MILLION MOM MARCH

Sensible gun laws, Safe kids

Every day, a dozen children die from gun-shot wounds!

   We want Congress to create a meaningful gun policy that requires gun owners be trained in gun safety, licensed and have their guns registered.

What is licensing and how does it work?

   Many people who cannot buy guns legally get them easily through illegal channels. Under a licensing program, an applicant for a license must be fingerprinted and pass an extensive background check. In addition to the background check, the applicant must demonstrate an understanding of how to handle a gun safely and legally. Like a driver's test, this would include both a written test and hands-on demonstration of safe handling and proficiency in gun use.

What is registration and how does it work?

   Registration creates accountability for gun owners, protects against illegal gun sales and promotes responsible use and storage of guns. Studies show that guns used in crimes tend to be relatively new guns that were legally sold within a few years of the crime. Because most of the guns in circulation are much older, this suggests that guns used in crimes tend to get to criminals through subsequent illegal sales rather than through theft. That means some people who buy new guns resell them illegally. Without registration, we have no reliable way to spot illegal sales or to identify the sellers.

   A responsible registration system would require gun owners to claim responsibility for each gun they buy or own. Each year, the gun owner would be required either to renew their registration for each gun they own or explain why they should no longer be responsible for its whereabouts.

ACTION -Attend The Million Mom March

   The Million Mom March is a grassroots movement of mothers and others who want Congress to pass sensible gun legislation. The March will take place on Mother's Day (Sunday, May 14, 2000) at the National Mall between the US Capitol and the Washington Monument.

   To find out about religious services, a special briefing that requires pre-registration, and where United Methodists are to gather for the march, read: Million Moms March Against Gun Violence May 14. United Methodist contact information is also included.