on file.)
(TAPE 94-4, Side A had been taped over with the end of the
meeting. The following 45 minutes are from notes only. For
organizational purposes, the tape will resume with the
proper order of testimony on TAPE 94-4 Side A after this
portion.)
Number 038
KIM FRANCISCO testified from Bethel in support of HB 351.
Number 054
CHAIR VEZEY moved to Anchorage teleconference site.
Number 069
CHARLES B. GRIFFIN testified from Anchorage in support of HB
351.
Number 123
MARCELLA JAVIER testified from Anchorage in support of HB
351.
Number 163
CHAIR VEZEY moved to Kodiak teleconference site.
Number 180
REXINE OLSON testified from Kodiak in support of HB 351.
Number 221
ROBERT ANDERSON testified from Kodiak in support of HB 351.
MR. ANDERSON requested the addition of a disclosure clause
and penalties for not doing so. Use of force training and
individual weapon qualifications should also be required.
CHAIR VEZEY moved to Delta Junction teleconference site.
Number 270
KENNETH E. FARROW testified from Delta Junction in favor of
HB 351. MR. FARROW believed the open display of firearms is
a disruption and is upsetting to the public.
CHARLES "MIKE" CARLSON testified from Delta Junction in
favor of HB 351.
Number 320
CHAIR VEZEY moved to the Mat-Su teleconference site.
Number 327
MARK BELLINGER testified from Mat-Su in support of HB 351.
LYMAN NICHOLS testified from Mat-Su in support of HB 351.
Number 388
CHAIR VEZEY transferred to Fairbanks teleconference site.
Number 398
RICHARD BARLOW testified from Fairbanks in favor of HB 351.
MR. BARLOW inquired about the lack of appeal process for
unnecessary fines.
LADD MCBRIDE testified from Fairbanks in favor of HB 351.
Number 469
CHAIR VEZEY moved to North Pole teleconference site.
Number 477
JOHN BOULETTE testified form North Pole in favor of HB 351.
Number 497
CHAIR VEZEY announced anyone wishing to submit written
testimony may do so by fax while the meeting continues.
ROYCE CHAPMAN testified from North Pole in favor of HB 351.
Number 523
CHAIR VEZEY called for a short recess at 10:05 a.m.
The meeting reconvened at 10:10 a.m. and the Anchorage
teleconference site was on line.
Number 561
BILL BRUMLOW testified from Anchorage in support of HB 351.
Number 599
KEN LEWIS testified from Anchorage in support of HB 351.
Number 656
CHRIS SULLIVAN testified from Anchorage in support of HB
351.
CHAIR VEZEY moved to Juneau for testimony.
TAPE 94-4, Side A (Tape is corrected and Side A begins with
the following testimony.)
Number 006
JERRY MYERS testified from Juneau in support of HB 351. MR.
MYERS was concerned with the 12 month residency requirement
to acquire a permit. Being in competitive shooting matches,
MR. MYERS has permits for carrying firearms in several
states. An immediate exchange process or a substitution
mechanism with permits was requested to cover the 12 month
short fall. MR. MYERS also questioned the use of the word
"outdoor" when referring to the usage of firearms. Wording
such as "any other lawful use" is more acceptable.
Number 073
BRUCE CAMPBELL, a firearms training instructor, testified in
favor of HB 351. MR. CAMPBELL felt HB 351 was a quality
safety bill, which would adequately train those in need of a
firearm.
Number 140
CHAIR VEZEY moved to the Anchorage teleconference site.
Number 159
KATHY THAROLDSON testified from Anchorage in favor of HB
351. MS. THAROLDSON questioned REPRESENTATIVE JAMES about
the $125 dollar initial fee. She noted as a single active
parent, nightly activities are limited with the lack of
protection available.
Number 172
REPRESENTATIVE JAMES responded there is a $59 dollar fee to
pay for fingerprinting and her intention with this fee was
to cover the administrative costs of the bill.
REPRESENTATIVE JAMES noted when the Department of Public
Safety returns a notice of actual costs, the fee will then
be adjusted to cover them.
Number 206
TAMMY REIGHARD testified from Anchorage in favor of HB 351.
MS. REIGHARD felt HB 351 would benefit the elderly, as well
as women.
Number 220
EUGENE MURPHY testified from Anchorage in favor of HB 351
and stated he disagrees with MR. SWACKHAMMER, because he
felt the Department of Public Safety was merely showing
administrative opinions and not 'street cop' opinions.
Number 279
CHAIR VEZEY moved to the Kenai teleconference site.
Number 285
MARLEA BELLINGER testified from Kenai in support of HB 351.
As a near victim of rape, MS. BELLINGER felt a firearm was a
valuable source for defense.
Number 315
CHAIR VEZEY moved to the Fairbanks teleconference site.
Number 319
BONNIE WILLIAMS testified from Fairbanks in favor of HB 351.
MRS. WILLIAMS quoted statistics from the National Rifle
Association, "from 1979-1985 if victims of robbery and
assault had been carrying a concealed firearm, there would
have been 196,148 fewer victims injured in robbery and
935,530 fewer injured in assault." The group most in need
of concealed fire arms is women. In most situations, police
are not readily available to protect individuals from
criminals. MRS. WILLIAMS also believes if individuals are
not required to requalify for every different type of car
they drive with a drivers license, they should not have to
requalify for every different type of firearm they possess.
Number 367
DAVID WILLIAMS testified in favor of HB 351 from Fairbanks.
MR. WILLIAMS believed the 2nd Amendment to the U.S.
Constitution allows the public the carry firearms; however,
state laws have inhibited this right. There is a bias
towards the politically elite, which allows them to carry
concealed weapons more often than others in need. The
national murder rate has risen 14 percent from 1986-1991,
but in Florida since the passage of the firearms carrying
law in 1987, the murder rate has decreased 20 percent.
Florida's murder rate was 36 percent higher than the
national rate in 1986, and is now four percent lower than
the national average. Florida's robbery rate only rose nine
percent, while nationally it rose 21 percent. MR. WILLIAMS
also emphasized Oregon, Montana, Mississippi, and
Pennsylvania as examples of states with effective carrier
laws.
Number 424
CHAIR VEZEY moved to the Ketchikan teleconference site.
CHARLES MALLOTT, a law enforcement officer of several years,
testified from Ketchikan in opposition to HB 351. MR.
MALLOTT stated there are very young gang members without
prior criminal or mental illness history which will be
allowed access to concealed weapons. Gangs and those
individuals involved with drugs will be even more of a
menace with the ready availability of weapons. Accidents
around the household with children may also increase.
ELZIE ISLEY testified from Ketchikan in support of HB 351.
Cab drivers are in need in protection.
Number 519
CHAIR VEZEY moved to Anchorage teleconference site.
Number 526
PAUL MOORE testified from Anchorage in favor of HB 351. MR.
MOORE felt the need for a firearm to protect his family.
Number 563
BOB PALMQUIST, SERGEANT, DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS,
testified from Anchorage in favor of HB 351. MR. PALMQUIST
felt he needed a firearm to protect his family from those
criminals he meets through his work and for the increased
violence occurring throughout his once peaceful
neighborhood.
(REPRESENTATIVE KOTT and REPRESENTATIVE OLBERG left the
meeting at 10:30 a.m.)
Number 583
REPRESENTATIVE VEZEY extended the meeting to 12:00 p.m.
Number 591
GARY KUHN testified from Anchorage in favor of HB 351,
believing an extensive training program is necessary.
Number 636
CHAIR VEZEY moved to North Pole teleconference site.
Number 649
BILL BOSTIC, JR. testified from North Pole in support of HB
351. MR. BOSTIC believed the $125 dollar initial fee should
be defrayed for those who have already been researched and
scanned through the military or other government
organization. A written release of information may only be
needed for those individuals.
Number 676
JOE SCHOENER testified from North Pole in favor of HB 351.
Number 684
CHAIR VEZEY returned to Juneau for the testimony of ELMER
LINDSTROM.
Number 689
ELMER LINDSTROM, SPECIAL ASSISTANT to COMMISSIONER LOWE,
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES, testified on HB
351. MR. LINDSTROM noted clinical records of mental illness
are protected and if individuals state they have never been
admitted there will be no way to check if it is true.
TAPE 94-4, Side B
Number 000
ELMER LINDSTROM continued, if an individual does admit to a
previous illness and signs to release the records, a problem
arises whereby if the individual has not received care for
five years, the doctor cannot accurately sign a release of
good mental health. Substance abuse records are also
protected by federal law. Medical or psychological
professional should be clearly defined. MR. LINDSTROM noted
most treatment facilities for substance abuse are not run by
licensed medical or psychological professionals; therefore,
the source of the sworn statement may be individuals with
little or no formal training or knowledge of addiction
treatment. Without constant interaction during a three year
period, a professional would have a difficult time assessing
stable health of those having been treated for addictions.
MR. LINDSTROM noted the bill does not cover inhalant abuse,
which in rural areas is frequently associated with violent
and volatile behavior. The Department of Health and Social
Services would be willing to work with the committee to
apply a proper screening process to the HB 351.
Number 069
CHAIR VEZEY moved to Anchorage teleconference site.
Number 085
BOYD BARRUS testified from Anchorage in favor of HB 351. As
a witness to a kidnapping, MR. BARRUS believed he would have
been able to prevent it if he had been able to carry a
concealed weapon.
JOHN GAYOBS testified from Anchorage in favor of HB 351.
(CHAIR VEZEY leaves room temporarily at 11:20 and
REPRESENTATIVE JAMES takes gavel.)
Number 190
DENNIS HERMANNES testified from Anchorage in favor of HB
351. MR. HERMANNES supported the 2nd Amendment of the U.S.
Constitution, and noted a petition he circulated in
REPRESENTATIVE HANLEY's district showed higher than 90
percent were in favor of HB 351.
(CHAIR VEZEY reentered the room at 11:23 a.m. and resumed
control of the meeting from REPRESENTATIVE JAMES.)
Number 254
CHAIR VEZEY announced HB 351 would be reheard on February 5,
1994.
Number 260
MADELINE HUFF testified from Anchorage in favor of HB 351.
MRS. HUFF disagreed with the 90 day wait period and believed
the $125 fee is unnecessary, because it is a right already
guaranteed by the Constitution.
BASIL ATKINSON, JR. testified from Anchorage in favor of HB
351.
Number 318
LAWRENCE W. HUFF testified from Anchorage in favor of HB
351. MR. HUFF stated he was in favor of training.
Number 340
BRYAN POTRATZ testified from Anchorage in favor of HB 351.
MR. POTRATZ referred to the situation in which a man was
randomly attacked by a coyote in Anchorage. In this
situation a gun would have helped. Carrying a concealed
weapon currently is only a misdemeanor, which does not pose
a serious threat to criminals. MR. POTRATZ would like to
see carrying a concealed weapon to be a felony. Those
without monetary ability should be able to waive the initial
fee required to obtain a permit.
Number 404
NEIL CAMERON testified from Anchorage in favor of HB 351.
MR. CAMERON felt it is the public's responsibility to carry
firearms to protect its' liberty.
CHAIR VEZEY moved to Fairbanks teleconference site.
Number 435
DONALD A. MCDONALD testified in Fairbanks in favor of HB
351.
SAM MEDSKER testified in Fairbanks in favor of HB 351.
MR. MEDSKER believed HB 351 would put criminals on the
alert.
Number 457
CHAIR VEZEY moved to North Pole teleconference site.
Number 464
RODGER DAY testified from North Pole in favor of HB 351.
MR. DAY had an experience where two men tried to rob and
assault him on the side of the road. It was only by
pretending he had a gun that saved him from harm.
Number 504
JOY COOK testified from North Pole in opposition to HB 351.
MS. COOK felt HB 351 was putting the role of enforcement
into the hands of common individuals. Criminals may take
advantage of HB 351. MS. COOK disagreed with
fingerprinting, photographing, record searches, and
residency requirements. MS. COOK will only support HB 351
if these adjustments are made.
Number 521
CHAIR VEZEY returned to Fairbanks teleconference site.
Number 523
GREG MACHACEK testified from Fairbanks in favor of HB 351.
Number 545
CHAIR VEZEY moved to North Pole teleconference site.
Number 548
JOHN GLOTFELTY testified from North Pole in favor of HB 351.
Number 560
CHAIR VEZEY moved to Mat-Su teleconference site.
Number 570
MARK GORDON testified from Mat-Su in favor of HB 351. MR.
GORDON emphasized the lack of appeal process in permit
acquisition. Note those in high risk positions (i.e.,
women, gas attendants, taxi drivers) are not discriminated
against as much for carrying concealed weapons, as broader,
large men are.
Number 606
CHAIR VEZEY moved to Anchorage offnet connection to hear
DUANE UDLAND.
Number 620
DUANE UDLAND, DEPUTY CHIEF, ANCHORAGE POLICE DEPARTMENT,
testified with concerns on HB 351. MR. UDLAND reminded
everyone HB 351 is for lawful and lethal use, not violence.
MR. UDLAND asked the committee to carefully look over the
deficiencies the bill now has.
Number 674
CHAIR VEZEY repeated HB 351 would be rescheduled for
February 5, 1994, and adjourned the meeting at 11:54 a.m.
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