SD Gun Owners Talk Potential Policies
by Laura Monteverdi, Reporter
February 09, 2013 7:03 PM
On Thursday, the United States House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force announced 15 gun control policies they are recommending to Congress to curb gun violence.
For many gun owners and gun enthusiasts, some of the recent recommendations regarding gun control have them concerned.
Dustin Batterman received his first gun when he was just 15-years-old and has been a loyal member of the NRA for the last 10 years.
“They (the NRA) have the ability to be on Capitol Hill fighting for my freedoms so if I can support them with the smallest amount of money it takes to support them, it's well worth it in my opinion,” said Batterman.
Batterman said he agrees with some of the task force’s recommendations, like taking steps to enhance school safety.
“I think it's preparation and we have a responsibility to protect our children, especially right here in South Dakota," said Batterman.
However, there are other recommendations, like the federal ban on assault weapons, which he firmly disagrees with.
“I think legislating one platform, or creating legislation to get rid of one platform is foolishness,” said Batterman.
He isn’t alone. Many other gun owners have mixed feelings on which measures should be taken to curb gun violence.
“I think it's our goal to do things to prevent that, but disarming law abiding citizens is not something I agree with,” said Scott Boothe of Sioux Falls.
Boothe agrees with the House's policy recommendation to close holes in the mental health system, getting guns out of the hands of those with mental health issues.
“If we are able to keep guns away from those folks I think that's a good step in the right direction,” said Boothe.
Boothe also believes guns owners shouldn't be punished for other people's actions.
“It's important that when our politicians are making these decisions that they make decisions that support legal, law abiding citizens instead of criminalizing them,” said Boothe.
Many gun owners we spoke to say they also agree with the policy that supports responsible gun ownership and say safety training and gun research is necessary before purchasing a gun.
