Juneau -- In light of a recent federal court jury decision, and in response to early support from Alaskans on this issue, Senator Pete Kelly (R-Fairbanks) is writing legislation that would prohibit frivolous lawsuits against the gun industry.

"Companies and small businesses should not be held liable for the unlawful actions of individuals no more than car companies should be held responsible for deaths caused by drunk drivers," said Kelly.

Responding to his own convictions and to constituent requests, Senator Kelly is drawing up legislation that would bar local political subdivisions of the State of Alaska from suing gun manufacturers for damages from gun violence.

A federal jury recently found 15 of the nation's largest handgun manufacturers negligent in lawsuits brought after criminals used guns.

"These lawsuits are an abuse of the legal system," said Sen. Kelly. "Gun manufacturing is a lawful enterprise producing quality products lawfully and safely used by hundreds of thousands of American citizens for hunting, sport, recreation and protection," said Sen. Kelly.

"These kinds of anti-business lawsuits will endanger small businesses everywhere, said Sen. Kelly. "Where will we draw the line? Will local ice cream parlors be sued for serving a product linked to health risks and costs associated with gaining weight?" Sen. Kelly said.

"Alaska encourages business. We should protect businesses from frivolous lawsuits," Kelly said.