The debate over gun control has been raging for decades, but the urgency of handgun control has never been greater. With mass shootings becoming increasingly common, it is clear that something needs to be done to reduce the number of guns in circulation and to make sure that those who do have access to firearms are responsible and accountable for their actions.
The first step in addressing the issue of handgun control is to recognize the fact that guns are a major contributor to violent crime. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, firearms are used in more than two-thirds of all homicides in the United States. Furthermore, the majority of these homicides involve handguns. This means that if we are serious about reducing the number of homicides in our country, we must take steps to reduce the number of handguns in circulation.
The second step is to recognize the fact that the current laws regulating the sale and possession of handguns are inadequate. In many states, it is still possible to purchase a handgun without a background check or any other form of identification. This means that anyone, regardless of their criminal history or mental health status, can purchase a handgun. This is a major problem that needs to be addressed.
The third step is to recognize the fact that the current laws regulating the use of handguns are also inadequate. In many states, it is still legal to carry a concealed handgun without a permit. This means that anyone, regardless of their criminal history or mental health status, can carry a concealed handgun. This is a major problem that needs to be addressed.
Finally, we must recognize the fact that the current laws regulating the storage of handguns are also inadequate. In many states, it is still legal to store a handgun in an unlocked location, such as a glove compartment or under a car seat. This means that anyone, regardless of their criminal history or mental health status, can access a handgun without any form of identification or background check. This is a major problem that needs to be addressed.
The urgency of handgun control is clear. We must take steps to reduce the number of handguns in circulation, to ensure that those who do have access to firearms are responsible and accountable for their actions, and to ensure that the laws regulating the sale, possession, and use of handguns are adequate. If we do not take action now, the number of homicides in our country will continue to rise. It is time to take action and to make sure that our laws are strong enough to protect us from the dangers of handguns.