HONESDALE, PA — The Pennsylvania legislature earlier this year passed Act 192, which allows organizations such as the National Rifle Association to sue cities or other municipalities if they pass their own gun regulations.

Attorney General Kathleen Kane has indicated she won’t defend the legislation, which is being challenged in court by the cities of Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Lancaster and five Democratic lawmakers. A spokesperson for Kane said she believes it would be more efficient and in the best interests of the state if the matter were handled by the Office of General Counsel.

House Majority Leader Dave Reed said Kane’s position “causes a great deal of concern,” adding that “the House of Representatives, working with the Senate, will defend the Commonwealth from the lawsuit questioning the constitutionality of the new firearms pre-emption law.”