A local mayor's assertion that the so-called "easy availability" of firearms is a direct contributor to gang violence is absurd. Here in Utah, we have long enjoyed the ability to purchase a firearm whenever we want or need one.

In our area, the increase in firearm-related crimes is directly related to only one factor: the increased presence and posturing of gangs.Legislation concerning firearm sales should target gang members, not the citizens who go through all legal channels to obtain self-protection. Only ignorance could excuse the rationale that "anti-gun" equals "anti-gang."

A seven-day waiting period would only affect those who use legal means to obtain guns, such as law-abiding citizens. The waiting period legislation in no way guarantees that a background check be done; it only allows for such a check.

Like it or not, firearms sales in Utah are brisk, and a paper-based background check on firearm purchases would only further overburden our police departments.

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Much more realistic would be the computer-based NRA-sponsored background check, which is done instantaneously at the point of sale.

Such checks are already on-line in other parts of the country and have proven far more effective at preventing sales to criminals than paper-based background checks and waiting periods.

Mike Sawyer

Orem

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