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A recent study conducted by a prominent gun control organization has determined that implementing gun control measures similar to those in California and New York could potentially prevent the loss of approximately 300,000 American lives.
The state of California was the pioneer in implementing regulations for firearm safety, mandating that school districts inform families about secure storage of firearms, and allocating funds for programs aimed at preventing gun violence.
The government has allocated approximately $200 million towards addressing gun violence through intervention measures.
Everytown for Gun Safety, an organization that monitors data on gun violence, recommends that all states require background checks, purchase permits, extreme risk laws, and secure storage measures, and eliminate permitless carry and stand-your-ground laws.
According to the rankings of the organization, the highest 16 states had a minimum of five of these policies implemented. California was ranked as the top state for gun safety, followed by New York in second place. Arkansas had the least strict gun laws and was ranked last on the list.
There were 22.1 deaths per 100,000 people in the state. In comparison, California had 8.7 deaths and New York had 5.3 deaths.
However, according to the non-profit organization, even with strict gun regulations, a state may not necessarily become safer if its neighboring states have looser laws. Illinois and Maryland are cited as examples.
Prior to 2020, Virginia was the primary source of crime guns in Maryland until stricter purchase laws were implemented. Conversely, while New Hampshire and Rhode Island have more lenient gun laws, their low rates of gun-related deaths can be attributed to the strict laws in neighboring states.
The prevalence of guns in a state was a contributing factor to the number of gun-related deaths. For example, states with higher than average rates of gun ownership, such as Nevada and New Mexico, tended to have more fatalities caused by firearms.
According to recent studies, states have potential to gain advantages from federal legislation. However, the current system is lacking in effectiveness due to its failure to mandate background checks for all firearm purchases and its provision of unique legal protection to the gun manufacturing sector.
The Independent has contacted the National Rifle Association for a response.
The organization promoting gun safety is urging state lawmakers to take action and facilitate the implementation of more intervention measures to address gun violence.
According to the study, state legislators have a responsibility to safeguard their citizens by addressing the various loopholes in federal legislation. Additionally, they should use their authority in areas where state laws hold more weight, such as implementing a protocol for individuals who have been convicted of domestic abuse to surrender their firearms when they are no longer permitted to possess them.
The source is independent.co.uk.
