Most states did nothing. Some even loosened gun restrictions. Compared to the coverage that would have suggested a tidal wave, it's been a tiny ripple. Guns already filled legislative agendas before the massacre in Littleton, Colo., in which two students hurled explosives and blasted away with four guns, killing 13 people and themselves. After Columbine, statehouses paid even more attention to bills on school safety, concealed weapons, safe gun storage and lawsuits against the gun industry.
Some states act Some states did take action.
In California, the Legislature restricted gun purchases to one a month. Democratic Gov. Gray Davis plans to sign both Monday. In Illinois now, gun owners must lock weapons away from anyone under 14, and school officials must alert police if students bring firearms to school. Penalties for crimes committed with guns also are stiffer. In some cases, Columbine has simply silenced gun debate.