In recent weeks, Oregon has seen a flurry of legislative activity, with the hottest issue being the universal background checks bill.

Gun control advocates have been trying for years to get this bill through, but it has stalled in previous years due to opposition from enough Republicans and Democrats to keep it from moving forward. Now there looks to be a clear path for the bill to run all the way through the process to the governor’s desk.

In light of all this, it’s worth noting that many of the key votes on this bill represent many constituents who own firearms for recreation, self-defense or hunting. History has shown examples of states like Colorado where things have been pushed too far. Oregon voters across the state, not just in the rural areas, have a long history and tradition of responsible gun ownership. Oregonians have long enjoyed sport shooting, hunting and firearm collecting, as well as using firearms for self and home protection.

One example of a bridge too far is a dusty proposal to ban lead ammunition that’s been floating around the halls of Salem for a while. Such a proposal will impose a California-style ban on lead ammunition used for hunting. Never mind the fact that studies have predicted a 50,000 net loss in hunters for the state, and thus millions of dollars in lost license revenues and taxes.

For Oregon, the ban would be even worse: a report released by the National Shooting Sports Foundation reports that nearly 60 percent of Oregon hunters would quit if a lead ban were enacted here.

What does the lead ammunition ban have to do with the universal background checks bill? Simple. If you’re a legislator who plans on voting for the background check bill, you’re already supporting something that is controversial for many Oregonians. Pursuing a ban on lead ammunition would add more controversy to the mix, and many gun owners and hunters might get very upset about that.

Lots of Oregonians hunt and own guns, and there already are plenty of people upset about that universal background checks bill. Following up that move with a lead bullet ban that is proven to cost Oregon millions of dollars in lost revenue from licenses and tags might be ill advised.

Oregonians are watching. A lead ammunition ban immediately after a bill like the universal background checks would invite controversy where none is needed. Don’t make California’s mistake.

Chuck Defoe of Crescent is the owner of Ken’s Sporting Goods. He can be reached at (541) 433-2530.

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