DOVER, Del.- After receiving criticism from gun rights supporters over fairness and potential constitutional violations, Delaware is now allowing gun shops to sell firearms by appointment only during the a state of emergency tied to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The move came from state officials on Thursday following vocal opposition from some firearm dealers, including many who kept their businesses open despite an order by Gov. John Carney (D) to close non-essential businesses earlier in the week.
A list of businesses deemed non-essential that was released on Sunday by state officials said sporting goods stores would be required to close until May 15 to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus.
Some gun shops remained open as late as Thursday, defying the governor's order to close during the state of emergency.
"If people believe that you have the right to keep and bear arms, if you closed all the gun stores and not allow anybody to purchase a firearm you're infringing on that constitutional right," said Jeff Hague with the Delaware State Sportsmen's Association.
Prior to the governor's announcement, state officials said three gun shops in New Castle County had been given cease-and-desist letters and closed down.
"All three businesses were noted to have long lines outside of their businesses despite the closure order. Each business was educated about the State of Emergency closure requirements and this was ignored," said Jeff Sands, a spokesman for the Delaware Emergency Management Agency.
Firearms dealers must follow the following restrictions, according to the state:
Firearms dealers may conduct sales of firearms, ammunition, and other goods directly related to responsible firearm storage and maintenance, by appointment only. No more than two appointments per half hour shall occur, and sellers are limited to operating during normal working hours they operated on prior to the State of Emergency. Any seller who violates such directive may be subject to criminal prosecution or other civil enforcement remedies up to and including arrest or the involuntary closure of the business.