PSUSCC response to Oregon SB 1551

February 2nd, 2016
Written Testimony for SB 1551

Dear Oregon Senators:

We're Portland State University Students for Concealed Carry (PSUSCC). PSUSCC is a student club that was officially launched a little over a month ago, and now has 31 members. Our members have found an incredibly diverse group of people who all share an interest and a passion for the sport of shooting and the Second Amendment. We are from diverse racial, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds; we are men, women, conservatives, and liberals; we are straight, bisexual, and queer; we are survivors of sexual assault, veterans, older adults with incredible life experiences, and young adults just beginning our careers. What unites us is our firm belief that self-defense an unalienable human right, and our commitment to safe, responsible gun-ownership.

We're 100% opposed to SB 15511 and urge you to VOTE NO for the following reasons:

1. The bill would grant a wide range of individuals the ability to make the assumption that someone is experiencing a mental health crisis. The problem here is that neither educators, school principles, instructors or administrators of a college or university have the mental health education or experience necessary to make a report whose ramifications are so severe as to strip someone of a constitutional right without due process.

2. It is a curious thing to consider that a report sent to the State Police Firearms Unit alleging that someone is experiencing a mental health crisis and shouldn't be able to buy a firearm, isn't serious enough for any kind of followup. In fact, the accused will have no way of knowing their constitutional right has been taken away until they attempt to purchase a firearm.

3. There is ZERO due process.

4. There is no limit to the number of times someone vindictive (or have someone else on their behalf) renew the report.

5. The burden of proof is on the accused to show “clear and convincing evidence” that they're not a danger to themselves or others. This is time and money.

We are incredibly concerned with SB 1551 and the direct attack on the constitutionally protected rights of all Oregonians. In particular, we are troubled with the lack of due process afforded to individuals in this bill. Under SB 1551, any individual can have their second amendment rights taken away from them without knowing who is accusing them of being unsafe, or even when they have been accused. Under this bill, the burden is on gun owners to prove they are innocent – at their own time and expense – in order to restore their freedom to purchase a firearm. This is unconstitutional, and in our democratic republic, this type of legislation is unconscionable.

We believe Oregonians can do better than a secret system designed to strip away the rights of citizens unless they can prove their innocence. We can address gun violence and mental health issues without sacrificing the rights of the thousands of Oregonians who have been diagnosed with a mental health issue, the majority of whom are more likely to be the victim of a violent crime, rather than the perpetrator.

We need forward thinking, compassionate solutions that address the real causes of violent crime and create lasting, positive changes for Oregonians. SB 1551 will not achieve this. It will create an environment of fear where those who are struggling with difficult emotions are scared to get help, for fear that it could cost them their freedom. Meanwhile, violent criminals will continue to get guns the way they always have: on the black market.

We urge you to vote no on SB 1551. This is a direct attack on law abiding gun owners. It will do nothing to stop violent crime.


Thank you.


Sincerely,


Kendra
President
Portland State University – Students for Concealed Carry