AMA calls for background checks, wait periods to prevent gun violence

The AMA adopted policy calling for background checks and a waiting period for all firearms purchasers, expanding on its previous policy of requiring the same for only handguns. The AMA also is urging prohibitions on the sale, import and manufacture of guns made of plastic, ceramics or other material that cannot be detected by screening devices.

"The shooting in Orlando is a horritic reminder of the public health crisis of gun violence rippling across the United States," AMA Immediate-Past President Steven J. Stack, MD, said in a news release. "Mass killers have used AR-15s, rifles and handguns, and today we strengthened our policy on background checks and waiting periods to cover them all, with the goal of keeping lethal weapons out of the hands of dangerous people."

Eighteen states have background check requirements, but the provisions vary widely. The AMA considers firearms a public health issue. The newest policy builds on numerous AMA policies that support increased firearm safety to reduce and prevent firearm violence. The policy is consistent with recent action by the American Psychiatric Association and with a 2014 call to action by eight medical organizations.

Earlier at the 2016 AMA Annual Meeting, the AMA adopted policy calling gun violence in the United States “a public health crisis” requiring a comprehensive public health response and solution. Additionally, the AMA resolved to lobby Congress to overturn legislation that for 20 years has prohibited the ...

Source: AMA Wire - June 15, 2016 Category: Journals (General) Authors: Troy Parks Source Type: news