Gun violence issues divides us, in part, because for many feel the government's proposed regulations are unreasonable. The question of what is reasonable is a legitimate discussion. Most favor universal background checks. Most accept weapon registration and youth safety training requirements. But beyond these areas of substantial agreement, the conversation breaks down quickly, especially over assault rifles and high-capacity clips.
I don't write with an opinion on any current proposal. I write, instead, with a suggestion to more directly address those who abuse gun rights. Why not create a ballistics database by requiring manufacturers to conduct and compile ballistic tests on all guns prior to sale? Imagine the benefit to local law enforcement as they investigate gun-related crimes involving unknown assailants (e.g., when no gun is recovered). The database would be particularly helpful with hand guns, which pose a greater day-to-day safety threat, statistically speaking, than assault rifles. Plus, the potential loss of abuser anonymity could be a deterrent if ballistic tests are quickly traceable. Costwise, the testing/database expense would be largely absorbed in the purchase price, while the cost savings to law enforcement (i.e., taxpayers) during crime investigations would be substantial.
As a responsible gun owner, I want a quicker way to identify abusers.
Ken Karlberg
Bellingham
