Gun control overdue

A common-sense discussion about gun violence is long overdue in our state. Let's step back from the drastic approach in SB 656 and begin a serious discussion concerning the proliferation of guns and gun violence.

As a Vietnam-era veteran trained in the use of the M-16 rifle, I know that this weapon was designed for one purpose only, to effectively and efficiently kill the enemy. I see no rational reason for a non-military gun owner to possess such a weapon, let alone carry one in public.

SB 656 provisions indicate a complete lack of understanding of the very dangerous differences between a standard revolver and a semiautomatic pistol. Furthermore, the open carry provision, as well as restrictions placed upon law enforcement personnel, are reminiscent of the wide open towns of the Old West!

As teachers with 77 years of experience, we do not understand the reason to believe that arming school personnel and classroom teachers with weapons is a solution to the problem of school violence.

The current problem of expanding gun violence is something that Missourians should work together on to find solutions. Since nationally at least 80 percent of all citizens agree that more effective and thorough background checks are needed to curb gun violence, it is time for our state to find a better solution than just putting more guns into the hands of more people.

DRS. ROBERT M. AND ANN P GIFFORD,

Cape Girardeau