Here is some thought regarding the gun discussion currently going on in America. There seems to be two sides – the self protection side that believes people have the right to protect themselves with firearms. This side believes that people who commit crimes and mass shootings will not abide by any gun control laws. The pro-control side supports of legislation regulating who can purchase guns. This side believes laws make it more difficult for criminals to purchase guns. Regardless of which side you are on, the only way something meaningful can be enacted is if both sides are represented in the solution. So, how about this:
Section 1. Gun Control Legislation.
a) Have universal background checks for all purchases of firearms, regardless of type, caliber, etc.
b) All transfers of firearms between private parties (i.e. family, friends etc.) will have to go through a FFL dealer and a background check will need to occur just like a standard sale.
c) Mandatory 5 day wait on all new firearms purchases. For example, you go to Jim’s Gun Shop and want to buy a gun. You select the weapon, the background check is initiated and you put down a refundable deposit. You then pick up your weapon in no fewer than 5 days and pay the remainder of the cost.
Section 2. Self Protective Legislation
a) Licensed concealed carry expanded to all 50 states. To obtain a license for concealed carry, you undergo a background check exactly as if you were making a new purchase. Once the background check is complete, you are then licensed to carry a concealed firearm.
b) Annual qualification for licensed concealed carry persons. You will be required to qualify on the weapon that you intend to carry. Qualification will be by weapon type, and essentially in good faith. For example, if you intend on carrying a revolver, you qualify on a revolver. You supply equipment and holster. Qualification will be conducted at Regional Weapons Training Facilities or at an acceptable private facility. If you fail a qualification you may retake the test after a certain amount of time (week or two) but your concealed carry license will be suspended until satisfactory completion of the test.
c) Being licensed and qualified to carry a concealed weapon would be indicated on your driving record/vehicle registration to assist law enforcement during routine stops (i.e. you are a concealed carrier and are stopped for speeding, police officer has an indication on their screen if they run tags, they can ask when they approach your vehicle, you answer accordingly).
Section 3. Existing Legislation
a) Ideas listed above will replace any existing legislation in all states. Any other state legislation will still stand, where applicable.
I don’t think any of this is too crazy from the perspective of either side – maybe I’m wrong. The folks that wanted more gun control legislation will get background checks, plus a little piece of mind knowing that people carrying a concealed weapon will have a degree of competency. Those that believe in personal protection will still be able to purchase weapons, and carry them. They’ll also have a perfectly legal reason to go shooting at least once a year. Although they still may think gun control legislation won’t have any effect on criminals, they will be able to carry their own weapon. This compromise, while not perfect, seems to satisfy both sides.
