Gun Control
The issue of gun control has long been a polarizing one in American politics. Gun violence has been a long standing issue in Philadelphia. In 2022, Philadelphia averaged more than one person killed per day by gun violence, totalling 514 in the entire year and the city has continued to see a steady increase in homicides since 2016. Philadelphia consistently ranks among the top ten in the United States for the highest number of homicides by firearm, and this is a major issue. Philadelphia must act now to address gun violence before the issue worsens and inflicts more harm on the city and its people.
In recent years, however, the city has taken steps to address this problem by implementing measures aimed at reducing the availability of guns and addressing the root causes of gun violence. Pennsylvania has higher rates of gun death and fewer gun control laws compared to neighboring states, New York and New Jersey. While those states have implemented universal background checks and bans on certain semi-automatic weapons and high-capacity magazines, Pennsylvania only requires background checks for handgun purchases and does not require firearm owners to have a license. Additionally, Pennsylvania does not allow for the temporary removal of firearms from those who pose a risk to themselves or others. The state also has no law prohibiting the possession of firearms by individuals with three or more DUI convictions. Furthermore, Pennsylvania law prohibits law enforcement agencies from having firearm registries, and it does not prohibit assault weapons. This lax gun control has contributed to guns being trafficked from Pennsylvania to other states.
Take Action
What to do?
In case you or someone you are aware of is in danger of being involved in or impacted by gun violence, please dial 2-1-1 and press option 3 to reach the City's 24-hour Gun Violence Prevention hotline.
Philly Resources
Philly Organizations
Written by Yana Sokivka