Safety, common sense
How crazy is it that, in our state, an 18-year-old can walk into a store and come out minutes later owning and solely controlling a semi-automatic assault rifle?
Easier than buying a car or a handgun.
Initiative 1639, Safe Schools/Safe Communities, increases safety and common sense.
It raises the assault rifle purchase age to match the age of handgun purchase [21] and requires appropriate gun safety training.
With enhanced background checks, it raises standards to match 30 other states, including California and Florida, which already embrace tougher standards.
My friends who say they oppose I-1639 insist they are just keeping hold on their Constitutional right to bear arms, to hunt, protect themselves and sport shoot freely.
Not one of them uses assault rifles for their hunting, shooting or protection.
I-1639 incentivizes secure storage of firearms by holding gun owners accountable if a child or legally prohibited person uses their gun to harm themselves or others.
Studies show that states with stronger gun laws, like I-1639, have lower rates of suicide and homicide.
Passing I-1639 will reduce gun violence and save lives in Washington.
Please consider the basic rights of everyone, especially our school children, including being free of fear of dying in their basic pursuits.
Cast your thoughtful vote for I-1639 for safer schools and communities for everyone.
It really does take a village to defend our children.
Mary Margaret Doherty,
Port Angeles