Yes, I own firearms. I used to shoot competitively, in my youth. I've always supported the right of American citizens to own firearms and still do. However, being a responsible gun owner, I feel obligated to support laws that make it harder for criminals and mentally ill people to get their hands on them. I also recognize that some places - some states and cities - have been reactionary in their approach, and always thinking that they have gun laws, but crime is still happening, they've instituted stricter and stricter laws that really only affect the law abiding. That's why I support a nationalized gun control policy.
Here in New Jersey, our laws (as written) require persons to submit to a background check (including being finger printed) to get a Firearms ID Card, with which they can purchase long guns and ammunition so long as they carry it. In addition, to purchase a handgun, an purchase permit is required. Within one calendar year of your most recent background check, the issuing authority (your local police chief or State Police Barracks Commander) may issue handgun purchase permits without requiring another check at his discretion. The law requires the process to be completed within 30 days of the permit request being submitted. If you are convicted of a crime, or are diagnosed by a licensed therapist as being a danger to yourself or others, your Firearms ID Card may be suspended or revoked, following a hearing.
I believe that this is a good model on which to base a national standard. In my proposed solution, this nationalized standard would replace ALL gun regulations in all 50 states, including those who have the overly restrictive statutes at this time, and would prohibit states and municipalities from passing further restrictions other than that which would apply in state or municipal buildings.
I think you must have mentioned that before and probably been hit with this question... sorry if I missed it. There are quite a few examples, across the globe, of governments doing exactly what you suggest. Then, a few years later, that 'natonal gun control policy', turns into, "Yay! We have a list of gun owners... now we hunt them down and confiscate!"
Do you believe that couldn't or wouldn't happen here? And if so, why not?
"'Cause dis is 'Merica!" probably wouldn't be a satisfactory answer to me, at least. :-)