Its time that the NRA put up or shut up. If you want to have unlimited guns, then you need to take responsibility for your legislation.
What if we required gun licenses on a similar model as drivers licenses. Purchasers would have to provide fingerprints, take a practical and written test proving their proficiency in gun safety, understanding of how to use it and prove their ability to handle, dis/assemble, clean and store the gun. They would also be required to renew their licenses at least every 5 years or so.
The NRA could use their vast funds to sponsor and run the testing sites. So when something doesn't work out right (ex. people getting licenses without proper vetting etc.) they would be held responsible and have to correct the situation. They are supposedly the pros right? Why shouldn't they be the ones to instruct the public. I know it would be a real eyeopener for these gun enthusiasts.
Just a little back ground for those wondering. I sit right in the middle of the fence on this subject. I was raised in a flaming NRA family that hunts regularly and has been lucky enough not to have had any accidents. I don't hunt or own a gun myself.
On of the wisest things my Dad has said is that "you don't shoot at what you can't see." Having said that, my dad also tells a story of one hunting trip where he got mad at something (I think it was getting slapped in the face by a tree branch that broke his glasses.)and turned around, saw two small does and shot them because he had lost his temper. He didn't need them and it wasn't doe season, but he still felt entitled because he was angry. And yet he feeds the deer every winter because he worries about them not getting enough to eat.
I agree with the second Amendment, its there for very valid reasons. But I strongly believe in being forced to take responsibility of understanding your "arms" and you should be held accountable if you have not properly stored the weapons, to keep them out of the hands of children. And don't give me that "they no better or else" crap.
If we can hold pool owners accountable for taking precautions on their pools, we can hold them accountable for gun ownership.
Also as an after thought, why not require insurance as well?