How long until abuses from guns in parks?
A new law that took effect last week allows loaded guns in national parks and wildlife refuges as long as they are allowed by state law. The legislation was lobbied relentlessly by the National Rifle Association that scored a victory while inflicting a serious blow to gun-control advocates. One gun-control supporter has stated that it is really sad that some people are so paranoid that they feel it necessary to take guns everywhere. I agree. I was against allowing snowmobilers in our national parks because of their deleterious effect on the natural environment. But this potentially more disturbing law has come into focus. If guns won’t be allowed in visitor centers or ranger offices and, since all wildlife is protected, where will guns be allowed? Along a trail or in a campground an overzealous individual with a weapon might shoot to kill a bear while endangering other people. His excuse will be that he felt threatened. National Park Service personnel already are overstressed due to bu
