[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 108 (Tuesday, June 22, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E675]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             THE SECOND AMENDMENT IS ESSENTIAL ACT OF 2021

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                           HON. DAN NEWHOUSE

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 22, 2021

  Mr. NEWHOUSE. Madam Speaker, The Second Amendment Is Essential Act 
will classify, by law, the firearms industry as a ``critical 
infrastructure sector'' and those it employs as ``essential workers'' 
by amending the Homeland Security Act of 2002 and the USA Patriot Act 
of 2001. The changes define any business or employees who manufacture 
or deal firearms and ammunition as critical infrastructure for the 
purposes of federal guidance to States during an emergency.
  The Homeland Security Act of 2002 directed the Administrator of the 
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to establish guidelines for 
States regarding who should constitute ``critical infrastructure 
workers'' in the event of a natural disaster, act of terrorism, or 
other man-made disaster. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, these 
individuals have often been referred to as ``essential workers.''
  Similarly, the USA Patriot Act defined ``critical infrastructure'' as 
``systems and assets, whether physical or virtual, so vital to the 
United States that the incapacity or destruction of such systems and 
assets would have a debilitating impact on security, national economic 
security, national public health or safety, or any combination of those 
matters.''
  Americans' rights, including the right to keep and bear arms, are no 
less essential during a state of emergency. In fact, the right to 
defend one's self and one's home is most essential during a state of 
emergency. Furthermore, states of emergency merit heightened vigilance 
to protect against unnecessary and unconstitutional government 
outreach.
  In 2020, gun sales increased by 64 percent as Americans sought to 
exercise their Second Amendment rights so they could have peace of mind 
during a turbulent time. Firearms manufacturers and dealers should not 
be forced by government to close in a time when demand for their 
products is through the roof. This legislation will ensure that the 
Second Amendment can be freely enjoyed by Americans when they need it 
most: in times of crisis.

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