In a troubling legislative move, Congress is advancing a bill that would enable approximately 75,000 individuals with mental health issues to purchase firearms. These papers are currently awaiting President Trump’s signature, likely while he continues to tout his electoral triumphs and suggest widespread voter fraud.
Recently, the Senate repealed an Obama-era regulation that prohibited the sale of guns to Social Security beneficiaries who require assistance in managing their finances. This decision was made in the wake of the tragic Sandy Hook shooting, where Adam Lanza, who struggled with various mental health disorders, took the lives of 20 children.
Let me clarify—I’m not suggesting that everyone with a mental health diagnosis is dangerous. However, it seems reasonable to conclude that if your mental health condition causes you to have suicidal thoughts or exhibit violent behavior, then possessing a lethal weapon might not be the best idea. But, of course, gun sales remain a top priority for the NRA.
Connecticut Senator Lisa Harper aptly pointed out during the hearings, “If you can’t manage your finances, how can we trust you with a lethal firearm?” It’s a valid question that deserves attention.
When my daughter returned home from her first day of second grade, she recounted a strict rule her teacher implemented: no play involving guns, whether on the playground or in class. The teacher’s personal experience, having lost her husband to gun violence, made this rule particularly significant. My daughter listened intently, absorbing the gravity of such a personal story, even at her young age.
Throughout the school year, she grappled with complex emotions about guns and violence. Some days, she wanted to discuss the reasons behind such actions and whether guns could ever serve a positive purpose. Other days, she focused on her teacher’s loss, trying to understand the circumstances surrounding it.
These conversations were challenging, but perhaps made easier because I had always discouraged her from engaging in pretend gunplay. Surprisingly, she had never shown much interest in such activities—often opting for sticks to wield as magic wands instead. However, many of her classmates struggled with the strict gun policy, often returning home to tales of frustration over being reprimanded for something they felt was acceptable elsewhere.
Guns are designed to kill, right? Why would I want my children playing with toys that mimic that reality? I understand that some kids aspire to become soldiers, police officers, or hunters, envisioning themselves as heroes in their narratives. Even children who have never encountered real firearms sometimes imitate shooting, as though it’s an ingrained part of human behavior. Research indicates that engaging in aggressive play can be beneficial for emotional regulation in children.
However, it’s important to note that in 2014, firearms ranked as the second leading cause of death among children aged 1 to 19 in the U.S. That statistic is staggering.
For these reasons, I will not allow my children to play with toy guns. I plan to ask other parents about firearm presence in their homes and educate my kids on the necessity of respecting guns. If they choose to pursue careers in law enforcement or the military, they will have their entire adult lives to do so.
As for the 75,000 individuals now granted access to firearms, I sincerely hope our nation doesn’t regret the reckless choices being made by officials swayed by the NRA. For more insights on this topic, check out another piece we have on Cervical Insemination.
In summary, the recent legislative decision to allow individuals with mental health issues to access firearms raises significant concerns about public safety and responsible gun ownership. We must prioritize the welfare of our children and communities over political interests.