Short Paper 6

In my most recent blog post, I wrote about the two new laws being signed in Michigan that will prioritize safer gun usage. The first law required universal background checks for all those purchasing a gun who do not have a gun license. The second called for the appropriate storage of guns in homes, especially in homes with minors. All guns should be stored in a locked box or using a locking device that only can be opened by the owner of the gun or an authorized user. In addition, the punishments for violating the laws can include up to 93 days in prison, a $500 fine, or both. With the recent abundance of mass shootings and gun violence, the laws are a step in the right direction. We have seen too many shootings happen, and people profess their desire for change, but nothing follows. Now, I am thrilled to see politicians taking action and fulfilling the call for change. Hopefully, this will lead to a decrease in gun violence and the saving of many innocent lives.

With all this hope and positivity around safer gun laws, I still remain doubtful about real change in this country. The reason I say this is because the large divide between states. In this case, it is the different perspectives on guns. As I stated, Michigan is taking steps to decrease gun violence by enacting stricter regulations around the attainment and ownership of a firearm. However, at the same time, Rob DeSantis down in Florida is doing the exact opposite. He recently signed a bill that will permit the purchase and concealed carry of a firearm without background checks or a permit. It is the exact opposite of what Michigan is doing. It is appalling that in the wake of mass shootings and gun violence happening almost daily, DeSantis thinks it is a good idea to not need background checks or permits. In addition, earlier in my blog, I wrote about a Texas district court that ruled in favor of domestic abusers being able to keep their guns, being protected by the Second Amendment. We are putting deadly firearms in the hands of dangerous people. How can we not expect violence and death? With all this going on in other states, especially the South, can we really celebrate the new laws in Michigan? On the one hand, yes, we can because action is finally being taken. But, looking on a larger scale, certain parts of our country still believe guns are not the problem, creating more loose gun laws. Until the majority of our country can agree on gun regulation, I fear that gun violence will continue.