Colt shuts plant, workers talk to Conn. lawmakers

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — The president of one of the nation's oldest gun manufacturers says he's concerned Connecticut lawmakers are just trying to pacify in-state gun companies as they debate proposed gun control legislation.

Dennis Veilleux (VAY'-yoo), president of Hartford-based Colt's Manufacturing Co., questions whether lawmakers truly understand the ramifications of various proposals.

On Thursday, he closed the Colt plant and bused about 400 workers to the state Capitol so they could personally tell legislators their livelihoods may be at risk.

Veilleux told The Associated that if Connecticut bans AR-15-style, semi-automatic rifles, Colt's customers will take their business to another brand.

Legislative leaders have been trying to craft a bipartisan response to the Newtown school shooting for an upcoming vote. Meanwhile, a legislative committee heard testimony Thursday on numerous gun control bills.