Mayor Berkowitz has unconstitutionally closed firearm retailers in Anchorage.
Decreeing the forced closure of Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, and the Sportsman’s Warehouse, is a violation of Alaska Statute 29.35.145(a), which makes it illegal for him to limit the sale of firearms within the Municipality of Anchorage.
His recent conduct infringes on the right to keep and bear arms, guaranteed in the Constitution of the State of Alaska (Article I, Section Nineteen), and by the United States Constitution. Further, this conduct is in conflict with his own emergency order issued on March 20, 2020. The “Hunker Down Order,” lists specific business that are deemed essential and to remain open, including critical businesses:
“Item 5. f. Food cultivation, including fishing, hunting, farming, and livestock;”
His actions are also contrary to the Department of Homeland Security’s guidelines that these retailers are to remain open.
This puts more people out of work during this crisis, contributing to the huge jump in unemployment, while at the same time making everyone less safe. Especially as the court system has decided to release many criminals from jail.
He has violated Alaska Statute 11.76.110, Interference with constitutional rights and an immediate investigation should be started by the Governor.