SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — South Dakota has received a failing grade in a recent evaluation of its gun legislation conducted by the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence. The organization, which focuses on promoting gun safety, cited the state’s “weak laws” as the primary reason for this low rating.
Despite the criticism, local responses vary. Kevin Jensen, a Republican senator-elect from Canton, expressed skepticism about the grading system used, labeling the Giffords Law Center as a “liberal, anti-gun organization.”
Julie Parker, the South Dakota Chapter Leader for Moms Demand Action, highlighted the effectiveness of certain gun control measures that have been implemented in other states. She pointed out that background checks, waiting periods, and secure firearm storage have historically helped in reducing gun-related fatalities. Parker also noted a concerning statistic from 2021 that indicated more than half of the state’s gun deaths were suicides. She asserted that stricter gun laws could also support mental health initiatives.
The issue of mental health was echoed by Jensen, although he has actively supported legislation to loosen gun restrictions. He argued for a greater emphasis on mental health to address violence, rather than focusing solely on gun legislation.
Jensen also criticized the discourse surrounding guns, dismissing the term “gun violence” as misleading. He maintained that violence is a human action and shifting the blame to guns obscures the real issues.
Legislation passed recently in South Dakota illustrates the state’s current stance on gun control. A law now allows individuals with an enhanced concealed carry permit to bring a firearm onto school premises, with authorization from the school’s principal or person in charge. Jensen argued that this measure is necessary for defending against potential threats, such as an active shooter situation.
This law, supported by Jensen, passed both the state House and Senate with ease and was signed by Governor Kristi Noem in July. It reflects a broader national debate on the balance between gun rights and safety measures.
As is typical in discussions of gun control, opinions in South Dakota vary widely, with advocacy groups pushing for tighter regulations citing safety and mental health considerations, while opponents defend rights under the Second Amendment and propose alternative solutions to violence.
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