New Federal Firearms Law Takes Effect Pipestone National Monument
Pipestone National Monument Superintendent Glen Livermont announced that effective February 22, 2010 a change in federal law will allow people who can legally possess firearms under federal, Minnesota, and local laws to carry firearms in PipestoneNational Monument.
The new federal law, P.L. 111-24, Section 512, Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009,makes possession of firearms in all National Park Service areas subject to the firearms laws of the state and communities where the parks are located.
“The National Park Service has been working closely with local, state, and federal officials to ensure that we clearly understand the provisions of the laws that will now apply to our visitors when they are in the park,” said Superintendent Glen Livermont. “We encourage every visitor who may wish to bring firearms to the park to do their research ahead of time and ensure that they are aware of and abide by the laws that apply. Our goal is to provide safe, enjoyable park visits for everyone, and to preserve this very special place for people today and future generations.”
The new federal law has no effect on existing laws and regulations regarding the use of firearms in national parks, such as hunting. Hunting will continue to be prohibited in Pipestone National Monument. Federal law also prohibits all firearms in federal facilities, such as the monument visitor center; these facilities will be posted with appropriate notices at public entrances. Minnesota state law prohibits the possession of rifles, shotguns or BB/pellet guns in public places, which includes all of Pipestone National Monument.
“For nearly 100 years, the mission of the National Park Service has been to protect and preserve the parks and to help all visitors enjoy them,” National Park Service Director Jon Jarvis said. “We will administer this law as we do all others - fairly and consistently. “
For more information about implementation of this new federal law please visit the Monument website at www.nps.gov/pipe for links to Minnesota state firearms laws. Superintendent Livermont also encourages anyone with questions to contact him at 507-825-5464.
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Last updated: April 10, 2015