Publication Date: January 2010
What does it say?
This study tested three interventions to reduce homicide and gun homicide: 1) the Brady law, 2) lax laws on carrying guns concealed in public, and 3) sentence enhancements for gun crimes. The researcher developed his methodology to address methodological concerns with past gun policy research identified in a review by the National Academy of Sciences in 2005.
Using data from 20 major cities over a 36-year period (1970 to 2005), the study found that the Brady law was associated with reductions in homicide and gun homicide. Lax laws on carrying guns in public were not associated with declines in homicide or gun homicide.
How can I use it?
Use the results of this study to educate policy makers that the Brady law is making a difference in reducing homicide and gun homicide. This study joins others (2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2001, 2/2001) building the evidence base that background checks make a difference in saving lives. We need to extend background checks to cover the estimated 40 percent of gun transfers that don’t currently require a background check.
Citation
La Valle, James M, “Re-Estimating Gun-Policy Effects According to a National Science Academy Report: Were Previous Reports of Failure Pre-Mature?” Journal of Crime and Justice, Volume 33(1), 2010, pp. 71-95
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