Letter: Three gun provisions that would save lives

I recently read a letter to the editor from someone who is definitely anti-gun that presented a very emotional argument against guns. Whereas I agree with many gun control measures, I think the individual's emotions caused a lack of facts and included some misconceptions. For instance, the NRA is all about responsible gun ownership and safety - it does not advocate gun violence. No legitimate gun store sells automatic weapons.

I think there are three main causes of gun violence that are rarely discussed. What criminal cares about what the law says? What needs to be addressed are law enforcement agencies, red flags and judges. Current laws are filled with provisions for each of these areas.

Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI are tasked with determining who should be allowed to legally own a gun. An application must be submitted and vetted by law enforcement. If they don't do their job, the wrong person will end up with a gun.

Red flag provisions basically require any individual to report a person of suspicious nature to a person of authority who can investigate the mental state and/or intent of the individual. I realize that it is very difficult to identify a close friend or a family member as being a potential threat, but to whom do you want to apologize? The friends and family of victims, or to the individual being investigated?

Judges are the last line of our safety net. They are key to curbing violence. Illegal gun possession or use needs punishment. Incarceration may not work for every offender, but neither does lenience. Let's see what happens if a couple years in jail is involved.

Let's push for these three provisions and save lives

Steve Koivula

St. Charles