About 200 rally for gun rights in annual rally at Pennsylvania Capitol: "Gun enthusiasts from around the commonwealth have been told to press lawmakers to preserve and expand their right to have firearms. About 200 people gathered at the Capitol for Tuesday's annual "Right to Keep and Bear Arms Rally." Speakers and activists urged lawmakers to approve an expansion of the state's self-defense law that would allow a person to use lethal force in self-defense without first trying to retreat from an attacker. Opponents say they are concerned that the change could lead to more urban violence. National Rifle Association President David Keene attended the rally and told The (Harrisburg) Patriot-News that advocates have scored important victories in the Keystone State."


Nervous CA legislator: "Assemblyman Tony Mendoza was one of four state legislators who were denied permission to carry a concealed weapon inside the state Capitol and other legislative buildings. A law took effect this year requiring everyone except peace officers to get permission from the Legislature before bringing their guns into legislative buildings, even if they have a concealed weapons permit from a local sheriff. Mendoza wanted to bring his handgun into his Norwalk district office, which is part of a large building and sits away from other developments. A man approached Mendoza on the sidewalk and threatened to kill him if he returned to the area. The man eventually was convicted and spent four years in jail. Upon the man's release, Mendoza said he applied for and received a permit from the Los Angeles County Sheriff to carry a concealed handgun. "I want to be safe," Mendoza said."