Oregon legislature approves new gun control law

(MAY 10, 2021) Guns are a difficult topic in the U.S. People disagree about guns. People have different opinions.

Some people want more freedom. They don't want laws to control gun sales, ownership, or use. Others want more laws about guns. They think guns are dangerous. They say the government should control them more.

Oregon might have a new gun-control law soon. The law was recently approved by the state House of Representatives. It was also approved by the state Senate. If Governor Kate Brown agrees with the legislature, then it becomes law in Oregon.

“Gun violence is a public health crisis. We’ve lost far too many loved ones to shootings and today we took a meaningful step toward preventing these unspeakable tragedies,” said Senator Ginny Burdick. “Suicides are increasing. Gun violence is increasing. A firearm that is not safely stored is a threat."

The new law requires safe storage of guns. That means owners must secure their guns with a lock. Owners must store their gun in a locked container or room. The law bans guns from Oregon's Capitol building in Salem and the airport in Portland. It also allows schools to ban guns.

Supporters say the new law will reduce gun violence. Other people say that it interferes with their rights.