Gun Control

Kimmy WatmuffAvery Rogusky

Carliss Egan

Introduction & History

British originally denied the right for citizens to own/use guns.

Our 2nd Amendment: a well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed

Now- states control all gun laws

Brady Handgun Violence Prevention

John S. Brady= presidential press secretary, wounded in an assassination attempt of Reagan.

Created to enforce a 5 day waiting period in order to conduct background checks before purchasing a gun

Controversial because of 2nd amendment because they are not “ordinary military equipment”

Brady Campaign

After The Brady law, the Brady campaign started up, encouraging stricter laws, and reducing handgun violence.

Works towards a national gun policy, instead of the current federal policies.

United States vs. Miller

Only time Supreme court has intervened in gun control

1934- National Fire Arms Act placed limitations on types of firearms allowed to be used

1939- Supreme court ruled that sawed off shotguns are not supported by 2nd amendment because

Federalism

Massachusetts is the only state that has both licensing and registration for any type of gun.

Majority of states with few gun control laws Florida: has one of the toughest conviction

laws for those who own guns are southern/mid western – 10-20 life mandates fierce sentences for felony

offences committed with a fire arm. Anywhere from 10-25 year minimum.

Arguments

Advocates- want stricter gun laws, regulations, and restrictions

Those against gun control- believe in the 2nd amendment and that owning a gun is a right of the people

Supporters

Main argument= Lessen gun violence– Background checks– Longer waiting periods– Mandatory child safety locks– One handgun purchase per month– Raising the legal age from 18 to 21

AGS

Americans for Gun Safety- Stronger gun laws Supports right to own a gun for sports,

protection, and collection BUT, works hard to keep guns out of the

hands of teens and criminals. Background checks will deter criminals

McCain-Lieberman Gun Safety Bill

Requires a criminal background check for people purchasing guns at gun shows

AGS supports

Opposition

Main argument= stricter laws is a violation of the 2nd amendment.

People against gun control also protest that strict laws are unnecessary as long as current laws are just enforced more.

NRA

National Rifle Association= advocates right to own guns and use for sports

NRA is involved in protesting several different laws including the Brady handgun Violence prevention act

Evidence/statistics (advocates)

300,000 gun related crimes, and 100,00 gun related deaths each year.

37 states allow for criminals to purchase guns at gun shows

44 states require no background check if a gun is being sold from a private seller