Gun Safety

Gun safety measures are foundational to any strategy aimed at addressing the epidemic of firearm-related injuries and deaths in the United States. With over 40,000 gun-related fatalities annually—ranging from suicides and homicides to unintentional shootings—comprehensive reforms are necessary to protect individuals in homes, schools, workplaces, and public venues. One of the most broadly supported and evidence-backed reforms is the implementation of universal background checks. These would mandate that all firearm purchasers—regardless of whether the transaction occurs through a licensed gun dealer, a private seller, or at a gun show—undergo thorough background screening. Such screenings would check for prior felony convictions, domestic violence restraining orders, serious mental health diagnoses, or a history of violent behavior. Despite public support exceeding 85%, these checks are not universally required under current federal law, leaving dangerous loopholes that allow firearms to be sold without oversight in many states. Closing these gaps could significantly reduce the risk of guns falling into the wrong hands.

In addition to background checks, Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs)—also known as “Red Flag Laws”—offer a proactive tool to prevent tragedies before they occur. These laws empower law enforcement officers, family members, or even medical professionals to petition a court for the temporary removal of firearms from individuals who are exhibiting signs of violent ideation, suicidal thoughts, or severe mental distress. These orders are time-limited and subject to due process, striking a careful balance between public safety and individual rights. Research has shown that ERPOs can prevent suicides and mass shootings by creating a legal mechanism for intervention during critical periods of crisis.

Another indispensable element of gun safety policy is the enforcement of safe storage laws. These laws require firearm owners to keep guns locked and unloaded when not in use, particularly in homes with children or individuals at risk. Improper storage contributes significantly to accidental shootings, youth suicides, and gun thefts. Children often access unsecured weapons without fully understanding the consequences, leading to tragic but preventable outcomes. In contrast, safe storage laws help foster a culture of responsible gun ownership by reducing opportunities for misuse and enhancing overall household safety.

Taken together, these measures—universal background checks, red flag laws, and safe storage requirements—form a common-sense, evidence-based framework for reducing gun violence. They respect the rights of law-abiding citizens while placing necessary guardrails around firearm access to protect public health. By adopting these policies nationally, the United States can make substantial progress toward a safer, more secure society where the right to bear arms is preserved without sacrificing the right to live free from fear.