General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: "Handguns...exacerbate our flaws, tempt us to escalate arguments, and bait us into embracing.... [View all]Sancho
(9,070 posts)there may be variations. The point is NOT punishment for convicted felons who robbed a bank, etc. The point is BEFORE you possess a gun...so you can have all the guns you want, but it would be harder for the mentally ill or criminals to get them:
1.) you should pass a background and mental health check
2.) you should complete a gun safety course
3.) you should be issued a license to buy a gun or ammunition and you must present it to make a purchase
4.) you should probably be required to have an insurance policy
5.) if you are underage, you only get a learners permit and must be supervised when using a gun
6.) in some cases, like if there are children in your home, you may have to prove proper storage of guns (gun safe, trigger locks, etc.)
7.) more powerful guns (military, etc.) might require advanced training
8.) you can't sell or ship a gun without showing your license/permit
9.) LEO's or mental health professionals or judges can revoke your license if they have cause (like you threaten your neighbor or tell your psychiatrist that you plan to hurt someone)
If you have a gun in your possession without the license/permit:
1.) you lose the gun on the spot
2.) you are taken in for evaluation (a few days in jail and a mental health check?)
3.) you face a fine or maybe jail (like DUI) even if you weren't committing a crime other than possession without a license
I'm sure you get the idea. If you want to include crossbows, Star Trek phasers, and ICBM's as "arms" thats ok...it's the same principle.