Opinion: State, Federal Gun Policies

Many Americans are aware of the different views on gun control.  Ever since Sandy Hook, gun control has been a huge political discussion; it has even entered some ethical codes. What some people have dismissed is the vast differences between the states’ views on gun control.There are over 1,500 bills that have been proposed in state governments. In mostly Democrat states, the bills have tightened the already strict gun laws that are in place. In Republican states, the bills have been loosening the restrictions put on guns. But the main difference has been between urban areas and rural parts of the country.For example, in New York a new law was put into place that allows police to track ammunition sales and prohibits gun owners from purchasing any magazines that contain more than seven bullets. However, in Arkansas, people are allowed to carry guns in churches, bars, and liquor stores. In South Dakota, a law has been put into place that allows the school system to arm teachers.With all these different bills between states, it allows people to carry guns across state lines. There are no security checks at state borders. This is why many gun control advocates want Congress to make some movements towards federal law. It will decrease the amount of guns that are easily transported between state borders. Gun rights activists are coming from a different standpoint. They believe that they should allow the states to do what they please when it comes to gun laws.All gun laws should be left to the states. Each state has different types of cultures and people there. Country people are different than people from the city. Country people believe that guns are a necessity and a protector for their families. People from the city, however, rely on police and other authorities that are their protectors. No matter what federal law, a majority in a certain state may be excluded and protest the law. The point of the federal government is to represent the majority of the population. If there is no distinct majority, then the government should not be involved. Let the states create their own laws that represent the majority in the state.