There are questions about why the law wasn't invoked and how the effectiveness of 'red flag laws' passed in 19 states and the District of Columbia can differ based on how they're implemented.
Red-flag laws are often adopted after tragedies. Florida did so after the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland that killed 17 students. Law enforcement officials had received numerous complaints about the 19-year-old gunman's threatening statements.
But, Swanson added:"The issue is it's so easy for people to get guns anyway. ... It's not a one-thing problem, and there's not one solution to it either."The 2019 law allows family members, prosecutors, police and school officials to ask courts to order the seizure of guns from someone who poses a danger to themselves or others. The subject of the court action is also prohibited from buying guns while the order is in effect.
The online description, crafted before the Buffalo shooting, expresses optimism about the law's impact, saying it would both safeguard gun rights"while ensuring that tragedies, like the school shooting in Parkland, Florida, are not repeated."Someone seeking an order files a simple, two-page application with the primary county court. It's considered a civil case, with no criminal charge or penalties involved.
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