WRTC Position on the Westford Assault Weapons Bylaw

The Board of Selectmen have proposed a bylaw that would prohibit Westford residents from owning certain classes of firearms that are legal under state and federal laws. We believe this action is constitutionally and historically reserved for state and federal governments.  This proposal exceeds the authority of the Board of Selectmen and challenges both the United States and State Constitution. Because of this, it subjects the town to serious legal and financial liabilities.

If passed, this bylaw would create a class of individuals (to include residents and visitors who happen to cross out town line) who are law abiding under state and federal law, yet criminals in Westford. If the police were to take action under this bylaw, they could be committing a civil rights violation.

This bylaw is nothing more than political grandstanding, which offers the citizens a false sense of security and our town leaders a false sense of accomplishment. It fails to provide a solution to address the many serious issues relating to the prevention of violence in our society. For these reasons, the Westford Republican Town Committee opposes this bylaw.