A Closer Look at the Rising Epidemic of Mass Shootings in the United States and Its Association With Gun Legislation, Laws, and Sales

Different Responses Are Needed to Manage Mass Shootings

“…The Public Safety and Recreational Firearms Use Protection Act, commonly referred to as the Federal Assault Weapons Ban, was enacted in 1994 and expired in 2004, with no new subsequent federal firearm laws 1. It is important to note that most young mass shooters obtained their weapons from family members and that more than half of state/federal criminals committed a crime with a firearm that was obtained illegally, circumventing legislation 2…”

“…There have already been more than 200 mass shootings this year as of May 8, which is the 128th day of the year! There is usually a spike in the sales of guns after a mass shooting, likely in response to fear and believing a gun will offer personal protection 2. The other possibility for the increase is the expectation that legislation will be passed that will make it more difficult to purchase firearms 2.…”

“…There is usually a spike in the sales of guns after a mass shooting, likely in response to fear and believing a gun will offer personal protection 2. The other possibility for the increase is the expectation that legislation will be passed that will make it more difficult to purchase firearms 2. It is interesting that researchers found that mass shootings widely covered by the media were associated with increased gun sales; however, those shootings with high fatality rates had an inverse relationship with the purchase of firearms 3…”

“…1 It is important to note that most young mass shooters obtained their weapons from family members and that more than half of state/federal criminals committed a crime with a firearm that was obtained illegally, circumventing legislation. 2 Unfortunately, mass shootings are becoming an everyday occurrence in the United States. There have already been more than 200 mass shootings this year as of May 8, which is the 128th day of the year!…”

“…There is usually a spike in the sales of guns after a mass shooting, likely in response to fear and believing a gun will offer personal protection. 2 The other possibility for the increase is the expectation that legislation will be passed that will make it more difficult to purchase firearms. 2 It Disclosure: The author has disclosed that she has no significant relationships with, or financial interest in, any commercial companies pertaining to this article.…”