WASHINGTON – Attorney General Merrick Garland announced that over 500 gun purchases have been blocked under the new gun law that requires stricter background checks for young people. The law, which went into effect in 2022, requires additional checks for anyone under the age of 21 attempting to purchase a gun. The law has led to denials for individuals convicted of serious crimes or with a history of mental illness.
President Biden praised the law, calling it a crucial milestone and emphasizing its life-saving impact. The announcement comes in the wake of a tragic school shooting in Iowa, where a 17-year-old armed with a shotgun and a handgun killed a sixth grader and injured five others on the first day of classes.
While it remains unclear how the shooter obtained the weapons, it is important to note that individuals under 18 are prohibited from legally purchasing guns. The 2022 law was passed as a response to a series of mass shootings, including those in schools, and includes measures to prevent individuals with a history of domestic violence from obtaining firearms.
The law mandates increased checks with state and local officials for young buyers, in addition to the FBI databases that are typically consulted before a gun purchase is approved. According to Garland, these measures have prevented the sale of 527 guns so far.
Garland stressed the importance of continuing efforts to combat gun violence, even as overall homicide rates in many U.S. cities have declined. The law represents an important step in addressing the issue of gun violence and ensuring public safety.
In summary, the new gun law has led to over 500 blocked gun purchases, providing additional safeguards and stricter background checks for young buyers. President Biden has expressed support for the law, emphasizing its role in saving lives. The law was enacted in response to a series of mass shootings and represents an important step in addressing the issue of gun violence in the United States.