UPDATED 6/21/16:
Gun Control Laws After Orlando Shooting
The recent mass shooting at Orlando nightclub, Pulse has re-invigorated the already hotly-contested gun rights debate. Lawmakers in Washington attempted to pass new gun control measures, however, the U.S. Senate failed to approve the new gun control laws aimed at increasing background checks before gun purchases and restricting possible terrorists from obtaining guns in the U.S.
President Obama has given a series of executive actions (not to be confused with executive orders) stemming from his speech on January 5, 2016, regarding gun control in the U.S. Given the high emotions on either side of the issue regarding gun control and gun rights, there is a great deal of confusion around what the laws really mean.
As the reality and specifics of the proposals are sorted out, what is clear is that these new orders will call on a higher level of legal expertise in cases involving guns and gun ownership. A recent article in factcheck.org reviewed the issues surrounding Obama’s new action. Here’s an overview of the recommendations.
Clarifying Gun Laws and Sales
According to President Obama, the plan he proposes in his “Executive Action” does not propose new regulations. The action is proposed with the intention of clarifying that anyone who is selling firearms for profit must obtain a license and conduct background checks on buyers. This includes sellers on the Internet as well as at gun shows. President Obama also made it clear that those who conduct this business without a license will be prosecuted, and can be sentenced to up to five years in prison with up to $250,000 in fines.
Closing the Gun Sales Loophole
The fine points of current gun laws and the proposals put forth by President Obama have caused some confusion. One of the issues is that currently, gun buyers and sellers who trade in guns for collection purposes are regarded as “private” sellers, and are thus exempt from the current rule. Obama’s new action cracks down on sellers claiming to be private dealers who avoid obtaining a license and doing background checks.
The new action asks that “anyone engaged in the business of selling firearms” conduct a background check of buyers. Ultimately, the purpose of the new action by the White House is to ensure that everyone obtaining guns is thoroughly checked and equipped to own a firearm.
Legal Experts at Laporte, Mulligan & Werner-Watkins P.A. Can Help Explain Gun Control Laws
If you are involved in a situation concerning the ownership, use or sale of firearms and are in need of legal expertise, contact the team at Laporte, Mulligan & Werner-Watkins, P.A. Our legal experts are here to help with the laws concerning the sale and ownership of firearms, and the many issues involved. If you need help or want to learn more, call today.