Op-Ed: Extend the Assault Weapons Ban Now!
Next week, the 1994 federal assault weapons ban is scheduled to expire. This landmark piece of legislation has kept millions of the most dangerous firearms off the street and out of criminals’ hands. The American Bar Association adds its voice to that of leaders in law enforcement and other concerned groups, calling for the extension of this life saving law past Sept. 13.
Extending the ban will require President Bush, who has expressed support for the ban in the past, to use the influence of his office to aggressively and enthusiastically encourage congressional leaders to renew the ban before it expires. Without this support from the White House, the ban will expire without a vote.
The federal Assault Weapons Act of 1994 was designed to respond to an alarming trend of military-style weapons being used by gangs, drug dealers and spree killers around the country. By prohibiting 19 models of military-style firearms and their copies, which together pose an especially high risk to law enforcement and to our nation’s youth, this law made our communities safer. Law enforcement agencies, the men and women of which comprise the front-lines in the service and protection of our citizenry, resoundingly support the ban. They know, first hand, the dangers posed by assault weapons and the havoc their use invariably brings, and attest to the ban’s effectiveness in curtailing violence and saving lives.
In March, the Senate went on record with a bipartisan vote in support of legislation to renew the Act. Leaders in both parties have made their support for the ban clear, pointing out that the firearms it prohibits are meant only for military combat, and are attractive to criminals, gangs and terrorists solely because of their tremendous firepower and efficient means of killing people. But the House of Representatives has yet to act. With the deadline for extension approaching, it is important for President Bush to provide the leadership necessary to see that the assault weapons ban continues to provide law abiding citizens the protection they deserve and expect.
11:14 AM March 1, 2011
The AWB was not extended, and most Americans have the freedom to enjoy the sport and exercise their constitutional rights.
There is no rational basis, important government interest nor compelling need that justifies a blanket prohibition on telescoping stocks, forward handles or pistol grips to remove the use of firearms by criminals and gang members.
The punishment of all and the infringement of the second amendment to criminalize behavior of criminals is repugnant to the constitution and thankfully Washington has not followed through with your unconstitutional and legally unconscionable argument.
4:57 PM March 1, 2011
i think this is a little out dated.. the AWB expired years ago.
8:04 PM March 1, 2011
The 2nd Amendment was intended to keep the supreme power in the hands of the electorate, no doubt about it! Read the minutae from Williamsburg during the debate over the Bill of Rights. Pay special attention to Patrick Henry, Noah Webster, Thomas Paine, George Mason, and Jefferson. The Constitution says what it says! Not what you wish it said.
4:22 PM March 3, 2011
Stastically, criminals, gangs and terrorists are unlikely to use “assualt weapons.” They use cheap concealable handguns, not expensive rifles. The only thing 99% of “assault weapons” kill are paper targets and empty soda cans.
This irrational hyperbole in this op-ed is an embarrassment to the profession.