WASHINGTON — A new gun law aimed at enforcing stricter background checks for young people has resulted in more than 500 blocked gun purchases since its implementation in 2022, according to Attorney General Merrick Garland. The law, passed in June 2022, requires additional checks for anyone under the age of 21 seeking to purchase a firearm. Those who have been denied a gun purchase under this law include individuals convicted of serious crimes and those who have been involuntarily committed for mental-health treatment, as reported by the Justice Department.
President Biden has applauded the impact of the legislation, emphasizing its importance in saving lives. He also called for further measures to address gun violence, such as universal background checks and a ban on firearms commonly known as assault weapons. The law was passed in response to a series of mass shootings, including the tragic event at a Texas elementary school that claimed the lives of 19 students and two teachers. In addition to imposing stricter background checks for young buyers, the law also includes measures to prevent firearms from reaching domestic violence offenders and allows for the implementation of red flag laws in states, making it easier for authorities to remove weapons from individuals deemed dangerous.
The news of the blocked gun purchases comes in the wake of a recent school shooting in Iowa, perpetrated by a 17-year-old who used a shotgun and a handgun to kill a sixth grader and injure five others. While it is still unclear how the shooter obtained the weapons, federal law prohibits individuals under 18 from purchasing firearms. Despite the progress made with the implementation of the 2022 law, Attorney General Garland emphasized the need for continued efforts to combat gun violence, particularly in light of declining homicide rates in many U.S. cities.
In conclusion, the 2022 gun law, which enforces stricter background checks for young buyers, has resulted in over 500 blocked gun purchases. This legislation, a response to a string of mass shootings, aims to prevent firearms from reaching individuals deemed dangerous and has garnered support from President Biden. The law also includes measures to address gun violence, such as universal background checks and a ban on assault weapons. However, further efforts are deemed necessary to continue combating gun violence in the United States.