I would like to share my views in support of state Sen. Roger Bedford's introductory bill to keep firearms locked in vehicles at work places.

(TimesDaily, Oct. 21) I would like to share some thoughts to merchants that restrict patrons from carrying firearms into their business.

Many businesses have policies that forbid firearms from being carried inside. Such places as schools, courthouses and federal buildings are governed by federal law and it is more understandable that firearms are not allowed.

Legally armed citizens should have the right to protect themselves, their families and other law-abiding citizens from criminals that can carry guns.

Legally armed citizens should be able to carry firearms for self-protection anywhere that an outlaw can carry them.

I would like to see businesses that restrict firearms carried by patrons to give this serious consideration, "Nowhere is safe if an outlaw can get there!" Our world of freedom depends upon someone having a firearm. Dialing 911 is fast, but the results are not always fast enough.

Buy a good firearm, get proper training, learn to use it and educate others in proper use for self-defense.

It is much cheaper to do this and become a protector than to bury a family member or loved one who became a victim.

Being a concealed carrier for 42 years, this quote conveys my thoughts, "The best possible results of having a defensive arm is to never have to use it."

"Man made the gun. The gun does not make the man."

Michael Grigsby

Killen