un lobbyists and organizations like the National Rifle Association. Both the President Clinton and Vice President Gore are pushing for tougher gun regulations that would expand the Brady Act to include sales at gun shows and even forge new legislation. It seems that the leaders of the country are finally realizing that the problem goes deeper than just the sale of guns. In the past, the gun problem was fought like the war on drugs. Instead of attacking the root of the problem, government focused on trying to stop the sale of drugs. History teaches that if there is a need it will be filled - simple supply and demand. Perhaps focusing on better educational systems and living conditions would offer a more long term solution. Al Gore recently submitted a proposal, although not yet passed, that would do just that. Congress has, however, recently passed a modified version of legislation backed by President Clinton to extend the ban on gun ownership to include individuals convicted of a misdemeanor involving domestic violence, including child and spousal abuse. The taboo surrounding effective gun legislation finally seems to be lifting, but after the horror of Littleton and Conyers diminishes, will these efforts fizzle out? Either way, the issue is sure to find its way into the upcoming election platforms, promising at least some focus on the subject (Shepard: A1). There are many policy options that government should consider legislating. One option would be to ban entire categories of weapons, or at least to limit their sale and use. Limiting ammunition holds promise in breaking the cycle of violence as well. Metal shredding Acop killer@ bullets are already illegal in most states. Another option is to limit the sale of high tech features on guns such as long range sights and night vision equipment. At the risk of sounding arrogant, this would at least bring some of the criminals out into the open. Some gun manufacturers are...
