West Virginia

Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin has signed off on a controversial bill requiring that cities no longer have stronger gun laws than those of the state and federal government.

"This evening, I signed Senate Bill 317 because I support our 2nd Amendment rights, and I also see the need for uniform and consistent gun laws throughout the state," Tomblin said in a statement. "I believe this legislation will give municipalities clarity for regulating firearms in their facilities.

"I understand the concern of those who have voiced opinions about challenges within the bill related to municipally-owned recreational centers. I will continue to work with local and state officials to address those concerns," Tomblin said.

Last week, after the legislature passed the bill, Charleston City Council voted to eliminate the city's handgun sales ordinance. The ordinance, which limited purchases to one handgun per month and implemented a three-day waiting period on those sales, was instated in 1993 in order to curb a drugs-for-gun-trade between Charleston, the Midwest and the Northeast, as well as decrease the city's high murder rate.

http://www.wvgazette.com/News/201403250181