Sensible laws

The Dec. 4 letter No more guns recommended that, to address the mass slaughters of innocent people, gun ownership should be made illegal. It is ludicrous to believe that this would stop those intent on taking lives, regardless of the motive. Additionally, efforts to track gun ownership for the purpose of confiscation will ultimately be of insignificant value in efforts to curtail gun possession among extremists, the mentally ill and criminals; it would, however, be relatively successful in identifying law-abiding gun owners who possess guns for self-defense and recreational purposes.

We are deluding ourselves if we believe these are viable solutions to prevent violence in our communities.

In the tragedy in San Bernardino, the extremists were carrying explosive devices that could have wreaked more havoc than what occurred if they had not malfunctioned. Should we also ban the sale of all components used in making explosives? Those intent on taking lives will continue to do so.

We can, however, implement strategies that can positively address violence in our communities: Take effective, proactive measures that prevent extremists from entering this country; improve practices used to identify and track those who reside here; implement comprehensive intervention programs for the mentally ill, engaging community resources to take part in this endeavor. These would be steps in the right direction. Last, evaluate the designation of gun-free zones and encourage responsible, law-abiding gun owners to possess concealed-carry permits in an effort to defend themselves and others.

Thus far, it appears that we have chosen to be politically correct and pander to the fears of progressives even if it means allowing slaughter to continue.

This story was originally published December 19, 2015 at 12:04 PM with the headline "Sensible laws."