Why Universal Background Checks Won't Solve America's Gun Crisis

🔒Universal background checks won't effectively prevent criminals from obtaining guns due to flaws in the existing system.

🔍The FBI database used for background checks is outdated and missing millions of records, allowing individuals with criminal histories to pass checks.

🔑Implementing a licensing system, like Massachusetts' comprehensive process, can effectively prevent both criminals and impulsive buyers from obtaining guns.

📜Connecticut's licensing system led to a decrease in gun homicides and suicides, while Missouri's removal of licensing resulted in a spike in such incidents.

💡Licensing systems are supported by the majority of Americans, including gun owners, as an effective measure to ensure responsible gun ownership.

Why won't universal background checks solve America's gun crisis?

—Universal background checks are insufficient because of flaws in the existing system, such as an outdated FBI database and missing records. Criminals can still obtain guns even with universal checks in place.

What is the alternative to universal background checks?

—The alternative is implementing a licensing system, like the one in Massachusetts, which includes firearm safety courses, extensive background checks, and references. Licensing systems have been shown to effectively prevent both criminals and impulsive buyers from obtaining guns.

Do licensing systems actually work?

—Yes, licensing systems have been successful in reducing gun homicides and suicides. For example, Connecticut's licensing system led to a decrease in such incidents, while Missouri's removal of licensing resulted in a spike in gun-related deaths.

Are licensing systems popular among Americans?

—Yes, licensing systems are supported by the majority of Americans, including gun owners. More than two-thirds of gun-owning households and over three-quarters of all Americans support the implementation of licensing systems.

Why should comprehensive solutions be prioritized?

—Comprehensive solutions that address all aspects of gun violence are necessary to effectively tackle America's gun crisis. Merely focusing on background checks is insufficient, and it's important to consider licensing systems and other measures to ensure responsible gun ownership.

00:00Politicians often propose universal background checks as a solution to America's gun crisis.

01:13Universal background checks require all gun buyers to go through a check, but criminals can still obtain guns through unlicensed dealers.

02:57The FBI database used for checks is outdated and missing records, allowing individuals with criminal histories to pass checks.

04:41Licensing systems, like Massachusetts', include safety courses, extensive checks, and references to prevent both criminals and impulsive buyers from obtaining guns.

05:55Connecticut's licensing system led to a decrease in gun homicides and suicides, while Missouri experienced an increase after removing licensing.