The Fight for Constitutional Freedoms: Why Local Gun Bans Are a Dangerous Path

In an era where gun control measures are increasingly used as a political tool, it’s refreshing to see bold leadership standing firm in defense of individual rights. Gov. Phil Scott’s announcement to veto the proposed Burlington bar gun ban shines as a vital defense of the Second Amendment. The proposal, introduced by Vermont lawmakers, would prohibit even law-abiding citizens from carrying firearms in Burlington establishments that serve alcohol—regardless of whether or not they are drinking themselves. It’s important that we examine the implications of such policies, not only in Vermont but across our nation, especially here in South Carolina where we value freedom, responsibility, and the Constitution.

Anti-Gun Legislation Wrapped in “Safety” Packaging

Supporters of the Burlington proposal claim it’s about safety. But let’s not be fooled: the true impact of this kind of legislation is the dismantling of self-defense rights. Bans like these don’t target the criminals—they target responsible citizens who have undergone training and carry legally. At Fortress Firearms Training in Fountain Inn, SC, we understand the importance of responsible gun ownership. Every day, we train South Carolinians—men and women from all walks of life—to be safe, confident, and law-abiding firearm owners.

What’s happening in Vermont isn’t an isolated incident. It’s part of a broader push by progressive lawmakers nationwide to gut personal freedoms under the guise of “public safety.” But here’s the catch:

• There’s no evidence to suggest that banning legal carry in bars reduces violent crime; in fact, criminals don’t follow laws.
• These policies punish responsible gun owners—the very people most likely to stop a crime from occurring.
• Local-level gun control opens the door to a patchwork of regulations that confuse law enforcement and undermine state authority.

Gov. Phil Scott’s Common-Sense Approach

Unlike many of his counterparts, Governor Scott recognizes that this proposal would not only be ineffective, but dangerously overreaching. He said of the measure, “It infringes on the rights of law-abiding gun owners by limiting their ability to protect themselves.” That’s not just rhetoric—it’s the heart of the matter. Here in South Carolina, we know the importance of having tools for self-defense in public places, especially as violent crime continues to rise in many urban areas.

As a concealed carry permit holder, you carry not to intimidate, but to be ready for the worst-case scenario. So why would we strip that right away just because you’re grabbing dinner or listening to live music?

Choosing Responsibility Over Restriction

At Fortress Firearms Training, our mission is clear: to educate and empower law-abiding citizens so they can exercise their Second Amendment rights safely and effectively. Our training programs emphasize:

• Situational awareness – knowing how to avoid threats before confrontation even happens.
• Safe firearm handling – because carrying a weapon responsibly starts with proper education.
• Legal considerations – understanding your rights within South Carolina’s concealed carry laws.

Laws like the one proposed in Burlington simply ignore these fundamentals. Instead of encouraging responsible training and use, they push fear-based restrictions that serve no public safety interest. It’s a slap in the face to the millions of Americans who have put in the time to become informed, safe, and effective defenders of their homes and communities.

Why South Carolinians Should Pay Attention

Some might say, “Well, that’s just Vermont.” But make no mistake—ideas like this spread. Statists across the country are watching to see what sticks, and if they can advance a gun control agenda at the city level, you better believe they’ll try it in states like ours. That’s why staying vigilant and supporting pro-2A institutions is so crucial in today’s political climate.

When sanctuary cities can pass their own firearms restrictions separate from state law, it creates a dangerous precedent. We need strong governors like Phil Scott—despite party affiliation—willing to stand up and say, “No, you won’t infringe on rights for the sake of political theater.” South Carolina has historically been a stronghold for gun rights, but complacency is the enemy of liberty. The fight to protect our freedoms never takes a day off.

The Real Solution: Training, Not Banning

If lawmakers truly care about reducing gun violence and enhancing public safety, they would fund firearms education and self-defense training—not restrict it. Fortress Firearms Training offers a path to real, tangible change by teaching people how to carry legally and safely. We are proud to serve Fountain Inn and the surrounding Upstate communities with comprehensive training that reinforces not just the skill, but the responsibility of carrying a firearm.

Instead of vilifying gun owners, we should be lifting them up, showing how discipline, safety, and confidence can transform not just individuals, but entire neighborhoods. That’s what true Community Safety looks like—not arbitrary bans based on fear or political pressure.

Join the Fight for Your Rights

Gov. Scott made the right call, and we applaud his courage to stand in the way of misguided legislation. But this shouldn’t be the exception—it should be the rule. All governors and lawmakers should be defending the constitutional rights of their citizens against local infringements.

If you value your Second Amendment rights and believe that responsible citizens shouldn’t be treated like criminals for exercising their freedom, now is the time to take action. Learn, train, and stay informed.

• Enroll in a concealed weapons permit (CWP) course at Fortress Firearms Training.
• Attend local town halls and push back against proposed gun restrictions.
• Share factual information with neighbors and friends about the importance of gun ownership.

Remember—freedom isn’t given. It’s protected by the people who believe in it enough to fight for it. Let us be those people. Let us train, speak, and vote in a way that preserves liberty for generations to come.

Visit Fortress Firearms Training to learn more about how you can become a more confident and capable firearms owner. Your safety and freedom begin with education—and we’re here to walk that journey with you.