The National Rifle Association is shotgun-divorcing New York and hightailing it to Texas, its CEO announced Friday.
The gun lobby is “breaking free from the toxic political environment of New York,” NRA CEO Wayne LaPierre said in announcing its decision to reincorporate in the Lone Star State.
“The plan can be summed up quite simply: We are DUMPING New York, and we are pursuing plans to reincorporate the NRA in Texas.”
The move was announced as the group filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, Bloomberg reported.
The bankruptcy will allow the NRA to keep operating while working out plans to repay creditors — with the important side benefit of pausing all pending litigation, Bloomberg noted.
New York Attorney General Letitia James filed a civil suit against LaPierre this summer, alleging he and other top NRA officials siphoned off millions of dollars from the non-profit, spending the loot on lavish trips, meals and other treats.
James seeks to dismantle the organization.
LaPierre is also currently under investigation by the IRS for potential criminal fraud linked to his personal taxes.
“Under this plan, we seek protection from New York officials who illegally abused and weaponized the powers they wield against the NRA and its members,” the statement said.
“You can be assured the Association will continue the fight to protect your interests in New York – and all forums where the NRA is unlawfully singled out for its Second Amendment advocacy.
“You know that our opponents will try to seize upon this news and distort the truth. Don’t believe what you read from our enemies,” LaPierre’s announcement added.
“The NRA is not “bankrupt” or “going out of business.” The NRA is not insolvent. We are as financially strong as we have been in years,” he added.
No major changes are expected to how the group opearates, the announcement added. The group’s headquarters remains in Fairfax, Virginia.
The Attorney General’s investigation into NRA finances will continue, James said in response to LaPierre’s announcement.
“The NRA’s claimed financial status has finally met its moral status: bankrupt,” she said of the reincorporation move.
“While we review this filing, we will not allow the NRA to use this or any other tactic to evade accountability and my office’s oversight.”
Additional reporting by Priscilla DeGregory