By Ed Somers

Despite Denver Mayor Wellington E. Webb's blunt assessment that "we don't want you here," the National Rifle Association (NRA) has refused to cancel its annual convention in Denver.

In an April 21 letter to Wayne LaPierre, Executive Vice President of the NRA, Mayor Webb wrote, "Due to the tragedy that has occurred in our community, I believe it would be inappropriate for the National Rifle Association to hold its national convention in the City of Denver."

Mayor Webb added, "I cannot force you to cancel your event. However, I am requesting that the NRA voluntarily cancel this convention. I hope that you agree, out of respect for the victims and families and citizens of our community, the cancellation of this convention would be the most appropriate course of action."

The NRA refused this request, and instead cut the meeting from its originally planned three days down to one, an action which Mayor Webb said did not match his request or the sentiments of the community.

The meeting will take place on Saturday, May 1 with a large anti-gun protest expected.

In commenting on the events at nearby Columbine High School, Mayor Webb said, "On behalf of all the citizens of the City and County of Denver, Wilma and I extend our profound sympathies to the families and friends of the victims of this tragedy. We join a grieving community in expressing our sadness and pain and outrage. No words can fully express the magnitude of our sorrow during this time of mourning."

Gun Preemptions Stopped in Colorado

Prior to the Columbine school shootings, the Colorado Legislature was preparing to approve three major pieces of legislation to severely limit the ability of local governments to regulate firearms, as well as preempt gun lawsuits.

The first bill would have prevented cities or counties from enacting gun control measures that are more restrictive than state laws.

The second bill would have set uniform state standards for the approval of permits to carry concealed weapons, overturning stricter standards in cities including Denver.

The third bill would have preempted any local government lawsuits against the gun industry.

Denver Mayor Webb actively opposed these bills prior to the shootings calling them a, "NRA-led, direct assault on the ability of local governments to determine sound public safety measures."

Following the events of April 20, Colorado Governor Bill Owens vetoed the lawsuit preemption bill, and the two other preemption measures appear blocked from further action in the Legislature.