Those who lived through the stormy debate in 1994 over Wichita’s adoption of a restrictive gun ordinance may have missed the recent action by the Kansas Legislature trumping local control on gun issues. Never mind that Wichita voters upheld the restrictions, including a five-day waiting period for gun purchases, in an advisory vote at the time. The City Council could formally challenge the new state law on the grounds that it infringes on the city’s home rule powers. But this is not the same council as it was in 1994 — in either personnel or political leanings — so it seems likely to acquiesce when the issue comes up at today’s meeting. Naturally, this move comes just as Wichita is experiencing a surge in gang activity, too — one of the reasons behind the ordinance in the first place. It doesn’t seem right that legislators voided the will of Wichitans, never mind the public safety consequences.
Posted by Rhonda Holman
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