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Resolution On The Table In Harford County To Legalize Sale Of Tasers And Stun Guns

BEL AIR, Md. (WJZ) -- Harford County residents may soon be able to purchase a new kind of weapon. A resolution is on the table to legalize stun guns and Tasers, just like Anne Arundel County recently did.

Monique Griego has more.

Supporters say, if someone wants to protect themselves, it gives them a less lethal option than having to buy a gun.

Maryland Quarter Master in Bel Air is stocked with everything from handguns to rifles. But one thing you won't find is a Taser or stun gun.

"I can sell you a gun, but I can't sell you a stun gun," said Joseph Woods, Harford County Councilman.

Woods' wife owns the store. That obvious conflict of interest is why he won't be voting on a new county resolution to legalize electronic control devices.

Still, Woods no doubt backs the idea as a less lethal alternative to owning a gun. As a retailer, he says he's seen the need.

"During the recent crimes in Towson, we were flooded with parents coming in trying to get something for their kids," Woods said. "We tell them their option is pepper spray and they end up buying multiple pepper sprays."

State law allows the use of ECDs for people 18 years and older who get a background check and meet other requirements. But most of the major counties have chosen to uphold the ban.

Last year, Anne Arundel became the first large county to lift it.

Critics of the move have said not enough training is required for owners and that the last thing the state needs is more weapons that can be misused.

"It's kind of a double-edged sword," said Ruth Stewart, Divine Divas.

Local boutique owner Stewart agrees with the concerns, and right now, sticks to mace.

"If Tasers were legal, we probably would keep one just to be safe," she said.

A hearing on the resolution is scheduled for March 18. A vote will come soon after that.

The state law to legalize electronic control devices passed in 2009.

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