Gun Control and Criminal Law: Government Loosens Gun Control Laws After Mass Shootings, Studies Show

In the aftermath of mass shootings, many state and federal lawmakers propose stricter gun laws. Yet, research shows that in the wake of these tragic events, gun laws actual loosen after mass shootings. According to the New York Times, three Harvard Business School Professors found that in states with Republican-controlled legislatures, the number of laws that loosened gun restrictions increased by 75%.

        Washington Post, gun rights advocates push loudly for loosening gun laws after mass shootings, citing self-defense for their reasoning. The researchers found that politicians tend to use mass shootings to promote their own agendas. Those who want looser gun laws will use the event to push for fewer restrictions, while those who want to tighten gun laws will use the event to promote greater regulation.

    Public opinion tends to trend toward increasing gun control laws after mass shootings take place. Nationally, both Republicans and Democrats favor more gun control. Yet, according to the

            In Florida, for instance, where the most recent mass shooting took place, Republicans control the legislature. Statistically, chances are that Florida’s gun laws will be loosened in the coming year rather than tightened. Of course, only time will tell. The magnitude of the crimes committed as well as the communities affected can have effects on whether people fight for policy changes when Florida’s legislature meets in March 2017. Still, March is a long way away, and time changes public fervor.

            The study doesn’t consider cases where major tragedies elsewhere in the country affected laws in other states. For instance, after the Sandy Hook shooting, 39 states tightened gun ownership laws. The study focused on mass shootings within each individual state and looked into how these shootings impacted legislative action.

            New York City’s gun laws require owners to hold a permit in order to carry a gun. While there is no specific law banning the open carrying of a gun, pistol permit holders are required to carry their weapons concealed, meaning that individuals will require a concealed weapons permit in order to carry a gun in New York. While individuals are required to get a permit to own a pistol, individuals who wish to own a long gun for hunting purposes are not required to get a permit. Also, a New York state concealed license won’t necessarily apply in New York City. Individuals must apply for a New York City concealed weapons license. If you’re facing criminal charges based on New York City’s gun laws, it is wise to speak to a qualified criminal defense lawyer. The lawyers at the Spodek Law Group, P.C. in New York may be able to assist you, if you’re facing concealed weapon charges.

            Under the law, New York City’s gun laws vary from New York state laws. If you’re considering carrying a concealed weapon in New York City, it is important to understand the law. For instance, if you drink and carry a concealed weapon, you could face certain penalties.

            If you’re facing criminal charges related to gun sale or gun use, a criminal defense lawyer may be able to help you. Spodek Law Group, P.C. is a criminal defense lawyer working for the people of New York City. Visit www.spodeklawgroup.com today.