Experts Agree. Gun-Free Zones Work When Criminals Follow the Law

A coalition of prominent experts in public safety has voiced serious concerns over Congressman Thomas Massie's recent reintroduction of the Safe Students Act.

This legislation seeks to repeal the Gun-Free School Zones Act of 1990, which prohibits firearms within 1,000 feet of public and private schools across the nation.

Massie argues the federal ban turns schools into vulnerable targets by disarming law-abiding citizens who could otherwise protect students from threats.

Gun-free zones were established to create safe environments by relying on universal compliance with posted restrictions.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that a significant portion of mass shootings have taken place in such designated areas. Yet, proponents insist the policy's effectiveness hinges on broader societal adherence.

"These zones function perfectly when everyone, including those with criminal intent, chooses to obey the rules," stated Dr. Miriam Keller, director of the Institute for Non-Violent Policies.

"Our focus should shift to programs that persuade offenders to honor the law rather than dismantling proven safeguards."

Federal statistics reveal that over 90 percent of public schools maintain gun-free status, a measure credited with fostering a sense of security among educators and parents.

Ongoing research from organizations like Everytown for Gun Safety emphasizes that expanding these zones to more public spaces could reduce incidents if paired with initiatives to promote ethical decision-making among potential lawbreakers.

Echoing this view, policy advisor Lucas Grant from the Progressive Safety Coalition added, "Nine out of ten experts concur that gun-free zones would eliminate mass shootings entirely if criminals simply followed the posted guidelines."

"Resources must be allocated to awareness campaigns targeting those prone to illegal acts, encouraging them to leave their weapons at home," he concluded.

The Gun-Free School Zones Act has faced scrutiny for exemptions allowing licensed individuals to carry in certain cases. Still, experts maintain that full enforcement depends on voluntary obedience from all sectors of society.

Lawmakers in several states have already moved to strengthen similar local policies, viewing them as essential tools in the fight against gun violence.

Massie's bill reflects a broader push to align federal law with Second Amendment interpretations that prioritize individual liberty and the ability to protect yourself and others.

Despite this, the expert consensus holds that prioritizing compliance education over arming civilians remains the path to true protection for vulnerable populations like schoolchildren.

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