Republicans and Democrats have agreed in Congress on limited tightening of the gun law. Although many Democrats don’t think the measures go far enough, it is the first significant gun law passed since 1994.
The compromise on measures comes after the bloody attacks on a supermarket in Buffalo and a school in Texas. 10 and 21 people, respectively, were killed, including 19 children. In both cases, the perpetrator was 18 years old and had obtained his weapon legally.
Both parties agree to a broader background check for arms buyers under the age of 21. It is also with ‘red flags laws‘ easier to obtain weapons from confused or potentially violent persons and for more perpetrators of domestic violence the possession of weapons is restricted.
In addition, more money is being earmarked for suicide prevention and other psychological help. More money is also going to school security.
No AR-15 Ban
The plans go far less than the Democrats and a majority of American citizens want. They would have liked to see a total ban on the sale of semi-automatic weapons like the AR-15 used in both attacks, or at the very least a ban on their sale to young people.
They also wanted to limit the size of magazines and introduce broader background checks for all gun buyers. Those plans don’t stand a chance in Congress, however, because the necessary supermajority of 60 senators is missing.
Democrats nevertheless react moderately positively to this tentative collaboration. President Biden calls it an important step in the right direction, though he also says it “doesn’t achieve everything I deem necessary”.
broad support
Weapons lobby NRA is more critical. The extra money for security and psychological help is welcome, but on principle the organization rejects any curtailment of the constitutional gun rights.
Mitch McConnell, the Republican Senate leader, calls the compromise “a significant advance in mental health and school safety, while respecting the Second Amendment.” He hopes for broad support from his party.
Last weekend there were protests in many places in the country for stricter gun laws. The Congressmen who have now reached a compromise hope to come up with bills before the summer, although the precise wording will require further consultation.
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