To the Editor:

I had the opportunity to address the Legislative Council on Wednesday, December 2, in regard to the proposed ordinances that were under consideration by the Council. These ordinances would limit the possession of firearms on town property. Having lived nearly my entire life in this area of Connecticut and having practiced law here for over 30 years, with the substantial portion of my practice centered in firearms law, I appreciated the opportunity to bring my experience and expertise to this process.

In my view, there are concerns with the proposed ordinances both in terms of what the Council can do, and what the Council should do. In particular:

1. Further regulation in this area has been preempted by the intent of the State Legislature to occupy the entire field of regulation; and

2. The town does not possess the power to regulate the possession of firearms under the scope of its authority specified under Connecticut General Statutes §7‐148; and

3. That the practical effect of these ordinances will only serve to render law-abiding citizens vulnerable to attack by stripping them of their right to self defense.

Given the legal issues set forth in the first and second points, I believe it very likely that, were the Council to approve these proposed ordinances, the Town of Newtown would be subjected to significant legal costs to defend a substantial court challenge.

The third point compels the Council to consider whether these proposed ordinances serve a legitimate purpose.

The proposals would render law-abiding citizens defenseless in public places where our most vulnerable citizens apply for aid, assistance, and other important activities vital to their day to day life. Restraining orders attempt to shield many of these citizens, but they are as ineffective at protecting life and health as these proposed ordinances.

Our citizens have the right to, and responsibility for, their own personal protection, and I believe it would be ill considered for the Council to pass any ordinance that would limit the exercise of their constitutionally protected rights.

Based on the foregoing, I do not believe that the Council can act without a very high expectation of a costly legal challenge, nor do I believe it should act as the proposed ordinances do not serve a legitimate purpose.

I believe the Council, after thoughtful deliberation, made an informed decision not to expend further effort to consider these draft ordinances.

Andrew J. Buzzi, Jr

38 Obtuse Road, Newtown December 11, 2020