WASHINGTON (AP) — Attorney General Merrick Garland announced that over 500 gun purchases have been blocked since the implementation of a new law in 2022 that requires stricter background checks for young people. The law, passed in June 2022, mandates additional checks for any gun purchases by individuals under the age of 21. According to the Justice Department, those denied a gun purchase include individuals convicted of serious crimes or with a history of mental health treatment.
President Biden lauded the news as an important milestone, emphasizing the impact of the legislation in saving lives. He also called for additional measures such as universal background checks and a ban on firearms often referred to as assault weapons. The passage of the law comes in the wake of numerous mass shootings, including the recent tragedy in Iowa where a 17-year-old opened fire at a high school, resulting in the death of a sixth grader and injuries to five others.
The law was a compromise aimed at addressing the ongoing issue of gun violence in the U.S. It includes provisions to prevent firearms from falling into the hands of domestic violence offenders and allows states to implement red flag laws that make it easier for authorities to confiscate weapons from individuals deemed to be dangerous.
In his remarks, Attorney General Garland highlighted the importance of continued efforts to combat gun violence, despite the initial success of the law in blocking hundreds of gun sales. He also pointed to the overall decline in homicides in many U.S. cities, emphasizing the ongoing work that still needs to be done in addressing this critical issue.
In conclusion, the implementation of the 2022 law on stricter background checks for gun purchases has resulted in over 500 blocked transactions, marking a significant step in addressing gun violence in the United States. The legislation, while impactful, serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to further combat gun violence and ensure the safety of communities across the country.