Many Americans fear that their 2nd Amendment rights will be violated with a ban on firearms. Many others fear gun violence and innocent victims being harmed, as seen in Newtown, CT.
Today we lost a dear friend who committed suicide. She used a gun that she owned. She will not be in the headlines because she harmed only herself. However, she shared a trait with those who have committed mass shootings. She was mentally ill and took prescription medication.
My proposal is simple. Require a prescription from a medical professional in order to purchase a gun. An individual's privacy will be maintained by being evaluated by a professional who will know what medications are being taken. This is a compromise that will save the lives of the mentally ill and others in their communities.
Thanks.