In Colorado, the State Senate last week voted to concur with the House on SB13-241, the Hemp Freedom Act.  If the bill becomes law, Colorado will nullify unconstitutional federal laws and regulations which ban farmers from growing hemp. Currently, the United States is the world’s largest importer of Hemp (with China and Canada the top two exporters in the world), and the Colorado legislature wants their citizens to be allowed to participate and profit in this market.

The federal government has no constitutional authority to ban the production of this industrial plant, but has persisted in preventing its domestic production.  The result?  Products with hemp that are readily available at your local grocery store must be imported from another country – resulting in higher costs for you and fewer farming jobs in America.

The United States is the only developed nation that fails to cultivate industrial hemp as an economic crop, according to the Congressional Resource Service.  Recent congressional research indicates that the hemp market consists of over 25,000 various products. The same research found that America imports over $400 million worth of hemp from other countries.  At this time of economic difficulty, 13-241 would not only expand freedom and support the Constitution, it would also be a great jobs bill.  It now goes to the Governor’s desk for a signature

Get model legislation, the Hemp Freedom Act, for introduction in your area at tracking.tenthamendmentcenter.com/hemp

In Missouri, the State House voted to send Governor Jay Nixon what could arguably be the strongest defense against federal gun control measures in American history.  The vote was 116-38.  HB436, introduced by Representative Doug Funderburk in February, was initially passed by the House in April by a vote of 115-42.  The State Senate approved the bill with an amendment which did not change any of its nullification aspects. The vote there was 26-6.  The bill then needed one final vote in the house which happened late last week.

The votes in both the House and Senate are by a strong veto-proof majority. Governor Jay Nixon can sign the bill into law, let it become law without signing or have his veto overridden by the legislature.  In all three situations, the bill would become law by July 1st, 2013.

As law, HB436 would nullify virtually every federal gun control measure on the books – or planned for the future.   It reads, in part:

All federal acts, laws, orders, rules, and regulations, whether past, present, or future, which infringe on the people’s right to keep and bear arms as guaranteed by the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution and Article I, Section 23 of the Missouri Constitution shall be invalid in this state, shall not be recognized by this state, shall be specifically rejected by this state, and shall be considered null and void and of no effect in this state.

The immediate effect of the law would be as follows:

1.  All state and local law enforcement would be required to stop enforcing, or even providing any assistance in enforcing, federal gun control measures – all of them.

2.  Grassroots activists should immediately start pressing local governments – county, city and town – to pass an ordinance which a) states an unwavering dedication to the new law passed, and b) requires all local law enforcement and all government assets to immediately cease in the enforcement of federal gun control measures.

3.  Eric Holder will likely send a letter to threaten the state if it decides to enforce the penalty provisions of the act.

4.  Other states will gain the courage to follow the lead started by Kansas, and now Missouri – and pass similar laws.

Track the status of these and similar bills in states around the country at tracking.tenthamendmentcenter.com/2nd

In neighboring Kansas, which started the ball rolling when Governor Brownback signed the 2nd Amendment Protection Act into law last month, local communities are getting involved to ensure that the new law has maximum effect.

Commissioners in Butler and Seward Counties along with the city council in Herndon let the Kansas state government know they have their backs when it comes to blocking federal infringements on the right to keep and bear arms.  Each local community took the first step forward recently by passing resolutions in support of the new state law.  The strongest resolution came from Seward county, which reads in part:

No agency of the Board of County Commissioners of Seward County, Kansas, or person in the employ of Seward County, Kansas shall enforce, provide material support for, or participate in any way in the enforcement of any act, law, treaty, order, rule or regulation of the government of the United States regarding personal firearms, firearm accessories, or ammunition with the boundaries of Seward County; that the State determines is unconstitutional.

The new 2nd Amendment Protection Act has already determined that any federal law on firearms would be unconstitutional if it were considered the same when Kansas joined the union in 1861.  In other words, Seward County Kansas has now resolved to refuse to enforce virtually every federal gun law or regulation on the books today.

A similar resolution was passed by a close 3-2 vote in McCleod County, Minnesota.  It reads, “The McLeod County Board of Commissioners resolves that all federal acts, laws, orders, rules, regulations – past, present or future – in violation of the 2nd Amendment to the Constitution of the United States are not authorized by the Constitution of the United States and violate its true meaning and intent as given by the Founders and Ratifiers; and are hereby declared to be invalid in this county, shall not be recognized by this county, are specifically rejected by this county, and shall be considered null and void and of no effect in this county.”

This is a great step forward for local communities, where individual activists are likely to have the greatest effect.  The next step would be for each of these communities to consider a similar proposal in the form of an ordinance, making the prohibition on local enforcement a matter of law.

To get model legislation for your county, city or town, visit tenthamendmentcenter.com/2ndamendmentpreservation

In South Carolina, the State house gave preliminary approval to H3101, the so-called Obamacare nullification bill.  If passed into law, the bill would authorize the state to interpose in protection of the people of the state.  It reads, in part:

“The General Assembly of South Carolina has the absolute and sovereign authority to interpose and refuse to enforce the provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 that exceed the authority of the Congress.”

H3101 also takes direct aim at the Supreme Court, affirming the view that the several states have not only an interest, but a role in determining the constitutionality of acts of the federal government, including those of the courts.  The bill continues:

“the judicial decision of the United States Supreme Court upholding the constitutionality of the “Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act” directly contravenes Article I, Section 1 of the United States Constitution because, in upholding the law by re-characterizing the Act as a tax even though Congress specifically refused to identify it as a tax, the United States Supreme Court legislated new law in violation of Article I, Section 1 of the United States Constitution”

The vote in the South Carolina House was 65-34.  It will now be scheduled for a 3rd and final reading and vote in the coming days, which is more of a formality than anything.  The bill will then move to the state senate for concurrence.  South Carolina residents are encouraged to contact their state senator today to urge them to co-sponsor H3101.

While South Carolina is making moves to nullify Obamacare head on, other states are grappling with decisions that could pull the rug out from under the unconstitutional federal act – most notably, whether or not to expand medicaid.  Rob Natelson is urging states to reject the expansion as “an important step toward more fiscal sanity and physical health.”  And CATO Institute’s Michael Cannon has an op-ed column in the Indianapolis Star taking apart each of the arguments in favor of expansion.   He concludes by writing, “The expansion would only worsen Medicaid’s pre-existing conditions, which include fraud, abuse, poor access to care, crowded emergency rooms, inefficient care, high taxes, deficit spending and dependence on government. No wonder supporters want to distract voters from how much the expansion would cost and how little it would help.”

On the right to keep and bear arms, it’s states that are stepping up with a concrete line of defense.  On the heels of Kansas signing into law a bill that would nullify a large number of federal gun control measures, the Missouri legislature is on the verge of upping the ante.  House Bill 436, the 2nd Amendment Preservation Act, already passed the state house by a wide veto-proof majority.  It’s being fast-tracked through the Senate for concurrence and a final vote is expected as early as Monday.  If passed into law, HB436  would nullify virtually every federal gun control measure on the books – or planned for the future.   It reads, in part:

“All federal acts, laws, orders, rules, and regulations, whether past, present, or future, which infringe on the people’s right to keep and bear arms as guaranteed by the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution and Article I, Section 23 of the Missouri Constitution shall be invalid in this state, shall not be recognized by this state, shall be specifically rejected by this state, and shall be considered null and void and of no effect in this state.”

For more information and action steps you can take in support of this legislation, go to tenthamendmentcenter.com/missouriHB436

On the federal level, Joe Wolverton reports in The New American that CISPA, the Cyber Information Sharing and Protection Act, is reportedly dead, for now, as the Senate will not take the bill up for debate.  Wolverton notes that although supporters of freedom should breathe a sigh of relief, they should recognize that trouble is still on the horizon.  He writes, “although CISPA seems unlikely to reach the Senate floor, it is almost certain that some sort of cybersecurity legislation will soon squeeze its way onto the agenda, especially in light of President Obama’s insistence that “the cyber threat is one of the most serious economic and national security challenges we face as a nation” and that “America’s economic prosperity in the 21st century will depend on cybersecurity.”

Wolverton continues, “In this case, as with so many other federal programs that are steadily and stealthily chipping away at our civil liberties that are the very foundation of our Republic, the will in Washington is to place every aspect of the lives of every American under the close watch of the federal government. Accordingly, although it might be on the back burner for now, it is almost certain that CISPA or something like it will be revived with its many unconstitutional provisions altered only just enough to garner majority support in Congress.”

While Congress continues to press forward with ways to spy on you, there are legislators in a number of states working to ban warrantless spying by drones.  Bills have been introduced in over two dozen states.  And, just last week, two were sent to governor’s desks for a signature.  Florida Governor Rick Scott signed Senate Bill 92 into law, and Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam is expected to sign a bill to severely restrict drone capabilities in his state as well.  And, even in California, an anti-drone bill is moving forward, with a vote in the full state assembly expected soon.

AB1327  introduced by Jeff Gorell, would require law enforcement agencies to obtain a warrant before using an unmanned aerial system to collect evidence relating to criminal activity. The bill was approved by the state Assembly’s Public Safety Committee last Tuesday.

Among other safeguards, the bill would require law enforcement agencies to obtain a warrant based on probable cause before using a drone to collect evidence. Exceptions would include emergencies such as a hostage crisis, fire, hot pursuit of a suspected criminal or search-and-rescue operation over land or water. It would allow cities and counties to enact even more restrictive policies if they choose to do so. Gorell described the bill as “pretty restrictive.”

Track the status of these and similar bills in states around the country at http://tracking.tenthamendmentcenter.com/drones

In Alaska, a bill to nullify the Real ID act of 2005 is sitting on Governor Parnell’s desk.  HB69 expands on legislation passed in 2008 to ensure that “A state or municipal agency may not use or authorize the use of an asset to implement or aid in the implementation of” the Real ID Act.  In other words, since the unconstitutional federal law requires the states to carry it out, it won’t be happening in Alaska.

In Florida, a rare victory for supporters of liberty.  Senate bill 92 has passed both the state house and senate unanimously and is being sent to Governor Rick Scott for a signature.  If signed into law, SB92 would prohibit any law enforcement agency from using unmanned drones to gather evidence or other information without a warrant. The bill opens the door for any person whose privacy is violated by a drone to take civil action and would also make any evidence gathered in violation of the act inadmissible in court.  Read more about this legislation, and the arguments both in favor and against it, at tenthamendmentcenter.com/floridaSB92

The Illinois state house passed a similar bill to nullify warrantless drone spying by a vote of 52-1 last Thursday.  Sponsoring Sen. Daniel Biss told colleagues the “people of Illinois have a reasonable expectation for privacy.”  He continued, “The technology available to law enforcement agencies is evolving rapidly.  I want Illinois to take a pro-active approach – recognizing that drones can make police work more efficient and keep officers out of harm’s way, but also acknowledging the potential threat they pose to individual liberties.”

The day prior, the Illinois house also voted to nullify unconstitutional federal laws on marijuana.  In a highly-partisan, divided vote, House Bill 1 was passed and sent along to the State Senate for concurrence.  The final tally was 61-57.

In Missouri, the State House passed HB436 by a strong veto-proof majority.  By a vote of 115-42, they approved legislation which would nullify virtually every federal gun control measure.  It reads, in part:

“All federal acts, laws, orders, rules, and regulations, whether past, present, or future, which infringe on the people’s right to keep and bear arms as guaranteed by the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution and Article I, Section 23 of the Missouri Constitution shall be invalid in this state, shall not be recognized by this state, shall be specifically rejected by this state, and shall be considered null and void and of no effect in this state.”

HB436 now moves to the State senate, where passage is likely.  The tough battle for supporters is to ensure that it receives a veto-proof majority there as well.  Governor Nixon will never sign such a bill.  Get details on what you can do at:  tenthamendmentcenter.com/missouriHB436

In Louisiana, a bill that seeks to nullify unconstitutional federal gun control measures on semi-automatic weapons, accessories and ammunition – including registration – was passed out of committee last week in a tight vote.  The tally was 8-6.  House Bill 5 now moves to the full state house where it will get a third reading and final vote on Tuesday, April 23rd.

Tenth Amendment Center communications director Mike Maharrey expressed his support.  He said, “This is a great first step. People in Louisiana don’t want D.C. messing with their guns. The feds think they can pretty much regulate anything, and this simply isn’t true when you understand the intent of the Constitution.”

Here on the West Coast, it’s round 2 in the battle between California and NDAA indefinite detention.  On April 9th, the California Assembly Public Safety Committee voted unanimously in favor of Assembly Bill 351, the California Liberty Preservation Act.   The bill has now been assigned to the Assembly Committee on Appropriations with a hearing and vote scheduled for May 1, 2013.

Introduced by Republican Assemblymember Tim Donnelly, AB351 is a strong stand against “indefinite detention” as supposedly authorized by the National Defense Authorization Act of 2012.  It declares such federal power to be unconstitutional and also requires the entire state to refuse to enforce or assist its implementation.  A broad coalition officially supported the legislation and moved the normally partisan, and strongly democratic, committee to support the republican-introduced legislation.

The appropriations committee is going to be an even tougher path, but an endless stream of strong, but respectful phone calls to committee members in favor is likely to give the bill a chance of passing.  California residents are encouraged to get involved to support this bill right now.  Get all the details at tenthamendmentcenter.com/supportAB351

In closing, here at the Tenth Amendment Center, our thoughts go out to the victims of the criminal acts in Boston – and to all those who were frozen in fear due to the response that ensued.   Benjamin Gross – legal coordinator for the Pennsylvania Tenth Amendment Center completed his fourth Boston Marathon and was literally just blocks away when the explosions went off.   We’re extremely grateful that Benjamin made it out safely.  Over the weekend, he put together his thoughts on the situation with a short article.  He said, “”I believe in justice served and do not lament the ultimate fates of the men who terrorized the 117th Boston Marathon. But a Constitution that is so easily torn asunder in moments of popular angst will be impotent in protecting the liberty that very long ago made it and our nation unique.”  Please take a moment to read the rest at tenthamendmentcenter.com/boston

Governors in three states have nullification bills sitting on their desks.  First, in Alaska, Governor Parnell has a 2nd Amendment Preservation Act awaiting his signature.  HB69 was passed by a 34-5 vote in the House, and by 17-3 in the Senate.  If Parnell signs it into law, the entire state would be required to stand down on enforcement of federal acts in violation of the 2nd amendment.  It reads, in part:

“A state or municipal agency may not use or authorize the use of an asset to implement or aid in the implementation of a requirement of (1) an order of the President of the United States, a federal regulation, or a law enacted by the United States Congress that is applied to (A) infringe on a person’s right, under the Second Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, to keep and bear arms”

This is a VERY effective method to stop the federal government from infringing the right to keep and bear arms within Alaska. It’s a known fact that a vast majority of federal enforcement actions rely on state and local assets in order to have the manpower and resources to carry them out.  As Judge Andrew Napolitano has said recently, such widespread noncompliance would make federal gun laws “nearly impossible to enforce”

In Maryland, Governor O’Malley is sitting on HB1101, a bill that would legalize medical marijuana, effectively nullifying unconstitutional federal laws banning the same.  The bill passed the house by a vote of 108-28, and the Senate passed it by a vote of 42-4.  O’Malley has pledged to sign the bill, which would authorize a very limited program in defiance of the feds.  Maryland would become the 19th state to do so.

Montana Governor Steve Bullock, who already vetoed a 2nd amendment Preservation Act, now has an NDAA nullification bill sitting on his desk.  House Bill 522 passed by a strong veto-proof majority.  The House voted 98-0 and the Senate voted 43-7.

If Bullock signs it into law, or the legislature overrides his veto, HB522 would ban compliance with any assistance for NDAA “indefinite detention”.   It reads:

The state of Montana may not provide material support or participate with the implementation of sections 1021 and 1022 of the federal National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012, within the boundaries of this state.

While the federal government may claim the authority to still carry out these unconstitutional acts on their own, facts on the ground show that when states and local communities refuse to assist them, they simply don’t have the manpower, and focus their enforcement efforts on those areas where they get willing help.  This is a first step, but a big one, for Montana against the unconstitutional “indefinite detention” powers of the NDAA.

In Missouri, two bills protecting property rights and nullifying Agenda 21 provisions overwhelmingly passed each chamber of the state legislature recently.

HB42 passed the State House with a vote of 113 to 42 last Wednesday. On the Senate Side, Brian Nieves sponsored the companion bill. SB265 passed the  Senate, with a vote of 24 to 9 on April 4.  The bill prohibits the adoption or implementation of any policy or regulation that deliberately or inadvertently infringes or restricts private property rights without due process, and more specifically prohibits any policy recommendations that originate in or are traceable to Agenda 21, along with any other international law or ancillary plan of action that contravenes the Constitution of the United States or the Missouri Constitution.

It reads, in part: “…the State of Missouri and all political subdivisions are prohibited from entering in any agreement with, expending any sum of money for, receiving funds from, contracting services from, or giving financial aid to those nongovernmental and intergovernmental organizations as defined in Agenda 21…”

And, in closing today, a number of other states will be considering nullification legislation this week.  In Missouri, HB436 is a bill that would nullify every federal gun control measure on the books.  It’s even stronger than the powerful SB102 that’s sitting on Governor Brownback’s desk in Kansas.  The state house is expected to vote on the bill this week.  Support it at tenthamendmentcenter.com/missouriHB436

In Maine, a bill to nullify unconstitutional federal bans on industrial hemp farming passed an important committee and should be coming up for a vote in the full state house soon.  In New Hampshire, State Representative Dan Itse’s Liberty Preservation Act to nullify NDAA indefinite detention is coming up for a Senate Hearing on Tuesday after passing the state house by a wide margin.  Support that bill at tenthamendmentcenter.com/supportHB399.

And in Texas, a number of bills are moving forward.  State Representative David Simpson’s Travel Freedom Act had a committee hearing last week and should get a vote as soon as Wednesday.  HB80 would nullify unconstitutional acts by the TSA and has gotten significant grassroots support on this second attempt by Simpson to protect the 4th Amendment in the state’s airports.  The 2nd Amendment Preservation Act, HB928, moved out of committee and is set to be debated in the calendars committee, which determines when the full state house will consider the bill.

Late into the night last Friday, the Kansas State Legislature was debating its final bills before the close of the 2013 legislative session.   The final vote of the year was on Senate Bill 102, formerly House Bill 2199.  Both the house and senate gave final approval to the 2nd Amendment Protection Act, and the bill will now go to Governor Brownback’s desk for a signature.

The House passed the bill by a vote of 96-24, and the Senate voted 35-4.  During the Senate vote, one Senator exclaimed, “Passage of SB102 means that 2nd and 10th Amendment are alive and well in Kansas.”

If signed into law, SB102 would nullify a wide range of federal attacks on the right to keep and bear arms in the State of Kansas.  It read, in part:  “Any act, law, treaty, order, rule or regulation of the government of the United States which violates the second amendment to the constitution of the United States is null, void and unenforceable in the state of Kansas”

Brownback will have ten days to sign or veto the bill after transmittal, which is expected to happen as early as Monday.  With a veto-proof majority and strong grassroots support, the Governor will be in a difficult position on this bill, as major national forces are expected to pressure him to oppose it.

For more details on this nullification bill passing, visit tenthamendmentcenter.com/kansas102

In Arizona, the state house passed HB2573 last Thursday.  By a tally of 34-24, they voted to nullify NDAA indefinite detention and Agenda 21 in the same bill.  HB2573 forbids any state or local cooperation with NDAA indefinite detention.  As Judge Andrew Napolitano has said recently, widespread noncompliance like this by state can make a federal law “nearly impossible to enforce”

During the final House debates on the bill, sponsor Rep. Carl Seel proposed an amendment to also include language blocking state and local cooperation with Agenda 21 as well.  This caused some partisan divide, but the house still approved it.

In Missouri  last Thursday, the State House voted to place severe limitations on the use of drones in that state.  HB46, introduced by Representative Casey Guernsey, came up for a third and final reading and vote on April 4th.  It passed by a surprisingly close vote of 87-66.  It now goes to the State Senate for concurrence.

If signed into law, HB46 would ban drone surveillance without a warrant, or without permission of the person or property owner being surveilled.

While the bill does leave a few small openings for drone use in emergency situations where life is “in imminent danger,” or by universities for research, the vast majority of potential drone use in the state would be eliminated under this bill.  Passage of HB46 would put a huge dent in federal plans to convince Missouri to set up a network of spy drones.

This week, a number of big nullification bills are up for hearings and votes.  First, in South Carolina, H3101, which is a bill to nullify Obamacare, will get a hearing and likely vote in the House Judiciary committee.  It recently passed out of a subcommittee, and faces a tough but winnable road in the full committee.  The bill reads, in part:

The General Assembly declares that the federal law known as the “Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act”, signed by President Barack Obama on March 23, 2010, is not authorized by the Constitution of the United States and violates its true meaning and intent as given by the Founders and Ratifiers, and is invalid in this State, is not recognized by this State, is specifically rejected by this State, and is null and void and of no effect in this State.”

The bill also provides for essential teeth – an enforcement mechanism codified in law – to prevent the enforcement of the unconstitutional federal act within the state:

“It is the duty of the General Assembly to adopt and enact all measures as may be necessary to prevent the enforcement of the ‘Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act’ within the limits of this State.”

No such bill – nothing even close – has been passed by any state in modern American history AFTER the Supreme Court gave their opinion on the constitutionality of a federal act.  This is an historic bill with massive implications nationally.   For more details and what you can do to help this bill pass, visit tenthamendmentcenter.com/supportH3101

In Illinois on Wednesday,SB1587 will get a third and final reading and vote in the State Senate.  The legislation is similar to Missouri’s HB46, and would ban warrantless drone spying within the state.  It previously passed the State Senate Committee on Criminal Law with a 7-2 vote, and inside sources tell us that it’s going to be a close vote on Wednesday.

And in Sacramento, California on Tuesday, the State Assembly Public Safety Committee will have a hearing and vote on AB351.  If passed into law, AB351 would ban compliance or enforcement of NDAA “indefinite detention”.   It reads, in part:

“Sections 1021 and 1022 of the NDAA codifies indefinite military detention without charge or trial of civilians captured far from any battlefield, violating the United States Constitution and corroding our nation’s commitment to the rule of law…”

“It is the policy of this state to refuse to provide material support for or to participate in any way with the implementation within this state of any federal law that purports to authorize indefinite detention of a person within California.”

This would make a HUGE dent in any effort to further restrict due process – and would be a big step forward for the state.  Passage in California could send shockwaves around the rest of the country – encouraging other blue states to follow their lead.

Recognizing that all political efforts need support from the ground up, a number of Local communities are beginning to take the lead in the nullification movement.    In League City, Texas, City Council member Heidi Thiess is taking her oath to the constitution seriously.  In February, the council passed a 2nd Amendment Preservation Resolution by a vote of 7-1.  And last week, she presented a Liberty Preservation Resolution – in response to NDAA kidnapping powers – to the council as well.  It also passed by a vote of 7-1.

The resolution reads, in part: “[We] instruct all our public agencies to decline requests by federal agencies acting under detention powers granted by the NDAA that could infringe upon residents’ freedom of speech, religion, assembly, privacy, or rights to counsel”

As Judge Andrew Napolitano has said recently, such widespread noncompliance can make a federal law “nearly impossible to enforce.

Theiss isn’t working to pass such resolutions as some kind of political theater – she’s recognizing the need to build support for such efforts locally, which will increase the chances of doing the same at the state level.  In fact, the very next day, she went to Austin to testify in support of Texas House Bill 149, a bill introduced by State Representative Lyle Larsen to nullify NDAA indefinite detention throughout the state.

Other local communities are taking similar steps.  Resolutions in support of the 2nd Amendment and the right to keep and bear arms have passed in Lee County, FL, Susquehanna County, PA, East Coventry Township, PA and Carter County, TN.  In the latter, we heard from a resident there the power of individuals to make a difference.

Cathy, a Carter County, Tennessee resident wrote this:

Last month, our county commission (Carter County, TN) voted down (8 to 7) the 2nd Amendment Resolution model legislation that my husband and I had given the county mayor.

So, yesterday morning, my husband went to the monthly Commission meeting with a speech he had written about nullification.  At first, they said he couldn’t speak because the issue had already been defeated.  After one of the commissioners said “I’d like to hear what he has to say,” Joe gave his 2 minute presentation and to make a very long story a bit shorter…he got hearty applause from citizens and commissioners alike, they revoted and it PASSED 16 to 2.

He had never addressed a political meeting like this, stayed awake half the night worried about it, and I almost talked him out of going.  But, ONE MAN, with the FACTS on Nullification, made a difference.

So the only correction that needs to be made to your statement is “one man AND one woman armed with the facts made a difference.”  Congratulations Cathy and Joe, you’ve helped lead a great first step towards protecting the right to keep and bear arms.

The Tenth Amendment Center is currently in the very early stages of putting together a local activism resource kit.  This will help you go through all the steps needed to build a successful local campaign in support of nullification.   In the meantime, get model legislation that can be introduced in your local community on various issues at http://tenthamendmentcenter.com/local

In Oregon tomorrow, the State House Judiciary committee will hold a hearing on House Bill 3371.  This is a very broad bill that would nullify virtually all federal laws on marijuana and industrial hemp.  That same committee will also be holding a hearing on HB2710, a bill to nullify warrantless drone spying.

In Kansas, House Bill 2199 passed out of the Senate Committee on Federal and State Affairs last week.  After passing the House by a vote of 94-29, the full Senate will now have a chance to concur.  Establishment forces are working to weaken the bill, which in its current state would nullify virtually every federal gun law on the books, but the grassroots have been pushing on to keep it in its current form.  It’s likely that no matter what passes in Kansas, Governor Brownback will have on his desk one of the strongest nullification bills in support of the right to keep and bear arms – in history.  Get more information on how you can support this bill at http://tenthamendmentcenter.com/kansasHB2199

And in Oklahoma this week, likely on Wednesday the 3rd, the State Senate appropriations committee will be voting on HB1021 – a bill to Nullify Obamacare.   The legislation not only declares the entire Affordable Care Act to be a violation of the Constitution, it makes it a requirement for the state to block its enforcement.  It reads, in part:

“It shall be the duty of the Legislature of this state to adopt and enact any and all measures as may be necessary to prevent the enforcement of the “Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act” and the “Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010” within the limits of this state.”

The bill was in big trouble in Senator Griffin’s rules committee, but that’s turning around. According to the group Oklahoma Freedom, grassroots pressure has been helping.    A recent alert they sent out said the following:

“State Senator Griffin has received hundreds of calls/email/visits about the Obamacare nullification bill, HB1021. Even though Sen. Griffin had earlier expressed her disapproval of this bill she has since worked with Senator Dahm to ensure the bill complies with Senate rules and has not even bothered to bring it up in the Senate Rules Committee. Instead, Sen. Griffin has simply sent it along its way to the next step; the Appropriations Committee.”

To get more details and find out what actions you can take right now to support Obamacare nullification in Oklahoma, visit http://tenthamendmentcenter.com/oklahomaHB1021

Last week in Southwest Utah, the Iron County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously in passing an Iron County 2nd Amendment Protection Resolution.  This is the second Resolution passed in the county, the first being the Cedar City 2nd Amendment Resolution passed by the City Council in February.

The Resolution makes it clear that the county does not recognize any federal acts, laws, orders, rules, executive orders, or regulations that violate the 2nd Amendment of the US Constitution.  It also requires the sheriff to take a stand to protect the right to keep and bear arms.  It reads, in part:

“it shall be the duty of the Sheriff of Iron County to take all measures as may be necessary to prevent the enforcement of any federal acts, laws, orders, rules, or regulations in violation of the 2nd Amendment to the Constitution of the United States.”

Iron County Sheriff Mark Gower is fully on board with the resolution.  He said, “I will not allow anyone to come into this county and violate the Constitutions of the United States or Utah.  If I have to stand in the street and stop that from happening I would do it.”  He further said, “I have refused to sign any agreements or contracts with Homeland Security or any other federal department and no one can come in and preempt the local control of our law enforcement. The US Constitution will not be violated on my watch.”

In Maine, the town of Millinocket also passed a 2nd Amendment resolution last week.  Town Councilors Jimmy Busque and Michelle Anderson both explained the importance of this Resolution to those present. Busque explained the importance of the resolution and why its passage was required, followed by Anderson discussing the history of nullification.   The resolution passed by a vote of 5-2.

A similar resolution is being considered on Monday night in Upper Pottsgrove, Pennsylvania.  It would 1) Condemn federal overreach and infringement upon the Right of the Individual to Keep and Bear Arms; 2) Express support for, and urge immediate passage of PA House Bill 357 and 3) Reserve the right of the Township to take measures necessary to prevent enforcement of federal acts regarding the Right of the Individual to Keep and Bear Arms.

Also in Maine, the town of Brooksville held a public referendum in support of a Food Freedom Ordinance, which nullifies unconstitutional overreach from the FDA.  The ordinance exempts “producers and processors” of local foods in town from state and federal licensure and inspection, so long as they leave the middleman out and sell their produce, baked goods, dairy and meat directly to customers.  It passed by a vote of 112-64.

Activists point out that quite a bit can be done by just a single person.  The efforts in both Cedar City and Iron County, Utah were spearheaded by one man, Sylvan Malis.  He said, “This is only the beginning.  There are still many issues that need addressing and many resolutions that need passing.  After the resolutions come laws.  If we value our country like we say we do then get up and call or talk to your neighbor, family member, workmate and then call your city council person, your county commissioner or county supervisor, and get them working on passing the resolutions, ordinances, and laws.  If I did it, you can too; anyone can do it!  It’s easy!”

For model legislation that you can introduce in your area, visit http://tenthamendmentcenter.com/local

On the state level, there are a number of important hearings and potential votes on nullification bills this week.

In South Carolina, S92 the NDAA Nullification of 2013 from Senator Tom Davis, is finally moving forward.  The Senate Republicans set the bill for special order this week, which means it will be given priority status for debate and a possible vote.

Also in South Carolina, H3101, to nullify Obamacare is up for a do-or-die hearing in the State house on Wednesday.  Conservative icon Walter E. Williams will make it hard for republicans to consider voting against the bill as we will be on hand testifying in favor of the legislation.   South Carolina legislators won’t be alone, as the Oklahoma house beat them to the punch on the issue.  Last week, they voted 72-20 to pass HB1021, the Obamacare nullification bill for their state.

On Monday in Arizona, SB1439 which already passed the State Senate, will be heard in the state house committee on financial institutions.  The bill is a big step towards nullifying the federal reserve as it authorizes gold and silver coin to be used as legal tender within the state.

In Michigan on Tuesday, a bill to nullify NDAA indefinite detention will be heard in the state house oversight committee.  SB94 already passed the Senate by a vote of 37-0 and committee chair, Representative Tom McMillin authored the house companion bill, HB4138.

On Wednesday in Nebraska, LB451 is being heard in the State Judiciary Committee.  The bill would prohibit enforcement of federal bans or restrictions on semi-automatic weapons and large capacity magazines.  It would also prohibit enforcement of federal acts requiring registration of firearms, magazines, or accessories.

Track the status of these and all other nullification bills in states around the country at http://tracking.tenthamendmentcenter.com

In Utah last week, State Representative Brian Greene’s 2nd Amendment Preservation Act passed the state house by a wide margin, 49-17.  HB114 states, in part: “An officer or employee of the federal government may not enforce or attempt to enforce any federal statute, order, rule, or regulation relating to the intrastate ownership, possession, sale, or transfer of a personal firearm, a firearm accessory, ammunition, or ammunition component.”

In other words, this bill is a big first step towards nullifying ALL federal gun laws, rules, regulations and orders on firearms owned within the state of Utah.  But there’s just days left in the state legislative session, and inside sources tell us that State Republican leadership is working behind the scenes to kill the bill.  HB114 is being held up and leadership is not wanting to allow it to come to a vote. Residents of Utah can turn this around with a phone call to their state Senator right now.  For more details, visit http://tenthamendmentcenter.com/supportHB114

In Arizona, two republican state senators are siding with the Obama administration by blocking passage of SB1112.  This legislation is similar to Utah’s HB114 in that it bans enforcement of federal gun laws, orders, rules and regulations on firearms within the state.  It also provides for felony charges for federal agents attempting to enforce them within Arizona.

Arizona state senators Adam Driggs and John McComish are siding with the Obama administration by blocking this bill.  They’re saying that stopping the federal government from violating the 2nd Amendment is somehow unconstitutional.  And they’re preventing SB1112 from going to the full Arizona Senate for a vote.   Arizona residents only should call these state senators and demand that they allow SB1112 to get an up or down vote in the State Senate.

In Montana, a close call, but some good news.  HB302, introduced in that state by representative Krayton Kerns, is a bill to ban state and local compliance with federal gun control measures on semi-automatice firearms and large capacity magazines.  It passed the State House by a vote of 56-42, and last week was up for a fierce debate in the State Senate Judiciary committee.  After considerable testimony, where prominent law enforcement official testified in opposition because they didn’t’ want to damage their “relationship with their federal partners,” the committee voted 7-5 to send the bill to the full Senate for concurrence.

Tenth Amendment Center Montana coordinator Tim Ravndal was on hand to testify in favor of HB302, and summed up the view of those supporting quite well.  He told the committee that the state needs to be in a position to head off any future federal gun control measures. “House bill 302 moves us in that direction,” he said.  “It says not just no, but Hell No!”

On Wednesday in Texas, the State House committee on federalism will be hearing eight bills designed to limit or nullify federal power over the right to keep and bear arms.  Most prominent is HB553, which not only cites the Virginia and Kentucky resolutions of 1798, but also nullifies all federal acts, laws, executive orders, agency orders, rules, and regulations pertaining to firearms, firearm accessories and ammunition.  The bill also provides for criminal charges, including a year in prison and $10,000 fine for anyone violating the act.  Also being considered is a fantastic companion bill, HB928.  This bill requires state and local noncompliance with every federal law, rule, regulation, and order on firearms, accessories and ammunition within the state.

Track the status of these and other 2nd Amendment Preservation Acts in states around the country at http://tracking.tenthamendmentcenter.com/2ndamendment

In our next story, state level resistance to drones is advancing.  In North Dakota, the state house passed HB1373, which bans the use of drones without a warrant and bans all weaponized drones as well.  The state house passed the bill by a vote of 60-31.  In Washington State and Illinois, similar bills to restrict and ban drone usage have been approved by committee and will be going forward for full votes in the coming days.

In Washington, HB1771 passed out of committee by a 9-1 vote and the state house rules committee has sent the bill to the full House for debate and vote.  It is not currently on the calendar, but could be voted on any day.  In Illinois, SB1587 was approved by the State Senate Committee on Criminal law by a 7-2 vote.  The bill is now in the full Senate, where it will come up for a 2nd reading on Tuesday the 12th – and a third and final reading and vote shortly thereafter.  Residents in these states are strongly encouraged to contact their own state representative or senator and urge a YES vote.

And in Kansas, on the heels of the Rand Paul filibuster, State Representative Travis Couture-Lovelady introduced HB2394.  This bill would prohibit the use of drones by state or local law enforcement to obtain “evidence or other information.”  It also bans any drone from operating in the state “while carrying a lethal payload.” There is no exception for drones operated by the federal government.

Track the status of drone nullification bills in these and other states around the country at http://tracking.tenthamendmentcenter.com/drones

First on NDAA indefinite detention, there have been a number of state houses  voting on bills to nullify that unconstitutional federal act.  Most prominently, the Montana house last week voted 98-0 to pass HB522.  If signed into law, this bill would make it illegal for Montana to participate in NDAA indefinite detention.  It says, in part: “The state of Montana may not provide material support or participate with the implementation of sections 1021 and 1022 of the federal National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012 within the boundaries of this state.”  HB522 has been transmitted to the Montana Senate and will be going through hearings and votes there in the coming days.

Major NDAA nullification votes will likely be coming up this week in both the New Hampshire House and the Michigan Senate as well.  In New Hampshire, Representative Dan Itse’s liberty preservation act passed out of committee last week, unanimously.  A recent hearing was overflowing with supporters who wanted to testify in favor as well.  A final House vote on HB399 could be as early as this Thursday.  And in Michigan, SB94 passed out of an important Senate Committee last week and should be scheduled for a full Senate vote in the coming daysl.

Strong NDAA nullification bills have now been introduced in both Massachusetts and California as well.  Track the status of NDAA nullification bills in states around the country at http://tracking.tenthamendmentcenter.com/ndaa

In Illinois this Wednesday, a hearing on a bill to nullify drone spying in that state.  Senate Bill 1587 is being heard at 9am in the State Senate committee on Criminal Law.  The bill would prevent law enforcement agencies in the state from using a drone without a warrant signed by a judge.  In Oklahoma last week, a similar bill was passed by the State House Committee on Energy and Aerospace by a vote of 23-4.  HB1556 now moves to the Calendar committee to hopefully get scheduled for a debate and vote in the full state house.

Military-industrial complex lobbyists are going beserk about bills like this in Illinois and other states around the country.  At a recent hearing for a similar bill in Washington State, a drone industry lobbyist confirmed just what we want to know – and what they and the federal government are freaking out about:  requiring warrants and strick public reporting drone use will render them almost unusable.

There are more than 20 states considering similar legislation around the country.  Track the status and get model legislation to introduce in your state at http://tracking.tenthamendmentcenter.com/drones

In Arizona last Thursday, the State Senate voted 17-11 to pass the Constitutional Tender Act.  If passed into law, SB1439 would allow businesses and the state government to accept payments in gold or silver legal tender.

Currently all debts and taxes in Arizona and the rest of the United States are either paid with Federal Reserve Notes (dollars) which were authorized as legal tender by Congress, or with coins issued by the U.S. Treasury — very few of which have gold or silver in them.

The United States Constitution states in Article I, Section 10, “No State shall…make any Thing but gold and silver Coin a Tender in Payment of Debts.” The Constitutional tender act is a big step towards that constitutional requirement which has been ignored for a long time in every state of the country.

In closing today, more states are moving forward with legislation to nullify federal gun laws, acts, rules, regulations and orders.  In Kentucky, SB129 passed the state Senate by a vote of 34-3 and has been transmitted to the house for concurrence.  If passed, SB129 would make state law in Kentucky that “Any federal law, rule, regulation, or order created on or after January 1, 2013…shall be unenforceable within the borders of Kentucky if the law, rule, regulation, order, amendment, or other change attempts to: (a) Ban or restrict ownership of a semi-automatic firearm, magazine, or other firearm accessory; or (b) Require any firearm, magazine, or other firearm accessory to be registered in any manner.”

In Alaska, HB69 passed the state house last Monday by a vote of 31-5.  HB69 states, in part: “A personal firearm, a firearm accessory, or ammunition that is possessed in this state or manufactured commercially or privately in this state and that remains in the state is not subject to federal law or federal regulation, including registration, under the authority of the United States Congress to regulate interstate commerce as those items have not traveled in interstate commerce.”   If passed into law, the bill would also provide for criminal charges for federal agents who violate the act.

State house committees in the neighboring states of Kansas and Missouri also voted to approve 2nd Amendment Preservation Acts.  In Missouri, HB170 specifies that “a federal official must not enforce a federal firearm law when the firearm is manufactured and remains in the state and that any new federal law banning or restricting ownership of a semi-automatic firearm is unenforceable”.  It currently has 60 co-sponsors and should come up for a vote in the state house in the near future.

And in Kansas, HB2199 was passed unanimously out of committee and will be going to a full House vote soon.  With more than 50 cosponsors, HB 2199 declares “any act, law, treaty, order, rule or regulation of the government of the United States which violates the second amendment to the constitution of the United States is null, void and unenforceable in the state of Kansas.”

Track the status of these and other 2nd Amendment Preservation Acts in states around the country at http://tracking.tenthamendmentcenter.com/2ndamendment

In Montana, the State House last week voted to prohibit enforcement of any federal ban on semi-automatic firearms or large capacity magazines.  The vote was 56-42.  House Bill 302 will now move on to the State Senate, where the vote is likely to be close as well.  But inside sources tell us that strong pressure from the grassroots will move the legislation forward to the Governor’s desk.

As some gun manufacturers are facing potential restrictions on their businesses in the states they’re located in, a State House Committee passed a bill that would lay out the welcome mat for gun manufacturers in Oklahoma.  HB2021 would exempt firearms manufactured and remaining in the state of Oklahoma from federal law, federal taxation or federal regulation, including registration.  It passed the Public Safety Committee unanimously.  The vote was 13-0.  It faces one more vote in the Rules committee before moving to the full house for debate and vote.

To get model legislation and to track the status of these and similar bills in states around the country, visit http://tracking.tenthamendmentcenter.com/2nd

Bills to nullify the federal plan to cover American skies with spy drones are beginning to move forward as well.  In Virginia, a 2 year moratorium on the use of drones has been approved by both the state house and senate and is on its way to Governor Bob McDonnell’s desk.  HB2012 passed the state house by a vote of 93-4 and the state senate by a vote of 40-0.  While the ban is only for 2 years, activists feel that this gives them enough breathing room to further educate the public and expand in the near future.

In Washington State, a bill that would severely restrict use of drones permanently – primarily to those situations where a warrant was issued first – passed a State House Committee.  Big hitter corporate lobbyists came out to testify in opposition to the bill, claiming that restricting drone use would be damaging to the economy and could even lead to killers running rampant in the streets.  But the committee wasn’t swayed by their scare tactics, and HB1771 was passed by a vote of 9-1.  It’ll now require one last committee vote before moving to the full house for consideration.

To get model legislation and to track the status of these and similar bills in states around the country, visit http://tracking.tenthamendmentcenter.com/drones

Nullification efforts to resist NDAA “indefinite detention” keep moving forward as well.  In Indiana, SB400, which would require the state to refuse compliance with such unconstitutional federal plans, passed the State Senate by a vote of 31-17.  It now goes on to the state house, where a tough battle is ahead, before it can go to Governor Pence’s desk for a signature.

In Arizona, a similar bill was approved by the State House Judiciary Committee in front of a packed house of people from across the political spectrum.  Support from the people was so strong in favor that the committee chair noted that they would never have time to hear from everyone who signed up to speak in support of the bill, and that only 2 people appeared to be opposed to it.  The committee voted 6-2 in favor.  HB2573 has one final committee vote before going to the full house for consideration.

And in Montana, HB522 is on the fast track to the state senate.  It was given unanimous approval late last week and should get a full house vote soon.  The 20-0 vote once again showed that support for resisting NDAA indefinite detention comes from across the political spectrum, and should be a lesson to legislators in states like South Carolina where nearly identical legislation is split on party lines.

To get model legislation and to track the status of these and similar bills in states around the country, visit http://tracking.tenthamendmentcenter.com/ndaa

Two states last week moved forward with Hemp Freedom Acts.  These bills would authorize the growing and production of industrial hemp, which is used all over the United States right now in products such as clothing, oils, foods, and more.  The Federal government has effectively banned the production of hemp and has forced US consumers to become the world’s largest importer of hemp. The world’s largest exporters? China and Canada.

The Hemp Freedom Act would nullify these unconstitutional acts from the federal government.  New Hampshire’s HB153 was passed out of committee by a vote of 17-2.  And Washington State’s HB1888 passed out of committee by a vote of 8-0.  Both bills have a long way to go in their respective state houses, then state senates – before going off to the governor for a signature, but these votes are a positive sign that legislators and the public alike are showing strong support.

To get model legislation and to track the status of these and similar bills in states around the country, visit http://tracking.tenthamendmentcenter.com/hemp

Only one state last week had a vote on Obamacare Nullification – Oklahoma.  State Representative Mike Ritze’s HB1021 passed out of committee by a vote of 7-3.  HB1021 declares that the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is “not authorized by the Constitution of the United States and violate its true meaning and intent as given by the founders and ratifiers, and is hereby declared to be invalid in the State of Oklahoma, shall not be recognized by this state, is specifically rejected by this state, and shall be considered null and void and of no effect in this state.”

And in Arizona, a State Senate Committee gave approval to the Constitutional Tender Act, a bill which would authorize the use of gold and silver as legal tender in the state.  It would remove any tax penalties against conducting transactions in these metals which are required in Article I, Section 10 of the Constitution.  The vote was close in the Finance Committee, SB1439 moved forward by a vote of 4-3

In closing today, a number of other bills will have important hearings and votes this week.  In Tennessee, it’s do-or-die for twin bills to nullify unconstitutional federal gun laws in that state.  SB250 and HB248 are up for committee hearings and votes this Wednesday which will likely determine their fate.

In Colorado, HB13-1045, the NDAA nullification bill faces a third and final reading and vote in the state house as early as today.

In New Hampshire, HB399, Dan Itse’s NDAA Nullification bill, the Liberty Preservation Act, is expected to get a full house committee vote later this week.  More than 100 showed up in support of the bill at a committee hearing last week and reports are positive towards passage.

In San Francisco, the Board of Commissioners will take up a resolution against indefinite detention on Tuesday February 26th.

Track these – and all other nullification efforts – online at http://tracking.tenthamendmentcenter.com