Letter: Enact gun laws that will save lives

Our hearts are broken by the senseless shooting in Las Vegas. There will never be adequate answers to the question of why someone would commit such a horrific act of violence against people one does not even know. But is the U.S. harboring a disproportionate number of homicidal maniacs than other civilized countries? Consider that there have been 243 mass shootings in the U.S. so far.

We attended the Iowans for Gun Safety's 'Concert Across America to End Gun Violence” just a few days ago. Several speakers including our Cedar Rapids police chief were unified in a desire to reduce violence in our communities. It was heartening to see people from all parts of the community come together for this cause.

There is one action that would have a huge impact on reducing these senseless killings: End the online loophole. This gives individuals the chance to purchase military assault style weapons with no oversight.

Another idea is that we reinstate the assault weapons ban that President George W. Bush allowed to expire. This ban absolutely saved lives and is a 'no-brainer.”

Before we begin to further restrict the carrying of bags around town and other nearly impossible or unenforceable notions, let's begin with the actions that would absolutely save lives. We need to demand this from our elected leaders.

Rhiannon and Tom Hall

Cedar Rapids