The Vermont state Constitution, first drafted in 1777, was revolutionary in the liberties it granted citizens of the state.
It was the first to ban adult slavery, freeing every slave at either 18 or 21, according to sex. It gives the right to personal property and the just preservation of such. It places power in the hands of the average person with the specific limitations of government/officials it prescribes. The Vermont Constitution also grants, without doubt, the right to bear arms for both the defense of self and the state.
It is not a question of political preference. Vermont citizens have the legal right, by both country and state, to own and carry firearms to the capacity that may be used not only for self-defense, but to defend the state. That means that restrictions on magazine capacity, firearm calibers, and even the formation of citizen militias are, by fact and not opinion, illegal. Although Vermont has passed some restrictions, they are unlawful.
Recently, an article was published expressing concerns individuals have living near a popular shooting range in West Pawlet, and the concerns aren’t all with the owner. Some feel uncomfortable with firearms, and that is fine, but as Vermont residents we must understand that it is well within our rights and liberties to own and practice using firearms on private property where there is no ordinance in place.
Chelsea Magwire
West Topsham
