About the Episode
Following the tragedy in Oregon, President Obama is reportedly considering executive action on gun background checks. This measure would compel background checks for “individuals who buy from dealers who sell a significant number of guns each year. Dealers who exceed a certain number of sales would be required to obtain a license and perform these background checks. This sounds repetitive, but this measure would target small time dealers who make occasional sells or who buy and sell guns as a hobby.
The Supreme Court is considering hearing a challenge to a Chicago ordinance that prohibits semiautomatic assault weapons that carry more than 10 rounds. The justices are considering an appeal in Friedman v. City of Highland Park. Should the refuse to hear the appeal, it would signal that cities can ban high-powered weapons under the constitution. While the Court has struck down measures to prevent handgun ownership in municipalities, it has not made a ruling on larger, more powerful weapons.
The Senate Democrats demanded new gun-control laws earlier this week, citing an increased need for gun safety and limiting access to guns. This included expanding background checks to prevent ownership, closing “loopholes,” and shutting down a mythical illegal gun pipeline. While they made all these claims, an extra detail of armed guards stood watch. Translation: Senate Democrats don’t want you to have guns, but they are ok with the government controlling them.
A woman at a local Home Depot in Auburn Hills, MI, took up the cause of the store when 2 shoplifters evaded loss prevention officers in the parking lot. Upon seeing the fleeing suspects, the woman drew her 9mm pistol and fired at the departing SUV. While she flattened a tire, the suspects got away, and she is now cooperating with police, though she did more property damage than just flattening the tire. While we like good people with guns, this story ought to remind you of a few things: don’t endanger others with your firearm, and don’t pretend to be the police. A few pounds of copper simply isn’t worth a few thousand dollars in fines for the average citizen.