You just have a lot of hoplophobic Karens in your state legislature, and 6-decade-old ergonomic carbines scare them.
Roger makes a decent rifle in any category, although they do have some historical QC issues and political missteps. The 10/22 is one of the most customizable rifles out there, and it's a fine plinker. The takedown model is, as already noted, ideal for backpackers. The Mini-14 is basically a scaled-down M14, and can be a solid tactical carbine with a traditional-looking wood stock.