DNREC holds hearing on firearms in state parks

A public form in Dover March 12 gave the community an opportunity to contribute public comments for the official record to Delaware's Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and the Department of Agriculture regarding the proposed firearm regulations in Delaware state parks, wildlife areas and state forests.

The hearing attracted many citizens, some representing organizations, clubs and foundations, to make comments to Hearing Officer Lisa Vest to be entered into the official record. The deadline for public comment ends March 27. Community members were encouraged to voice their concerns or opinions in front of a packed audience and DNREC Secretary Shawn Garvin, Ag Secretary Michael Scuse, and others.

Some of the major points of this new proposal, based on the Delaware Supreme Court ruling Dec. 7, 2017, which invalidated portions of previous existing regulations governing and supporting the possession of firearms in state lands operated by DNREC and the Ag Department, such as parks, forests, and wildlife areas, were reiterated.

The proposal is almost a complete change from previous regulations, now allowing for open and concealed permit owners to carry firearms within these state lands which were formerly banned completely. The total land area of all involved state property would consist of just 1 percent restricted areas for firearms consisting mostly of known congregation and camping areas.

Those with concealed carry permits would still be able to be in possession, while open carry owners would be restricted.

DNREC and DDA worked to abide by the Supreme Court's demands but had a "limited playing field."

It was made clear that no decision would be made that night, as written and other comments would be accepted 15 days after the date of the hearing. The written comments received at the hearing as well as the transcribed public comments would be entered into the record and then reviewed at the end of this period.

"People have the right to protect themselves," said William Bell, a member of the Delaware Concealed Carry Coalition.

Although this was not a question-and-answer style forum, those speaking raised a lot of requests for answers on specific parts of this new proposal. The questions were only to bring these concerns to the attention of the panel as well as consideration in the review.

The proposed amendments, which are available both online and at DNREC offices in Dover, seemed to leave a lot of room for confusion and requests for clarification. "Why should those who have gone through the process of obtaining these licenses and training be subject to background checks?" asked Bell regarding law enforcement's ability to stop or detain firearm carriers in the park.

"Why take a gun to a park?" asked Barry Townsend, a concerned citizen. He also pointed that risks are raised, and these lands are intended for users to have fun and enjoy. Contrary to Townsend's comment, Aubrey Brown of Delaware Concealed Carry Coalition said, "Parks are a place of fun, but things have changed." He also spoke about recent gun violence, and the recent active shooter drill that was held at his church and a few other churches.

"Laws will not stop criminals," he added.

Three workshops were held throughout Delaware to give people a chance to ask questions, and many of those in attendance did.

Ann Powell, who attended one of the workshops in New Castle, requested increased land area in the restricted, "grossly disproportionate" safety zones, asked that buffer zones be added, and areas where children are present be included.

Of the 20 people who took the microphone, it was clear that many were completely opposed to this new regulation, citing previous laws restricting firearms completely, while others were in agreement with the new proposal, citing their right to protect themselves.