MegaProphet wrote:I think stricter gun control laws should be put into place. I do not know if they would prevent these tragedies, but I also do not know why a member of the general public would possibly need an assault rifle. I think the loophole that allows people to be sold guns online or at a gun show without a background check needs to be closed because minors, criminals, and people with known psychiatric problems should not be sold guns. I think these are reasonable restrictions.
I do not think the solution is arming teachers. How much would it cost to train them? Where is this money coming from? Can they be trusted with guns? Both to keep them away from minors and to not misuse them?
After reading this thread I've come to agree with Woodruff that the solution is to change the way mental illness is looked at in this country. However I think that may be more difficult to accomplish. Banning guns is being touted as the solution by many because it seems like an easy fix.
Actually, giving teachers with a concealed carry permit the right to carry in school is not a bad idea. Administrators and local law could select individuals from a pool of volunteers already possessing a concealed carry permit, then law enforcement can run them through a short training/orientation program, which I am willing to bet the cops would provide at no charge. As the teachers have already obtained their permit and own their own weapon, no cost there either. This process should go a long way to alleviating your trust issues. As for keeping them away from students, there are so many secure conceal carry rigs available this really isn't an issue. Again, we are talking about a person who has been vetted by his superiors and local law.
Now, before ya'll pantywaist gun-haters start your whinin', we aren't talking teachers/school employees playing Wyatt Earp. Obviously, the lunatic with weapon in hand has the advantage over the cc in a surprise confrontation. However, in situations where there is some slight warning, such as the sound of gunfire and screams, the cc can get his weapon at the ready, surprising the lunatic. Will innocents still die? Unfortunately, sometimes yes. But the carnage can be greatly lessened by one armed person the lunatic doesn't know about.
Oh, and woody, before you start telling us all about your superior weapons training as a lil' air doggy, please remember that I too am a veteran, and I too have been quite thoroughly trained in the care and feeding of firearms. At least as well as you, probably better.
Asst. Gatekeeper, XI Games.