I am deeply concerned about Representative Heintzeman's focus on having Crow Wing County a sanctuary for the Second Amendment. I think his focus has tunnel vision and shows a lack of insight concerning mental health and the struggles that exist finding channels to get help. He objects to House File 8, which in effect would require background checks for transfer of guns, of who the gun is sold to! House File 9 would expedite and open channels for families or law enforcement to petition courts to remove firearms from a person that is a danger to themselves or others. We have a mental health crisis, shootings occurring daily, I believe his focus on the Second Amendment lacks insight into the struggles of finding and receiving help for people. We need to broaden our scope to help and protect our families that are struggling and need help and safe places to receive help for those in crisis! Suicide is on the rise, people are being killed on a daily basis, people slaughtered by gun violence. House File 8 and House File 9 bring protections and channels for protection of lives! I am not against guns, gun safes, safety training and channels to protect people from self harm and the senseless killings that occur on a daily basis. We need to expand channels, we desperately need advocates for mental health care and facilities so people can receive the help they need. We need a balance and I believe Josh Heintzeman’s focus lacks balance for families in desperate need of help. We cannot ignore Sandy Hook, suicide, and the daily events of shootings and the mass killings that have occurred in our country! It is time to broaden our scope and protect people.
Deb Halsted
Brainerd
