My father raised my brother and I from a young age to respect the capability of firearms, and trained us on how to operate and store them safely. When I bought my own handgun and began going to the shooting range I learned that many gun owners are...
My father raised my brother and I from a young age to respect the capability of firearms, and trained us on how to operate and store them safely. When I bought my own handgun and began going to the shooting range I learned that many gun owners are not given this same foundational training.
I believe the 2nd Amendment provides Americans the right to legally own firearms. But I also believe in an adequate standard of training and responsible ownership. As a gun owner, I support legislation that would establish these standards to ensure that gun owners exercise their right with confidence and an understanding of the responsibility they bear.
In 2017 Missouri legislators dropped qualification and permit requirements for concealed carry. Based on what I've witnessed at the range, the lack of a minimum training standard makes us less safe. I support qualifying standards and permitting for open and concealed carry. The state can coordinate with local shooting ranges to provide training and qualification, providing economic benefit for these businesses. This training should include secure storage education as well, to lower the rate of domestic violence, suicide, and accidents involving firearms.
I support comprehensive background checks that include auctions and private sales to close off avenues of illegal sales. It's not only possible for gun owners to own and carry more safely without violating our 2nd Amendment rights; it's imperative.