Centralize that data

The United States is one of the most technologically advanced countries on this planet, yet we apparently cannot construct a system that provides a central location for background checks, psychological reports and criminal alerts. I watched a news program the other day with law enforcement experts who claimed such a system would provide the necessary clearinghouse for those wishing to purchase weapons.

Gun laws will not be enacted by Congress any time soon, so having a system to alert us to the possibility of a tragedy that seems to be recurring at our schools needs attention now. If we can propose billions for a border wall, we certainly can act on an urgent need to construct an electronic wall that will provide information to our law enforcement agencies. Certainly, even the National Rifle Association can buy into a system like this.

The news program I spoke of mentioned that some parts of the system were already in place, but that coordination between law enforcement agencies is necessary. We have large technology companies that I am sure can provide the assistance needed to construct such a system. The military may already have a system to vet potential terrorists, and perhaps it can be adjusted to be used on a civilian basis.

Social media organizations already acquire personal data on individuals. Computers can easily watch the communications to see if certain phrases are mentioned to indicate a problem and action then be taken.

Folks, this is not difficult, so what are we waiting for?

GEORGE WILKEN

Little Rock