Dean Rieck, Executive Director at Buckeye Firearms Association | LinkedIn
Dean Rieck, Executive Director at Buckeye Firearms Association | LinkedIn
Vice President Kamala Harris marked the anniversary of the Parkland shooting by proposing a federal effort to coordinate with states to push "red flag" laws. Harris announced a new office to be housed in the Department of Justice, providing $750 million to coordinate with states that already implement these laws.
Harris encouraged other states to adopt "red flag" laws, stating, "We got some resources for you to help you implement the work that you have done that has been the work of a leader on this tragic issue."
However, not everyone supported Harris's initiative. Ryan Petty, whose daughter was a victim of the Parkland tragedy, criticized the vice president, saying, "Stop using my daughter as a photo op!" Petty emphasized the importance of finding solutions for school safety that do not infringe on Second Amendment rights.
In addition to the "red flag" law proposal, Harris listed other gun control policies she supports, including universal background checks and an assault weapons ban. These measures have faced opposition and criticism for being ineffective and infringing on constitutional rights.
The firearm industry has been vocal about opposing such policies, with the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) highlighting the flaws in these proposed laws. NSSF data shows that as ownership of Modern Sporting Rifles has increased, violent crime has trended lower, contradicting the narrative pushed by gun control advocates.
The Biden administration's stance on gun control has been met with resistance, with critics accusing them of targeting lawful gun owners. The politicization of the Parkland anniversary by Harris was seen as a move to push a gun control agenda, drawing criticism from those directly affected by the tragedy.
The reaction to Harris's proposals underscores the divide on gun control issues in the country, with advocates for alternative solutions emphasizing the need for impactful initiatives that respect Second Amendment rights.