The NRA and Background Checks: Debunking Misconceptions

The National Rifle Association (NRA) has long been a central figure in the debate surrounding gun control in the United States. One common argument against background checks is that they do not affect law-abiding citizens. However, this belief is misleading. In this article, we will explore the impact of background checks on law-abiding citizens and why the NRA supports them.

The Impact of Background Checks on Law-Abiding Citizens

While it is true that criminals are unlikely to undergo a background check, background checks still have a significant impact on law-abiding citizens. According to the data from 2020, there were approximately 40 million firearm background checks conducted by the US government. Each background check costs around $1500, resulting in a total of approximately $6 billion in expenses. This is a substantial cost, reflecting the significant burden on law-abiding citizens.

Why Background Checks Are Crucial

Beyond the financial impact, background checks serve a critical purpose. The primary goal of background checks is to prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands. The NRA supports background checks not to inconvenience law-abiding gun owners but to ensure that firearms remain in the hands of responsible individuals.

Historical Precedents of Misuse of Regulations

Historic examples, such as New York City's Sullivan Law, demonstrate the potential for misuse of gun regulations. Introduced in 1911, the Sullivan Law required individuals to prove a NEED to own a firearm, a requirement later extended to encompass most minorities. Licenses were even sold to prohibited individuals, and fake police officers with proper credentials purchased firearms. These events highlight the need for comprehensive and effective background checks.

The Work of the NRA

The NRA has compromised to establish the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) and the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act. Their support for these systems is rooted in the belief that a background check system should be instantaneous to prevent a right from being delayed. Additionally, the NRA aims to minimize the impact on law-abiding purchasers while ensuring that background checks are effective in preventing firearms from reaching criminals.

The NRA recognizes that the current system needs improvement and continues to work to enhance it. They believe that a well-functioning background check system is essential for responsible gun ownership and public safety.

Conclusion

The NRA's support for background checks is not driven by a desire to inconvenience law-abiding citizens but to ensure that firearms are used responsibly. The impact of background checks on law-abiding citizens is significant and cannot be overlooked. The historical precedents of misuse and the continuous work of the NRA highlight the necessity of a well-implemented background check system.