Gun control issues have been an ongoing topic, and recently back in the spotlight as a primary focus of attention following the recent tragedy in Parkland, FL. This has also reignited furor over the terrifying incident in Las Vegas during a music festival last October and the dozens of other incidents involving gun violence in recent years.
Debates have raged as the public seeks action. While 97 percent of the public agrees that further gun control in some form needs to be implemented, legislators remain deadlocked on the best ways to address this polarizing issue.
Should we raise the age limits on the purchases of certain firearms? Should certain firearms be banned altogether? Should background checks and waiting periods be mandatory for every gun sale? Should bump stocks and high-capacity ammunition magazines be banned? Should teachers carry guns?
While every side holds a passionate opinion regarding how these questions should be answered, we should all be able to agree that responsible decisions and responsible action should be our top priority. It’s simply not acceptable that men, women, and children remain victims as we sift through the legal battles and special interests that too often slow our decisions to a crawl.
In response, several retailers have made their own decisions regarding the firearms debate. Some have pulled firearms altogether. Several have pulled certain firearms from their shelves, and no longer carry these weapons in their stores. Several have banned high-capacity magazines and other accessories intended to maximize bodily harm. Others have raised age restrictions and will no longer sell some or all firearms to those under 21 years of age.
These are tough decisions that carry consequences from both a brand and financial perspective. While not intended to step on 2nd Amendment rights or to restrict hunters, sportsmen, or those seeking personal protection, these retailers have made a business decision to restrict purchases or simply no longer sell these items rather than waiting for legislators to make up their minds on what should be done.
What do you think? Should these decisions be condemned or applauded? In this week’s LPM Survey, we ask:
We look forward to your insights and opinions! Please feel free to candidly share your thoughts. All responses to the survey will remain anonymous.
Look for the results of the survey to appear in next Monday’s LPM Insider.
