Locals React to Possible Gun Law Changes
JACKSON, Tenn. – Residents are reacting to the president’s plan to curb gun violence no later than January. West Tennessee gun shop workers told WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News they have been extra busy recently, since Christmas is next week. However, not all buyers are shopping for presents. Dale Poyhonen said he is buying a larger pistol because he figured they might sell out. “People are going to be in such a hurry to get guns, just in case they start banning guns,” Poyhonen said. “I hope they don’t ban pistols. In fact, I hope they don’t ban guns period. But they need to do something about the shootings in the schools.” He is not alone. According to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, they performed more than 9,700 background checks last weekend statewide – more than the second biggest weekend on record. “I think a little bit better background checks, and people that notice people are acting strange, I think they should be reported and checked out. Find out if they have guns, and if they’re going to be a danger,” Poyhonen said. Most residents WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News spoke with said having more gun control will not really make a difference. “It’s the law abiding citizen that goes through the proper channels. It’s the criminal who gets guns,” said gun owner Rick Savage. Local gun owners said they fear the government will take away their second amendment rights. Some said they hope the feds only go after assault rifles. “They’re more dangerous, and we don’t need them. We have rifles, shot guns to hunt with. We don’t need assault rifles. I hope they ban all of them,” gun owner Charles Warlick said. The TBI said prior to the Connecticut elementary school shooting, the second biggest weekend for gun sales was Black Friday, and the two days afterward in November.
