And here is the NRA response:
"Numerous media sources are reporting on an apparent campaign by New Orleans city
authorities to confiscate lawfully-owned firearms from people in the city.
Louisiana statute does grant the government, during a state of emergency, broad
powers in regulating and controlling firearms.
However, we have seen not just with Hurricane Katrina, but other similar
situations, that when police are unable to control the criminal element, people
turn to the one freedom that protects all others-the Second Amendment.
While one can certainly understand the dire predicaments of all those affected
by Hurricane Katrina, as we have learned throughout history, campaigns to disarm
the lawful do nothing to disarm the criminal. And in truth, these restrictions
make citizens less safe. Despite the valiant efforts of many law enforcement
officers and rescue workers, too many of those left in the wake of Katrina are
ultimately responsible for their own security and safety and that of their
families and loved ones; especially when communication is virtually non-existent
and police can't be quickly summoned to respond to calls for help. At these
times, lawful gun ownership is paramount to personal safety.
Of course, the entire situation in New Orleans is constantly in flux. But rest
assured NRA is monitoring this situation very closely and will address any
activity by the government that unduly infringes upon the rights of lawful gun
owners at the appropriate time. As we learn more, we will report to our members
accordingly. In the interim, however, we join with all Americans in offering
our thoughts, prayers, and assistance to the victims and survivors of this
terrible natural disaster.
Sincerely,
Katrina Ruminski
NRA-ILA"