A Responsible Approach to Gun Safety and Violence Prevention

As a lifelong hunter, gun owner, and shooting range owner, I deeply understand the cultural and personal significance of firearms in American society. My wife and I both have concealed carry permits, and we regularly practice safe and responsible gun ownership. I firmly believe in protecting our Second Amendment rights—but I also believe we must take decisive, common-sense action to reduce gun violence in our communities.

We cannot afford to let extreme views dictate the conversation.

WE NEED TO ACT NOW TO SAVE OUR CHILDREN

Gun violence is now the leading cause of death for children and teens in the United States, with devastating consequences, particularly among Black youth. This ongoing epidemic of firearm-related deaths must end. WE CAN END IT!

Common-sense gun safety laws can save lives while respecting the rights of law-abiding gun owners.

The vast majority of Americans—including responsible gun owners like myself—agree that we need stronger safeguards to keep firearms out of the hands of those who pose a risk to themselves or others.

That is why I support a balanced approach that upholds gun rights while addressing gun violence through practical reforms, including:

1. Universal Background Checks for Every Gun Sale

Right now, in Pennsylvania and many other states, some private sales and gun show purchases can be completed without a background check. This loophole allows individuals who would otherwise be prohibited from owning a firearm—such as felons, domestic abusers, and individuals with serious mental health concerns—to bypass safety measures. I support requiring all firearm sales, including private person-to-person transactions, to go through licensed dealers who conduct background checks.

2. Mandatory Firearm Safety Training

Before we can get a driver’s license, we must first obtain a learner’s permit, complete training, and pass a test. Yet a person can purchase a gun and carry a concealed firearm without any required safety training. That makes no sense. I support mandatory firearm safety training for all gun owners seeking a concealed carry permit or before they purchase their first firearm. This would ensure that every gun owner is educated on proper handling, storage, and transportation of firearms, reducing the risk of accidental shootings and misuse. This education should also include target practice and proper maintenance of a firearm.

3. Extreme Risk Protection Orders

We must empower families and law enforcement to intervene when a person is displaying dangerous behavior. Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs) allow courts to temporarily suspend an individual’s access to firearms if there is documented evidence that they are threatening harm to themselves or others. Under this policy:

• A judge can issue a temporary order based on credible evidence of risk.
• The individual must surrender their firearms to law enforcement.
• A formal evaluation by mental health professionals follows, determining whether the restriction should be lifted or extended.
• The restriction cannot exceed one year without further judicial review.

This tool has already saved lives in states where it has been implemented, preventing mass shootings and suicides.

4. Restrictions on High-Capacity Magazines & Ammunition Sales

While an outright ban on assault-style weapons such as the AR-15 would be the most effective solution, we must begin by restricting high-capacity magazines and rapid-fire accessories that make mass shootings deadlier. No civilian needs a magazine holding 30 or more rounds for hunting or self-defense. A limit on ammunition clips would significantly reduce the lethality of mass shootings while preserving the ability of responsible gun owners to defend themselves.

Furthermore, we regulate the sale of over-the-counter medications like Sudafed to prevent drug abuse—yet there are no limits on the quantity of ammunition a person can purchase. I support policies that prevent stockpiling of excessive amounts of ammunition, particularly by individuals with histories of violence or extremist behavior.

5. Strengthening Mental Health Support in Schools

Preventing gun violence isn’t just about regulation—it’s about early intervention and support. Our schools need the resources to identify and assist students who may be struggling with mental health issues before they turn to violence. I propose:

• Increased funding for school psychologists, counselors, and crisis intervention specialists.
• More social workers are dedicated to student mental health.
• Crisis response training for educators and staff.

By addressing the root causes of violence and ensuring students have access to proper mental health care, we can prevent tragedies before they occur.

Moving Beyond Misinformation & Political Gridlock

The gun lobby has used fear and misinformation to block even the most reasonable reforms, despite overwhelming public support. Responsible gun owners and advocates for gun safety must come together to demand solutions that protect both our rights and our communities.

I believe we can find common ground by rejecting extreme positions on both sides and focusing on real, evidence-based solutions. I stand for responsible gun ownership, common-sense regulations, and a safer future for all Americans.

It’s time for action. Together, we can protect our Second Amendment rights while making our communities safer.

IT REALLY IS COMMONSENSE. HELP ME, TOGETHER WE CAN SAVE LIVES!