Gun Control Reform Activism

While I don't oppose "shall issue" systems (I suspect you're unsurprised by that... ), I'd like to see the requirements for the permit significantly tightened. Nope, I'm not a "constitutional carry" advocate.* I'd like to see some additional criteria added to the list of things that would disqualify an applicant: any kind of violent crime (even misdemeanors), DUI/PI (although I would be receptive to exemptions granted on completion of a certified substance abuse program), any issuance of a restraining order for domestic violence (many states already do this), being under treatment for certain mental health conditions, and more.

I'd like to see a requirement for a genuine demonstration of competency; some states have NO such requirement, others have standards that don't go much beyond a "warm body" test. Basically, I'd like to see an indication that the applicant is someone who spends some real time at the range on a regular basis...the field test shouldn't be easy in terms of marksmanship, and should have a "zero tolerance" policy in terms of any sort of unsafe gun handling. Someone who goes shooting once a year isn't someone I think should be regularly carrying in public. Of course, I also think a driver's license should be a lot harder to get, so maybe it's just me.

Choosing to arm one's self is a matter that should be treated as one of life and death...because that's precisely what it is. A cavalier approach is completely unacceptable.

*Yes, I understand that no-permit CCW has always worked just fine in Vermont...but Vermont is hardly a typical US state in so very many aspects.