I have supported movement to an effective instant check system as rapidly as possible so that checks will not delay the vast majority of gun purchases that are legitimate. I also oppose maintaining permanent records created by the checks. During the recent Juvenile Crime bill, the Senate was presented with amendments that sought to ensure that effective background checks would occur at gun shows, in relation to sales generated by the internet, and at pawn shops. I voted for these amendments. However, I oppose proposals that would block or eliminate these methods of sale.
Gun shows are legitimate enterprises and most customers and exhibitors follow the law.
I share the view of many gun owners that more effective enforcement of our current gun laws is likely to have a greater impact on preventing violence than additional gun laws. To this end, I supported measures in the Juvenile Crime bill that seek to expand prosecutions of criminals who illegally attempt to buy a gun in violation of current law. I also support programs such as Virginia's Project Exile. This program teams federal prosecution with local law enforcement to target felons who are found to illegally possess guns. These criminals are kept off the streets and sent to federal prisons.