Strengthening Background Checks: A Viable Solution to Combatting Illegal Guns

The current approach to firearm regulation in the United States is often seen as failing to effectively prevent illegal guns from falling into the wrong hands. This article explores the potential of strengthening background checks as a critical measure that could significantly impact the issue.

Are Background Checks Effective?

The effectiveness of background checks has been closely scrutinized. Critics argue that measures such as those implemented under the 18th Amendment (which banned alcohol) and the Harrison Narcotics Act (which aimed to regulate opium and morphine) have not been entirely successful. Similarly, they assert that over 29,000 gun control laws across the U.S. have not been effective in preventing individuals who are likely to commit crimes from obtaining firearms. This view is influenced by historical precedents and the notion that laws designed to target future offenders do not always achieve the desired outcomes.

Expanding Background Checks: Possible or Impossible?

The question of whether expanding background checks can be an effective solution hinges on several critical points. Firstly, can the government predict and prevent future crimes with a high degree of accuracy? This is a fundamental challenge, as it implies an omniscient understanding of human behavior that is nearly impossible to achieve.

Secondly, examining the concept of a 'crystal ball' that the government could use to identify potential criminals and preemptively imprison them raises ethical and practical concerns. It questions the legality and feasibility of such measures, and suggests that these actions could be seen as more oppressive than protective.

Finally, while the idea of preventing future crimes by bolstering background checks may seem ideal, it does not address the underlying issues of criminal networks and illegal firearms trafficking. The continued refusal to prosecute existing criminals, as mentioned in the context of 'Project Exile,' highlights the lack of effective enforcement mechanisms within the current legal framework.

Tackling the Root Causes

In the context of illegal guns, it is crucial to focus on the underlying causes rather than the symptoms. Measures such as securing the borders, where a significant number of illegal firearms enter the country, and declaring gangs as criminal enterprises are more likely to produce meaningful and tangible results. These steps would target the problem at its source, rather than relying on theoretical solutions that lack practical implementation.

Addressing the needs of legal gun owners, while crucial, does not solve the broader issue of illegal firearms in circulation. Strengthening background checks as part of a comprehensive strategy can help ensure that firearms are not sold to individuals with violent histories, thus playing a key role in reducing the number of illegal guns in the hands of criminals.

In conclusion, while the idea of expanding background checks may seem attractive, it is essential to consider the broader context and root causes of illegal firearms. A multi-faceted approach, including border security, gang intervention, and stringent background checks, is necessary to combat the significant issue of illegal guns in the U.S.