After the mass shooting at Umqua Community College in Oregon, President Obama stated his belief that it is past time for our country to do something to help protect us from such events. He, correctly, pointed out that a majority of Americans support some sort of gun regulation legislation. Gun regulation does not mean gun confiscation, nor does it threaten 2nd Amendment rights.
It is true that gun violence is a complicated issue and no single action by Congress will solve it. However a truly universal system of background checks would help. I would like to suggest something else that could help. Let us consider treating gun ownership more like we treat car ownership. I propose that gun ownership should not just be a right but also a responsibility.
Starting at the top, gun manufacturers should only be allowed to sell guns to licensed gun dealers. Dealers should only be allowed to sell guns to individuals who have cleared a background check and have a valid license showing that they are competent in the use of firearms. All gun owners should be required to register any and all guns that they own. They should also be required to carry liability insurance on each of their guns. Gun owners who wish to sell their gun or guns should be required to do so through licensed dealers.
If this plan were to be implemented, it would not end gun violence, but it would put a damper on the impulse buying of guns. It would also, in time, help reduce the number of illegal guns in the hands of people who should not have them.
This is not offered as a solution to the problem of gun violence, but as a step toward making a positive difference. The liability insurance part would help in meeting the financial burden that gun violence puts on the victims, the victims’ families and the general public.
Will Roy
Oak Park
