The Intelligence from The Economist No magic bullet: a Congressional agreement on guns
Jun 14, 2022
Rosemary Ward, who covers Northeast America for The Economist, discusses the recent bipartisan efforts in Congress to address gun control after tragic mass shootings. Alok Jha, the science correspondent, dives into the exciting rethinking of what constitutes extraterrestrial life, emphasizing a broader definition beyond Earth. They also explore the surprising appeal of mundane simulation games like 'Power Wash Simulator', revealing how these seemingly boring experiences can provide players with a satisfying sense of accomplishment.
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Red Flag Laws
- The deal includes funding for mental health, school safety, and "red flag" laws.
- Red flag laws allow judges to seize guns from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others.
Enhanced Background Checks
- While some Republicans resisted raising the gun-buying age to 21, the deal enhances background checks for buyers under 21.
- It also includes the first federal law against gun trafficking and straw purchasing, addressing concerns about young people acquiring guns.
Closing the Boyfriend Loophole
- The deal addresses gun use in domestic violence by closing the "boyfriend loophole".
- This prevents convicted domestic abusers from buying guns, regardless of marital status, addressing a rising concern of domestic violence.