General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: So it seems "mom" was a full out gun nut survivalist whack job. [View all]ProgressiveProfessor
(22,144 posts)Things I support
- NICS checks or equivalent on all transactions, even private party transaction and gifts. My approach would be a Federal FOID that you would automatically get at 18yo so they are not a "firearms ownership licenses", a common objection to that approach. The check is then if the FOID is still valid for the sale to proceed.
- Limitation of pistol magazines to what fits inside the grip of the gun. Require new designs that would not support magazines that extend beneath the handle (BATF already has authority to force design changes). However, I would allow double stack magazines in things like the M-9.
- All firearms must be secured when not in use, being worn, or transported.
Somethings I have mixed feelings on:
- Mandatory owner training. It is not required to exercise any other enumerated right, but I have seen some very scary stuff over the years. Not sure what the standards should be, but I come down on the side of some training being required.
- Mandatory safety training for children. Enough for them to overcome their natural curiosity and get an adult should they find an unsecured firearm. NRA something like that now, but others could readily do that if the logo is too off putting. While some would find that more offensive that the fundies find Sex Ed, until things change, its basic safety and needs to be done. Not sure the best way, but it is clearly called for.
- Waiting periods. For someone who already has firearms, not sure what purpose they serve. For first time owners I support them.
- Better mental health reporting and supervision. Seen a number of posts on that here. Clearly some is called for, but how to do it is not clear.
There was a time I was much more pro gun control. What changed me was when my wife was part of the shelter movement after she retired. She started teaching women only classes without any sanction or insurance. Later I got deeply concerned about GLBTs being bashed and killed. T*s are getting killed in our cities and damn few seem to give a damn, including the police. That is why I continued to teach after she could not. It is why I support handguns for self defense. Its not for the rude toters, it is for those facing real threat that the police cannot abate and sometimes do not ever care about.