1. Personal Firearm Possession: Some people feel safer when other people's firearm possession is closely regulated; some people say they feel safer when carrying a gun. Is it your opinion that the present gun laws in Virginia provide a fair balance of these interests, or would you advocate further legislation? If you would advocate further legislation, please specify the nature of that legislation.

Answer: I would support legislation that required gun safety programs be provided in schools, particularly where hunting is a usual activity, to insure competency in handling a gun.

2. Guns in Recreation Centers and Government Spaces: Do you think that localities should have the ability to keep weapons out of recreation centers and other government spaces, either by ordinance or administrative policy? Or do you think that uniform statewide legislation on the issue is needed?

Answer: I am in favor of legislation for local control for this and many other issues. I believe that local people and local governments can best decide their own needs. The state government is too strong whether it is controlling land use, taxes or guns in rec centers.

3. Weapons on School Grounds: Students may not bring weapons on school grounds. An exception has been sought for unloaded weapons locked in vehicles for use after school during hunting season. Do you believe a specific exception should be made in this instance? Case-by-case in other special circumstances as they arise?

Answer: No. We have suffered great tragedy in our schools in recent years and should take measures to insure they don't occur here. Absent guns do not kill people.

Nancy O'Brien (electronic mail, November 8, 2001)