Change needs to happen

You've probably heard about it a lot in the last several weeks. I came across an article while online that raised a really interesting point. What do climate change and gun control have in common? BIG MONEY. Just as in the early days of big tobacco where misleading advertising and marketing led to societal issues--just the same follows through. Big energy companies with unlimited budgets and the National Rifle Association (and other big pro-gun companies) have embedded into our country--our elected officials--their agenda.

The images I have seen in my mind of recent times--from shootings through the years is something that pains me each times. Kids being killed. Illegal guns on the streets. The deaths that keep amounting in Chicago. Mass shootings. Children killed just before Christmas by a deranged, sick person.

I don't get it. I had to take a test to drive my car. I had to get a license. I had to take classes. Yet--to get a gun, you do not need to do this. Any idiot--any person--if they are of age and not a convicted felon--can get one. It's their "Constitutional right." I LOVE hearing that, by the way. Considering so many people can't tell you the difference between the Bill of Rights and their Constitutional right, but yet they remember this one--anyway! When does a constitutional right become antiquated? When does society realize enough is enough?

To me, it is mind-boggling how people are allowed to have easy access to guns, especially in heavily populated areas. I understand the hunting issue--but there is another argument for another day.

I am contextual person but recognize a need from change from the late 1700s mentality. Just as those in the 1700s had antiquated beliefs--I do not feel they realized the future would for tell such evils--assault riffles being used against children and innocent lives. I think they would understand the need to have flexibility.

As my husband's cousin, who is European, said on a visit--it's easier to buy a gun than a beer in the US. I cannot say I disagree. I feel like the laws need to change in order to secure security in our country. It is not so much the giving our rights away--as amending our rights to background checks. the Proposed legislation is included below as per research. Make an informed decision--but I fail to see the issue in having this legislation backed. It's not giving away a right--it's our future. The future is in our hands and we have the power to change it to be a better place. 

Proposed Legislation:
The proposed congressional actions included:

• Require background checks for all gun sales, including those by private individuals
• Pass a new, stronger ban on "assault weapons"
• Limit magazines to 10 rounds
• Ban the possession of armor-piercing bullets
• Provide financing for improved mental health coverage, particularly for young people
• Provide funding for schools to develop emergency response plans

The executive actions included:

• Improve the data used for the background check system for gun sales
• Direct the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to research gun violence
• Provide incentives for schools to hire school resource officers
• Give law enforcement additional tools to prevent and prosecute gun crime