Bill Maher
Bill Maher made a mistake discussing gun laws in Missouri after a shooting incident during the Super Bowl parade in Kansas City. Maher incorrectly stated that there are no background checks in Missouri, but in reality, federal law mandates background checks for gun purchases from licensed dealers in all states, including Missouri.
Background checks
“No background checks. That’s the law in Missouri. No background checks. In Missouri, 79% support background checks. Nationally, 87%,” Maher said.
Private sales
While some private sales in Missouri may not require background checks, Maher’s claim about the absence of background checks in the state is inaccurate. It’s important for public figures like Maher to ensure the accuracy of their statements, especially on sensitive and divisive topics like gun laws.
Biden’s confirmation
President Biden’s successful confirmation of ATF Director Steve Dettelbach underscores the administration’s commitment to advancing the agency’s mission of enforcing the nation’s gun laws.
Gun intelligence
The establishment of crime gun intelligence centers, facilitated by collaboration with state and local law enforcement, serves as a crucial initiative to leverage the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN) and crime gun tracing for solving shootings and identifying gun trafficking channels.
Administration’s call
The administration’s call for universal background checks and efforts to increase funding for the ATF reflect a pivotal focus on fortifying the federal gun background check system and enhancing the agency’s capacity to combat the flow of illegal firearms into communities.
Gun trafficking
Notably, the ATF’s publication of gun trafficking analyses has provided valuable insights, shedding light on the prevalence of unlicensed firearms dealings and straw purchasers in ATF gun trafficking investigations.
Milestone
In 2022, President Biden achieved a significant milestone by signing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act into law, which broadened the category of gun sellers required to conduct background checks. This legislative victory represented a crucial step towards closing background check loopholes and enhancing firearm regulations.
Executive order
Additionally, the administration’s executive order to accelerate the implementation of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act underscores its determination to advance firearm safety measures.
Biden administration
The Biden administration has sought to promote safe gun storage and education as part of its comprehensive firearms safety plan. The administration’s gun control policy has encountered challenges and resistance, particularly from opponents who assert that certain measures infringe upon Second Amendment rights.
Gun safety
Nevertheless, the administration continues to advocate for responsible gun safety legislation and executive actions to address the pressing issue of gun violence in the United States.
Determined
The Biden administration’s gun control policy reflects a comprehensive and determined effort to promote firearm safety, enhance background checks, and combat the illicit trafficking of firearms.
Legislative victories
Through legislative victories, executive actions, and advocacy for responsible gun ownership, the administration is steadfast in its commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges associated with gun-related violence and promoting the well-being of communities across the nation.