Local gun shop owners are dealing with an increase in local gun sales since President Barack Obama enacted an executive order in the name of gun control last week.
The executive actions, which the administration called “commonsense”, have been designed to expand background checks and reduce gun violence throughout the country.
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“Some of the gaps in our country’s gun laws can only be fixed through legislation, which is why the President continues to call on Congress to pass the kind of commonsense gun safety reforms supported by a majority of the American people,” notes The Office of the Press Secretary in a January 4 release. “Gun violence has taken a heartbreaking toll on too many communities across the country. Over the past decade in America, more than 100,000 people have been killed as a result of gun violence—and millions more have been the victim of assaults, robberies, and other crimes involving a gun.”
The executive order outlines four specific actions that the administration plans to take to help curb the nation’s issue; including: keeping guns out of the wrong hands through background checks, making communities safer from gun violence, increasing mental health treatment, and shaping the future of gun safety technology.
According to the White House release, the FBI is overhauling the background check system to make it more efficient. “The envisioned improvements include processing background checks 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and improving notification of local authorities when certain prohibited persons unlawfully attempt to buy a gun.” To read the full executive order click here.
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The executive order will also ensure that such background checks are given regardless of where gun sales are made – in an attempt to keep guns out of the hands of those who cannot pass a standard background check through a gun shop.
Mike’s Gun Shop on Levittown Parkway in Tullytown has seen more than just a steady flow of regular customers. While the owner declined to comment on his feelings regarding the executive action, he said business has been booming. “Just like with any tragedy or incident like this gun sales soar,” he said. “I barely have time now to talk to you, we have been so busy.”
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Those employed at Surplus City in Feasterville and Johnston’s Sporting Goods in Croydon both declined to comment on the action.
It was estimated that gun sales would soar after the executive action last week, being that they’ve also increased after instances throughout the country when gun violence has come to a head.
Ahead of Obama’s announcement last week, shares in the firearm empire Smith and Wesson rose to their highest value since 1999. The number of background checks has also risen, according to a BBC report.
