12/03/2010

The Amtrak ban on guns has been lifted

My guess is that after a few months people will forget that there was ever such a complete ban, but it is still a pain to go through the pre-notice requirements. Of course, it would be even better if they let permit holders carry their guns on trains.

Amtrak will let passengers transport unloaded guns on trains, reversing a ban in place since the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks. The ban lifts on Dec. 15.
Travelers can check firearms, — including handguns, starter pistols, rifles and shotguns — and up to 11 pounds of ammunition at any train station that offers checked baggage service and if the travelers' itinerary includes a train with a baggage car. Most big-city train stations — including New York, Boston, Chicago and Washington — have checked-baggage service.
The gun prohibition "was an overreaction" after the 9/11 attacks, said Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., who proposed lifting the ban as part of a 2010 appropriations bill.
"The rule was not based on any facts or any reality and was frankly punitive toward sportsmen, hunters and gun owners," Wicker said. "Amtrak was unable to accommodate hunters and sportsmen. They were forced to choose only air travel." . . .
To transport a gun, passengers must notify Amtrak at least 24 hours before their departure. The gun must be stored unloaded in a locked, hard-sided container, the guidelines say. . . . .

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