Laws can't fix it all, but they're a start

There seem to be so many different facets to consider when it comes to the problem of gun violence in this country. Can we start with revising the background check? It is obvious that the current check system doesn't give authorities a clear understanding of the type of person(s) requesting ownership of weapons. There have got to be better questions asked, and verified, before authorizing a person to legally acquire guns. Background checks should be mandatory for every weapon purchased, including purchases made at gun shows. The Second Amendment doesn't guarantee that acquiring guns should be easy.

Next, we need to revise the definition of semi- and automatic weapons. If only 200-plus weapons currently fit the definition of semi- and automatic weapons, then the definition needs to be revised to include more of the rapid-fire weapons. And semi- and automatic weapons should be banned. Only military and law enforcement personnel should have access to these types of weapons. My neighbors don't need automatic weapons to hunt deer and ducks. Maybe I've got the order reversed, maybe definition first, then background checks. Then onto other parts of the discussion.

I don't think legislation alone can fix all the problems surrounding this issue but it's a start.

Lin Galloway

Mundelein