WASHINGTON — Congressman Tony Wied (WI-08) and U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) recently announced a resolution recognizing the contributions of small business firearm manufacturers to our economy and designates August as National Shooting Sports Month.
“Wisconsin is home to many incredible small firearm manufacturers who help drive our economy and ensure access to safe, reliable firearms to exercise our Second Amendment rights,” said Congressman Wied. “I’m proud to join Senator Risch in recognizing their contributions by designating August as National Shooting Sports Month.”
Background: Small manufacturers of firearms contribute significantly to the national and local economy as they support 380,000 jobs in the broader firearms industry and produce more than $91,000,000,000 in annual economic output. Small manufacturers of firearms play a critical role preserving craftsmanship, entrepreneurship, and innovation in the United States and are true anchors in small communities across the country.
“Idaho’s small business firearm manufacturers drive innovation, prioritize responsible gun ownership, and protect our Second Amendment traditions,” said Senator Risch. “I am proud to recognize these important American manufacturers and designate August as National Shooting Sports Month.”
Congressman Wied is proud to have the support of House Small Business Committee Chairman Roger Williams (R-TX).
“I want to thank Representative Wied for leading the charge on this resolution honoring the small firearms manufacturers who power our economy, support American jobs, and preserve our sporting heritage,” said Chairman Williams. “Recognizing August as National Shooting Sports Month is a fitting tribute to their craftsmanship, culture, and contribution to the American way of life.”
Several industry leaders have voiced their support for this resolution, including the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) and the National Rifle Association (NRA).
“The firearm industry is thankful that the U.S. Senate recognizes and celebrates National Shooting Sports Month. This month-long celebration emphasizes the vital role of the firearm industry to the economy both at a national and local level, the contributions to wildlife conservation across the country and the importance of teaching responsible firearm ownership to the next generation of Americans,” said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel. “Our industry is proud of the over $91.7 billion economic impact it brings to our national economy and the 383,000 well-paying jobs. We are immensely proud of the Real Solutions. Safer Communities efforts we bring to champion proven strategies for safe and responsible firearm ownership. This is our heritage and lawful firearm ownership is our right. The firearm industry is grateful to know Congress celebrates this month with us.”
“Small firearm manufacturers have been part of the fabric our nation since its founding,” said John Commerford, Executive Director of NRA-ILA. “NRA members and law-abiding gun owners across the nation proudly support the nation’s small firearm manufacturers. Their contribution to the economy, culture heritage and tradition of our nation is immeasurable.”
