Recently, the Supreme Court struck down the federal ban on bump stocks, devices that modify semiautomatic rifles to fire at rates comparable to machine guns. This decision has significant implications for public safety, particularly concerning the potential for more deadly mass shootings.

Understanding the Decision

The Supreme Court's ruling in Garland v. Cargill centered on whether bump stocks fall under the federal definition of machine guns. The Trump administration had reinterpreted existing law to include bump stocks as machine guns, leading to their ban in 2018. However, this decision was challenged, leading to a split in the courts. Ultimately, the Supreme Court ruled that bump stocks do not meet the statutory definition of a machine gun because they require manual input to operate continuously, thus overturning the ban (SCOTUSblog) (SCOTUSblog) (The Texas Tribune).

The Dangers of Bump Stocks

Rate of Fire

Bump stocks allow semiautomatic rifles to mimic the rate of fire of machine guns, capable of firing between 400 to 800 rounds per minute. This rate of fire increases the potential for mass casualties in a short period, overwhelming first responders and exacerbating the lethality of an attack.

Accuracy and Control

While bump stocks do not provide the same level of control as a traditional machine gun, the volume of fire they enable can compensate for this lack of precision. The sheer number of bullets fired can result in widespread injuries and fatalities, particularly in crowded settings.

Accessibility and Ease of Use

Bump stocks are relatively inexpensive and easy to install on many semiautomatic rifles, making it feasible for individuals to significantly enhance the lethality of their firearms with minimal technical expertise. This accessibility increases the risk of these devices being used in criminal activities.

Psychological Impact

The use of bump stocks in mass shootings has a profound psychological impact on survivors, witnesses, and the broader community. The rapid, continuous gunfire can create chaos, panic, and long-lasting trauma, further amplifying the devastation of such attacks.

Recent Example: The 2017 Las Vegas Mass Shooting

On October 1, 2017, Stephen Paddock opened fire from the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas onto a crowd attending the Route 91 Harvest music festival. Using multiple firearms equipped with bump stocks, Paddock fired over 1,000 rounds in ten minutes, resulting in 60 deaths and over 850 injuries. This tragic event is considered the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history and highlighted the devastating impact that bump stocks can have when used in such attacks (SCOTUSblog) (The Texas Tribune).

Continued Threats to Public Safety

The Supreme Court's decision to lift the bump stock ban potentially increases the risk of similar high-casualty events. The continued lobbying efforts of the NRA and gun manufacturers, supported by right-wing politicians, exacerbate this threat. These groups advocate for fewer restrictions on firearms, often framing their arguments around Second Amendment rights and personal freedoms.

NRA and Gun Manufacturers' Influence

The National Rifle Association (NRA) and gun manufacturers wield significant influence over firearm legislation in the United States. Their lobbying efforts have historically aimed to loosen gun control measures and oppose new restrictions. Financial contributions to political campaigns and extensive lobbying activities help these groups maintain their influence over policymakers.

Support from Right-Wing Politicians

Right-wing politicians often support the NRA and gun manufacturers, advocating for minimal restrictions on firearms. This support can lead to the passage of laws that prioritize gun rights over public safety, making it easier for individuals to obtain and modify firearms, including the use of bump stocks.

The Role of Women in Advocating for Gun Control

Women have historically been powerful advocates for social change, and their involvement is crucial in the fight against gun violence and the policies that enable it. Here’s how women can organize, mobilize, and vote to counteract these dangerous policies:

Organize

• Form Advocacy Groups: Create or join organizations dedicated to gun control and public safety. Groups like Moms Demand Action and Everytown for Gun Safety provide platforms for collective action.
• Community Outreach: Host events, workshops, and discussions to raise awareness about the dangers of bump stocks and other gun modifications. Engaging local communities helps build a strong, informed base.

Mobilize

• Grassroots Campaigns: Initiate grassroots campaigns to educate the public and lobby for stricter gun control laws. Use social media to amplify your message and reach a broader audience.
• Petitions and Protests: Organize petitions and peaceful protests to demand legislative action against the availability of bump stocks and similar devices.

Vote

• Support Gun-Safety Candidates: Research and support candidates who advocate for gun control. Voting for such candidates can lead to the implementation of laws that prioritize public safety.
• Voter Registration Drives: Conduct voter registration drives to ensure that more people can participate in elections, particularly those from communities affected by gun violence.
• Policy Advocacy: Engage with policymakers to push for the reintroduction and enforcement of bans on bump stocks and other dangerous gun modifications.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court's decision to strike down the bump stock ban poses a significant threat to public safety by potentially enabling more deadly mass shootings. It underscores the urgent need for continued advocacy and legislative action to control gun violence. Women, leveraging their collective power and influence, can play a pivotal role in this movement by organizing, mobilizing, and voting to ensure that public safety is prioritized over the interests of the gun lobby.

By standing together and taking action, women can help protect their communities from the devastating effects of gun violence and uphold the values of safety and justice for all.

Supreme Court Justices Supporting the Decision

The Supreme Court's decision to strike down the bump stock ban was a 6-3 ruling. The justices who supported the decision included:

• Chief Justice John Roberts
• Justice Clarence Thomas
• Justice Samuel Alito
• Justice Neil Gorsuch
• Justice Brett Kavanaugh
• Justice Amy Coney Barrett

These justices argued that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) overstepped its authority by enacting the ban on bump stocks without explicit congressional authorization (SCOTUSblog) (Medill on the Hill) (Georgia Public Broadcasting).

For further information on how this ruling impacts public safety and how you can get involved in advocating for gun control, visit the websites of advocacy groups like Moms Demand Action and Everytown for Gun Safety.