Legislator Invites Gun Makers to RI

House Minority Leader Rep. Brian C. Newberry is urging Connecticut and Maryland-based gun manufacturers to relocate to Rhode Island on the heels of legislation impacting the firearms industry in those states.

Newberry told the Providence Journal Tuesday Rhode Island should welcome firearms manufacturers and the jobs that would accompany a relocation.

In a statement on Monday, Newberry urged Colt's Manufacturing, a West Hartford Connecticut firearms manufacturer, to consider the ocean state for its future operations.

"Rhode Island, like other states, has significant firearms regulation on its books, but our approach so far has been sensible and responsible, and respectful of the rights of gun owners as well as the community at large," said Newberry in his message to Colt's Manufacturing CEO Dennis Veilleux.

Newberry's statement comes one day before the governor, attorney general and House and Senate Democratic leaders are slated to unveil their gun-safety proposals for Rhode Island.

What do you think of Newberry's proposal to solicit gun manufacturers to do business in Rhode Island? Tell us in the comments below.