Biden imposes Executive Order for background checks with gun sales
Hey, did you hear the news? President Joe Biden is taking a stand on gun background checks to help prevent gun violence in the United States.
According to NPR, Biden recently announced an executive order that could increase the number of background checks required before purchasing a gun. He made the announcement during a visit to Monterey Park, California, which experienced a mass shooting that killed 11 people during Lunar New Year celebrations in January.
With over 100 mass shootings already happening in 2023, Biden said it’s common sense to check whether someone is a felon or a domestic abuser before they can buy a gun. Under federal law, individuals in the gun selling industry must be federally licensed, requiring background checks of buyers. The new executive order ensures gun sellers who violate the law and those who are unaware of background check requirements become compliant.
Some gun sellers, from small collections to internet sales, may not even know that background checks are required. Congress passed new gun safety legislation last summer, but proposals to reissue a ban on assault weapons have not been passed due to a Republican-controlled House.
Biden is calling on his cabinet members to work with law enforcement, health care providers, and educators to promote safe ways to prevent shootings. He emphasized the need for more mental health support for grief and trauma, as well as more financial assistance for families who lose their sole breadwinner or small businesses that must shut down due to a lengthy shooting investigation.
The executive order also includes safety measures such as passing red-flag laws and encouraging the safe storage of weapons. By taking these steps, Biden hopes to make progress in preventing gun violence and promoting safety in our communities.
