Wyoming House Bill HB0133

Wyoming 2022 Regular Session

• Failed: 2/18/22

Caption

Second Amendment Preservation Act-2.

Impact

Should HB 0133 come into effect, it would give rise to substantial changes in legislative interactions between state and federal authorities over gun rights. The bill also allocates for civil liabilities against entities or individuals who enforce federal regulations infringing on these rights. Critics may argue that this could incite legal challenges and conflict between state and federal law enforcement agencies. The legislation intends to fortify the rights of law-abiding citizens while simultaneously enhancing state control over gun legislation, which could redefine the power dynamics between state governments and federal actions concerning firearms.

Summary

House Bill 0133, known as the Second Amendment Preservation Act, is a legislative measure aimed at safeguarding the rights of Wyoming residents to bear arms as guaranteed by both the U.S. Constitution and the Wyoming State Constitution. The bill articulates the intent of the Wyoming legislature to declare any federal actions infringing upon the right to keep and bear arms as unconstitutional and thus void within the state. Furthermore, it outlines the state's duty to reject any laws or acts that could limit firearm possession, including but not limited to registration and taxation specifically on firearms and ammunition. This clearly underscores Wyoming's stance against perceived federal overreach regarding gun rights.

Contention

The primary debates around HB 0133 center on the balance of power between state and federal governments, particularly regarding the Second Amendment. Proponents argue that the bill is crucial for preserving individual freedoms and counteracting federal encroachments on states' rights. However, detractors warn that it could lead to confusion and inconsistency in law enforcement, potentially undermining other federal laws aimed at addressing gun violence safety measures. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the implications for local law enforcement officers and the potential risk of civil penalties for failure to comply with the bill's provisions.