Summary
The article “Relation of driving under the influence laws to access to firearms across US states” aims to determine how different American states have their laws on driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI), triggering federal prohibition and purchase of firearms. The researchers performed a primary legislative study to categorize DUI in each state. The interplay of state and federal laws creates a complex legal environment, and the assessment of firearm laws and how they affect ownership should address the two simultaneously. However, there are variations among other states, including Columbia and Massachusetts, on such elements as the number of DUI that can result in restrictions. However, the prohibitions drawn from alcohol misuse are difficult to enforce since they lack objective criteria.
Reflection
When studying the idea of firearm purchase and possession, it is imperative to note that there are numerous complexities associated with it. The second amendment of the United States Constitution allows citizens to own guns as a human right. However, the DUI convictions raise the concern of public safety when these individuals are guaranteed their rights. The issues arise from such misdemeanors as violating driving laws and driving under intoxication. As such, federal restrictions react to these instances resulting in the prohibition of firearm ownership for released prisoners.
References
Ruben, Eric M. “Justifying perceptions in First and Second Amendment doctrine.” Law & Contemp. Probs. 80 (2017): 149.
Spitzer, R. J. (2017). Gun law history in the United States and Second Amendment rights. Law & Contemp. Probs., 80, 55.