Politics on the Hudson – by Joseph Spector
American Tactical Imports is leaving Rochester for South Carolina, blaming the move in part on the state’s gun-control law passed in January.
“As one of the gun industry’s top importers and manufactures of firearms and firearm related accessories, ATI’s decision to relocate is two-fold,” the company said in a news release yesterday.“ATI believes it is imperative that a firearms importer and manufacturer do business within a state that is friendly to the Second Amendment rights of the people.
“It is also important that ATI be close to the port-of-entry into the country for several of their imported products. The relocation to South Carolina ensures that both of these factors are met.”
It was unclear how many jobs will be lost in Rochester because of the move, but the company said the relocation will have a $2.7 million impact on the Summerville, S.C., community and create an estimated 117 new jobs in the area. Summerville is near Charleston, thus providing port access.
The move is slated for next month. The company is receiving tax incentives to leave, as well.
“This move to South Carolina will help ensure a solid foundation for our company,” said Tony DiChario, the company’s president, in a statement. “The relocation process will be smooth and we have ensured that the process will not affect customer service, product distribution or any other segment of our business. The people of South Carolina have welcomed ATI with open arms and we are excited about making our new corporate home there.”
Rockland County-based Kahr Arms announced in July it was leaving New York for Pennsylvania, blaming the move on New York’s gun-control law.
Remington Arms, based in the Mohawk Valley, has also dealt with questions about whether it would move out of the state and has been wooed by other states. But the company hasn’t said it would leave.
South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley is quoted in the press release touting the ATI move.
“Today’s announcement is another testament that South Carolina is a destination for job-creating investments,” Haley said in a statement. “We celebrate American Tactical’s decision to invest in Dorchester County.”
ATI says it is one of the nation’s top importers and manufactures of firearm-related products.