BUSH IMPLEMENTS "TEXAS EXILE"

"...Project Exile... has been credited with contributing to a 40% drop in Richmond's homicide rate, and a nearly 50% drop in the rate of violent crime since the program's start..."

George W. Bush

      This week, Texas Governor George W. Bush (R) announced a $1.6 million grant to start a state-level "Project Exile" program. Dubbed "Texas Exile," the program is based on the tremendously successful effort started in Richmond, Va., that calls for zero-tolerance for violent gun crimes.

      "Project Exile" allows federal, state, and local law enforcement and prosecutors to work hand-in-hand to prosecute federal firearms law violations, and has been credited with contributing to a 40% drop in Richmond's homicide rate, and a nearly 50% drop in the rate of violent crime since the program's start.

      "The best way to protect our citizens is to vigorously enforce the tough gun laws we have on the books," said Governor Bush. "Texas Exile" earmarks $1.28 million to fund prosecutions, and $360,000 for a public awareness campaign that will relay the message of "Gun Crime Means Hard Time" through billboards, posters on public transit, and newspaper ads. The funding will keep the program operating for two years, after which it will be evaluated, and, if deemed successful, the legislature may be requested to allow for future funding.

      The Bush announcement highlights the stark contrast between him and Vice President Al Gore -- two of the front-runners seeking the U.S. presidency in 2000 -- when it comes to addressing violent crime. Just last week, on "Larry King Live," Gore called for a handgun ban (see FAX Alert Vol. 6, No. 37) in response to recent violent crimes that have grabbed the media's attention. This, of course, was no surprise to NRA. For six years, our calls to the Clinton-Gore Administration to drop its attacks on our right to keep and bear arms, and focus federal resources on enforcing existing laws against violent criminals, have fallen on deaf ears. It is reassuring to see Governor Bush listens and understands.

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