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Md. Gun Control Laws Under Fire In Annapolis

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- Maryland's gun control laws come under attack in Annapolis. A House committee was flooded with bills from both sides of the issue Tuesday.

Political reporter Pat Warren reports the loudest voices were from the strongest opponents.

It's almost a year to the day that Governor Martin O'Malley rallied with supporters to pass some of the most restrictive laws in the country.

"We are here because of the loss of lives due to gun violence in all of our towns," O'Malley said.

One month ago today, gun advocates gathered in Annapolis, vowing to protect their Second Amendment rights.

"To fight for our Constitutional rights," one said.

Tuesday, the House Judiciary Committee heard testimony on several bills to either alter the conditions of ownership the new laws impose or do away with them altogether, despite opposition from the House and Senate leadership.

"I have the power to persuade people. They have the power to twist their arms and break legs," said Del. Mike Smigiel.

Groups, including the Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, don't believe it's a lost cause.

"They said that to the folks at the Alamo, but we still won in the end. We're not going to give up," said John Josselyn.

The committee heard more than 30 gun bills Tuesday. Clearly, this is an issue many Marylanders are not willing to let rest.

Maryland's assault weapons ban is currently awaiting a ruling in federal court and is likely to be appealed.

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