House Speaker Rick Thompson wants to see firearm
manufacturer Beretta USA
relocate to West Virginia.
Thompson has contacted Beretta's top executive, according to
a news release, and suggested the Mountain
State as the most suitable state
for the company's pending relocation.
"With available space and an available, educated work force
in all areas of our state, you would have a wealth of opportunity to expand and
grow your business here, where the people understand and care about your
industry," Thompson wrote in his letter to Beretta USA Executive Vice President
Franco Beretta, according to the news release.
"If you are seriously considering moving your headquarters
to another location, it would be in your best interest to take a look at West
Virginia."
Beretta has been contemplating whether to move part or all
of the company out of Maryland
because of an assault-weapons ban measure moving through the Maryland General
Assembly, which would make some of Beretta's products illegal in Maryland.
Thompson said in his letter to
Beretta that West Virginia would
not support such a law.
Thompson said he thought he needed to act quickly to suggest West
Virginia to the company.
"This company would bring hundreds of jobs to West
Virginia, and showcase the state as a relocation spot
for other industries," Thompson said in the news release.
Thompson wrote in his letter that West
Virginia has one of the highest rates of gun
ownership in the country.
"This, combined with the state's long support of the Second
Amendment and our close proximity to your current headquarters, makes us an
excellent choice for Beretta USA
in your relocation efforts," Thompson wrote. "I look forward to hearing from
you, and if you have any available time, I would be glad to come to Maryland
to explain in person why West Virginia
would be an excellent choice for your headquarters or, in fact, any other
expansion you may be considering."
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