It is time that we pass legislation requiring universal background checks for all gun sales in Utah. Polling data shows that more than 90% of gun owners, non-gun owners and most NRA members support this policy.
It is time to pass background checks when we know that domestic abusers, violent criminals and those with serious mental illness can easily buy a gun from an unlicensed seller, no questions asked. When 25% of gun sales happen without a background check. When 80% of all firearms used for criminal purposes are acquired without a background check.
Because of these staggering statistics, Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson implemented a requirement for all gun sales and transfers occurring at gun shows held at facilities owned by Salt Lake County to undergo background checks starting in January.
Guess what, the first gun show of the year at the county-owned Mountain America Expo Center in Sandy went smoothly. It cost $8 and took only a few minutes. As a gun owner, I do not feel my rights are being threatened. I feel safer.
Please support Rep. Brian King’s HB109: Universal Background Checks for Firearm Purchasers, and thank Jenny Wilson for her efforts.
Claudia Fruin, Salt Lake City