Ald. Michele Smith on Gun Control: 'Get Serious'

Dear Friends,

I, like you, have watched with shock, sadness, and anger as instances of gun violence continue to rock our country. As a parent I feel that more needs to be done. As a former federal prosecutor and a current member of a legislative body, I know how we must begin. 

Nationally

In a speech following the tragic Newtown shooting, President Obama made clear his intent to take real steps to strengthen existing gun control. To that end, he has introduced major legislative proposals and 23 executive actions to enforce existing laws and make it harder for guns to get in the hands of the wrong people through strengthening the background check project. 

Our own Illinois senator, Sen. Dick Durbin, is leading the effort to implement basic, common sense regulations around gun and ammunition purchases — regulations that would still uphold citizens' Second Amendment rights.  

These include:

• Bar those with a history of mental instability or violent crime from owning weapons.
• Outlaw the sale of certain weapons that are strictly for military use and have no useful purpose in sport, hunting, or self defense.
• Ban magazine clips with more than ten rounds from civilian use.
• Restrict the number of firearms a single person can buy in a month.
• Require firearms within the reach of children to have protective locks.
• Require background checks of all purchasers.
• Close the loopholes that allow "straw purchasers" to buy guns and then resell them on the street.

In Chicago

At this month's City Council Meeting, Mayor Emanuel introduced new gun control legislation that provides stiffer penalties for breaking the law and expanding the requirement for reporting the loss or theft of a firearm.

Additionally, he has asked city pensions to divest from gun manufacturers. I look forward to voting in favor of the Mayor's legislation and taking the first step on the path to reducing gun violence.

What Can You Do?

• Nationally: You can sign Senator Durbin's petition in support of common sense gun regulations.

• In Chicago: If you have a pension or retirement fund, you can ask its manager to determine if it is invested in a company that manufactures or sells assault weapons and ask them to divest.

What about Crime?

Some people believe that a gun is necessary to defend themselves against the possibility of home invasion. But alas, that is not the case. Instead, guns are often stolen and used in crimes elsewhere.

The single biggest type of crime in Lincoln Park is burglary — where a door or garage door is left open, or where a door is easily popped open with a crowbar. Look for our upcoming anti-crime program, where we'll teach you simple, inexpensive ways to dramatically increase your and your home's personal security.

Sincerely,

43rd Ward Alderman Michele Smith