Recently I saw an article concerning gun violence and how different states are trying to control the use of firearms by individuals who need restrictions.
Several states have adopted a “red flag “ law that gives judges the discretion to remove guns from people not convicted of a crime, but show signs they might shoot themselves or someone else.
The law appears to be a step in the right direction. Unfortunately, it does have cost factors, which create additional work and expense for gun enforcement agencies.
The idea is good, but why can’t laws be made to keep guns out of the hands of people by controlling the sale of them before they reach these individuals.
In January, state legislators are going to consider adopting laws to help curb gun violence. I have four recommendations to help reduce gun violence in Virginia; none of them will impact (or affect) the 2nd Amendment rights of citizens.
• Seek additional funding for mental health
• Require universal background checks
• Ban bump stocks
• Eliminate the sale of automatic and semi-automatic weapons to the public
This is a good start, and it will show the nation that Virginia is serious about working to help reduce the tragedies of recent years.
Steve Huppert,
Member of the Christiansburg Town Council