2nd Amendment and Right to Bear Arms/gun free zone

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Expert: - 11/27/2010


Question
Hi, im not asking for legal advice, just a discription of a particular gun law.  my friend just moved to a house in Kansas.  he lives a few blocks down from a school and in a "zone" called "gun and drug free school zone".  he doesnt own any guns and doesnt plan on getting any in the future, but he was kind of upset by the idea that he couldnt even if he wanted to.  Im upset as well.  does this "zone" mean he cant own a firearm in his house?  that seems like a serious infringement of his 2nd amendment rights.  are we not understanding this law clearly or...?

P.S. sory about miss spelled words.  the "check Spelling" button aint working for some reason.

Thanks, John

Answer
John, it is difficult to answer your question without knowing more about the particular school zone in your area. The sign may be referring to a federal law known as the Gun Free School Zones Act of 1995, or it may also refer to a similar state law. I cannot comment on Kansas gun law but if you want to learn more about the federal law--which includes many exceptions that allow for lawful gun possession, including on private property not on school grounds--review this article:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gun-Free_School_Zones_Act_of_1990

2nd Amendment and Right to Bear Arms

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Robert P. Firriolo

Expertise

General constitutional (Second Amendment) and federal firearm law inquiries. New York State and New York City laws and regulations on firearms. Use of force in self-defense.

Experience

Practicing firearms law attorney, including representation of individuals, gun clubs, sportsmen's organizations, shooting ranges, and businesses. Over 20 years of grassroots activism, including involvement in campaigns and elections; writing and editing articles, letters, press-releases, policy papers, and op-ed columns; interaction with firearm regulatory agencies; former board member and current legal advisor to the board of sportsmen's and firearm civil rights organizations; pro-bono counsel on select firearms-related legal cases; debated leaders of the gun-control lobby on national television. Lecturer on lawful use of deadly physical force and crime prevention.

Education/Credentials
Attorney at law. Extensive practice, independent study and research in this field. NRA-certified firearms instructor (rifle, pistol, shotgun, home firearm safety, personal protection) and Chief Range Safety Officer.

Awards and Honors
Martindale-Hubbell "AV" Peer-Review Rating.

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