1.) Anyone in possession of a gun (whether they own it or not) should have a regularly renewed license. If you want to call it a permit, certificate, or something else that's fine.
Acceptable, provided the cost to the individual is zero. USSC has previously ruled that the exercise of a Constitutional right cannot be dependent upon the ability to pay.
2.) To get a license, you should have a background check, and be examined by a professional for emotional and mental stability appropriate for gun possession. It might be appropriate to require that examination to be accompanied by references from family, friends, employers, etc. This check is not to subject you to a mental health diagnosis, just check on your superficial and apparent gun-worthyness.
I have some 4th Amendment issues with some of this. It's no business of people that don't live with me what I own or possess. As for being examined by a professional, again, at no cost and easy access (no scheduling delays of 18 months, for example).
3.) To get the license, you should be required to take a safety course and pass a test appropriate to the type of gun you want to use.
Absolutely. Trigger control and muzzle awareness are essential knowledge areas.
4.) To get a license, you should be over 21. Under 21, you could only use a gun under direct supervision of a licensed person and after obtaining a learner’s license. Your license might be restricted if you have children or criminals or other unsafe people living in your home. (If you want to argue 18 or 25 or some other age, fine. 21 makes sense to me.)
Only if we're going to raise the voting age to 21 and the draft age to 21. The learner permit idea is solid.
5.) If you possess a gun, you would have to carry a liability insurance policy specifically for gun ownership - and likely you would have to provide proof of appropriate storage, security, and whatever statistical reasons that emerge that would drive the costs and ability to get insurance.
Two issues. Cannot cost the owner a penny, else it's an infringement on Constitutional rights based on ability to pay. Other issue is insurance does not cover deliberate acts of criminal intent. Safe storage requirements make sense to me.
6.) You could not purchase a gun or ammunition without a license, and purchases would have a waiting period.
Yes to requiring license to buy guns/ammo. No to waiting period. What's the point of the waiting period if you've already passed the requirement for a license?
7.) If you possess a gun without a license, you go to jail, the gun is impounded, and a judge will have to let you go (just like a DUI).
Seems reasonable. Would need an exception carved out for shooting ranges/gun stores to allow individuals an opportunity to try out something before deciding to buy. Otherwise you end up in situations like in Texas where the police raided a bar and arrested everyone for being intoxicated in public. (Why yes, this WAS a gay bar, how did you know?)
8.) No one should carry an unsecured gun (except in a locked case, unloaded) when outside of home. Guns should be secure when transporting to a shooting event without demonstrating a special need. Their license should indicate training and special carry circumstances beyond recreational shooting (security guard, etc.). If you are carrying your gun while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you lose your gun and license.
Disagree. Part of licensing (or an option) should be the concealed carry permit. I'd like to see a National Reciprocity law, just like we have with marriage and driver's licenses. Fully agree about being intoxicated while armed.
9.) If you buy, sell, give away, or inherit a gun, your license information should be recorded.
Just like a car. I can get behind this.
10.) If you accidentally discharge your gun, commit a crime, get referred by a mental health professional, are served a restraining order, etc., you should lose your license and guns until reinstated by a serious relicensing process.
Yup. Sounds good. Needs to have a solid due process process, but agree.
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