Our View: Close gun-sale loophole | DailyTidings.com Mobile Edition
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Search Menu Login Reset Password Home Weather Archive Sign Up for Alerts Full Site Close Menu OUR VIEW Our View: Close gun-sale loophole April 21, 2015 - 12:01 AM Senate Bill 941, which would require background checks on firearm sales between private individuals in Oregon, produced the predictable howls from the pro-gun lobby, which has grown accustomed to intimidating politicians into bending to its will. But the state senators got it right in approving a measure that will close a loophole while depriving no eligible person of the right to purchase a gun.  Under the bill, Oregon would become the 12th state to require background checks on firearms sales and transfers between private individuals. That means gun purchasers would have to follow the same rules — and meet the same requirements — now in place for people buying firearms from licensed dealers or at gun shows. State law makes it illegal for felons, domestic abuse offenders and those committed for mental health treatment to carry guns. The Senate bill would make the enforcement of that more complete by plugging the leak in the law that now allows those people to purchase guns from individuals, particularly through Internet purchases. Opponents say the law would not keep guns away from criminals who are intent on getting a firearm, and that's probably true in most cases. But it could stop an unstable person from buying a gun over the Internet and make it more difficult for a felon to make a purchase in anonymity. Background checks do not stop law-abiding, mentally stable people from purchasing firearms and are no threat to their Second Amendment rights. Oregon House members should follow the Senate's lead and approve the bill. Popular Today Taqueria Picaro takes over Tabu space Schneider Children's Center set to close City sets 'Living with Wildlife Summit' Annual Science of Wine fundraiser coming to Ashland Springs Hotel 'Right to rest' misguided A good day to act Fun with funding formulas Latest Photo Galleries home search Full Site video weather daily archive txt alerts about mobile website limelight deals jobs real estate © Copyright Local Media Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | Local Media Group Publications | Full Site