Gun Control

Groups like the National Rifle Association believe in the absolute right of Americans to bear firearms—whereas Handgun Control Inc. lobbies for restrictions on the right of private citizens to possess handguns. The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution provides, “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” The controversy continues over this amendment, particularly as it relates to handguns. After the attempted assassination of President Reagan and wounding of Press Secretary Brady in 1982, the Brady Law was subsequently enacted in 1994, which requires background checks of handgun purchasers.