Seventeen gun firms flee to friendlier states

The gun industry is warning liberal states that pushing for anti-gun policies and taxes will speed an already active escape by weapons makers to friendlier states such as South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas.

The National Shooting Sports Foundation, the industry lobbying and information group, is encouraging its members to look at the trend away from anti-gun states including New York and Maryland.

At its upcoming SHOT Show, the biggest of its kind, NSSF plans to host supportive governors to let them talk up why gun companies should move.

So far, at least 17 gun firms have moved over the past few years, according to a new list compiled by NSSF. Moves often take jobs and hurt local economies.