In the interest of simultaneously preserving rights and protecting citizens, the following are highlights of my proposed bill:
The Assault Weapons Ban will be immediately and permanently reestablished. In addition, no guns may be sold that can be converted to assault weapons. Conversion kits and extended ammunition magazines are also banned. Penalties for enforcement of this ban are hereby increased to the maximum extent for any such violation.
Henceforth the sale of all guns will only be allowed through licensed dealers, and every sale will be registered to an individual. Purchasers must first obtain a license by completing a safety training course and successfully passing a comprehensive test. A minimum wait time of one month will apply thereafter, during which time extensive, mandatory background checks will be accomplished. Sale and ownership will be prohibited to persons convicted of felonies, misdemeanor violence, harassment, DUI’s and use or sale of controlled substances - and those flagged by mental health professionals or appropriate authorities as a potential danger to public safety.
Gun owners maintain responsibility and liability in perpetuity or until ownership is transferred by sale or through estate after death. Such resales and transfers must be accomplished through a licensed dealer. Current addresses of licensed guns must be maintained. If a gun is used in the commission of a crime by another person, the owner will be liable for damages and subject to a heavy penalty - even in the event of gun theft.
An extensive information/communication program will be launched to encourage the security of household guns and surrender of unwanted or unneeded guns, as well as to keep the public vigilant about protecting access by minors or anybody in the owner’s sphere that might pose a danger to public safety. Gun safes and trigger locks will be made available for free or at a substantially subsidized cost. Community armories will be established, where gun owners can obtain a free locker to secure their guns away from their residences when not in use.
Sales of guns and ammunition will be leveed to obtain sufficient tax revenue to establish and operate gun safety, training, security and licensing programs proscribed by this bill, as well as to subsidize fortification and security of schools and other public places that seek and qualify for such federal assistance.