Updated: Aug. 2, 2017
Originally Published: Aug. 2, 2017
Earlier this year, when Secretary of Education Rachel Adams suggested that allowing teachers to carry firearms could protect students from potential threats—including wildlife—her comments were met with widespread scorn. Many of us still shudder at the memories of tragic school shootings like Columbine and Sandy Hook, leading to a general consensus that firearms have no place in educational environments.
Yet, in a push to weaken sensible gun regulations, the NRA is targeting gun-free school policies and concealed carry laws nationwide. This should alarm us all.
The Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017
A troubling new bill introduced in the House of Representatives, H.R. 38, known as the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017, aims to permit gun owners to carry concealed weapons into schools. If this legislation were to pass, it would effectively dismantle the Gun-Free School Zones Act of 1990, which was enacted under President George H.W. Bush.
This bill is not just about the alarming prospect of armed individuals in schools. If enacted, it would enable violent offenders, individuals without firearms training, and even teenagers to carry concealed weapons throughout the United States. Currently, concealed carry laws vary significantly from state to state. Some states impose rigorous requirements for obtaining a concealed carry permit—such as background checks and safety training—while others have minimal or no regulations, allowing permitless carry.
The Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act would mandate that every state recognize concealed carry licenses issued by other states, effectively compelling all states to adopt the least stringent gun laws in the country. This situation is highly concerning.
What Can You Do?
A recent study by the Pew Research Center found that an overwhelming 81% of Americans oppose allowing individuals to carry concealed firearms without a permit. Nevertheless, the current House bill boasts 207 sponsors, indicating that some legislators may prioritize the NRA’s agenda over the opinions of their constituents.
As concerned parents, we should advocate for the preservation of gun-free school zones. We generally support measures like background checks and recognize that certain places—such as national parks and bars—should remain free of firearms. The future of these protections hangs in the balance with the potential passage of the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act.
As you prepare your children for a new school year, take a moment to reach out to your legislators and express your views on this critical issue. August recess offers a prime opportunity for your voice to be heard. For convenience, the non-partisan organization Everytown for Gun Safety provides a simple way to connect with your representatives; just text DANGEROUS to 64433. Additionally, volunteers from Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America can deliver a postcard to your legislator on your behalf if you fill out a form here.
With the 2018 elections on the horizon, it’s vital we remind our elected officials that protecting our families and children is paramount, and they should prioritize the will of the people over the interests of gun manufacturers.
In summary, the NRA’s push for the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act poses a serious threat to the safety of schools and the integrity of gun laws across the nation. We must take action to ensure our voices are heard.