Gun laws that work

Re: The Danforth shooting coverage, July 24

The tragedy on the Danforth in Toronto is rightfully leading to much-needed discussion as to the adequacy of Canada’s gun laws. Legislators say that the issue is complex. The fundamental problem here is that those in charge are trying to craft a law where one size fits all and are trying to balance the competing views of urban and rural constituencies where risk and social attitudes toward gun possession are dramatically different.

The answer to this problem is the kind of local option that prevailed during Prohibition. While continuing with the sort of general laws now in place (hopefully tweaked and enhanced), new provisions could provide for a special enhanced level of regulation which could be adopted by local referendum. This enhanced regulation would completely ban possession of guns within the geographic areas in which the local referendum was passed (no gun zones).

The ban would still allow for certain highly regulated and restricted licences (police, etc.) which would allow a very limited number of persons to possess guns within the no gun zone.

Areas that do not hold a referendum would continue with the existing law, but licences and permits given in these areas would not apply within the no gun zone.

This law would be simple. If you are found with a gun in a no gun zone you face sanction. The focus is on where you are, not who you are.