Gun Control Law

Proposed town bylaws tightening gun control measures in Longmeadow, Massachusetts have drawn the ire of the National Rifle Association. (AP File Photo/Ed Andrieski, FILE)

(Ed Andrieski)

LONGMEADOW -- Proposed town bylaws tightening gun control measures in Longmeadow have drawn the ire of the National Rifle Association.

The NRA's Institute for Legislative Action (NRA-ILA) recently sent out an email listing three articles on Longmeadow's May 10 Town Meeting warrant, which would enact bylaws banning the possession of certain types of firearms within the town and increasing police regulation of all guns.

"These proposed articles will create unreasonable restrictions on law-abiding gun owners in the neighboring town of Longmeadow," the NRA's email reads. "Please attend the town meeting to support residents in Longmeadow and to prevent the proposed articles below from coming to your town!"

Articles on the warrant concerning gun control were submitted by Alex Grant, a member of Longmeadow's Select Board. Grant, the lead petitioner, added the items to the town meeting warrant as a citizen petitioner, rather than in his capacity as a board member.

1. The first of the gun control warrant articles calls for a $300 fine to be imposed on anyone who possesses a firearm, rifle or shotgun in town-owned buildings or on recreation property.

2. The second would require gun owners to provide the police department with descriptions (including the serial number, make, model, and caliber) of each firearm, rifle, or shotgun they own.

3. A third proposed bylaw would ban assault weapons in Longmeadow, and impose a $300 per day fine on people who own them within the town.

Grant has said that he hopes the articles will lead to a respectful debate on the town meeting floor next month.

In its email, the NRA concludes with a clear warning to those who oppose measures like those proposed in Longmeadow.

"Remember, your town could be next."