22 August 2009

On The Constitutionality of Gun Registration

A fascinating, and simultaneously disturbing discussion on the constitutionality of firearms registration is taking place within legal circles. A horrible public policy, everyone agrees. But would it be constitutional?

Read it here.

I'm no attorney, but the U.S. Constitution says the government may not infringe on the rights to bear arms. But could it be permissable to register all guns? Interestingly, the mood in the nation is toward the right to own guns. Women are buying firearms in record numbers. More people have concealed carry licenses than ever before. The Heller decision by the U.S. Supreme Court affirmed the affirmation by the Founders of this nation that the Second Amendment is an individual right. Washington DC was forced to abandon its antiquated prohibition on the ownership of handguns. Chicago is on the ropes trying to defend its antiquated handgun regs.

Even President Obama, abandoning his traditional gun control position, noted that an african american gentleman carrying a competition rifle had a right to do so, when the man showed up at a rally. Official Washington, those that know how to get things done, and how to keep the peace, want no part of gun control right now.

The president's whacky health care initiatives are on the ropes, Americans of all colors, stripes and economic backgrounds increasingly are stepping up and protesting the intrusion of government into their lives, whether it be in banking, the automobile industry, insurance industry, or elsewhere.

So the liklihood of major gun registration initiatives picking up any traction right now are negligible.

But is it constitutional?

4 comments:

Papa Ray said...

The danger is, as I'm sure you have thought of, is that once registered they (being the government) knows what weapons you have.

Is there a danger in that should be the question.

Under the present and possible future governments, I personally would say: Yes there is.

But that is something each person has to determine for themselves.

I for one, had three guns stolen this year. So in order for them not to be stolen, I won't "buy" anymore.

Papa Ray
West Texas

Brent Greer said...

I tend to agree that that danger exists. We have seen it in other nations, and in other states in the U.S. Sadly, it may be indeed constitutional, though the "list" could and likely would be used for nefarious reasons as history has taught us in California and elsewhere. I am sorry about your troubles this past year. I can't imagine the frustration this has caused you. Thanks for reading TRL and for leaving the comment!

BobG said...

It is constitutional, but it is a sign of bad faith on the part of the government; the only reason for registration is to aid confiscation at a future date.

Brent Greer said...

Bob, sadly, I concur. Thanks for stopping by.