Austria to Implement Firearm Regulations Following School Tragedy
Revamped Take: Austria's Response to School Tragedy:
In the wake of the heartbreaking school shooting in Graz, Austria, the country's coalition government has vowed to tighten gun laws to prevent future tragedies.
A gunman, aged 21, claimed the lives of ten people using a shotgun and Glock pistol he legally owned. This horrifying incident has pushed the authorities to reconsider and tighten some firearm rules in Austria.
Compared to other European countries, Austria has a relatively relaxed policy on purchasing firearms. However, this incident has forced a change in tact.
At present, anyone of legal age who hasn't been banned from weapon ownership can purchase a shotgun. Acquiring a Glock demands a gun permit, a psychological test, and a minimum age of 21. The latest measures seek to strengthen these regulations.
Raising the Bar for Gun Ownership
Addressing a press conference, Chancellor Christian Stocker outlined the proposed changes. "We will not return to the status quo and intend to draw the right conclusions from this crime," Stocker said.
The proposed modifications include raising the minimum age to buy a dangerous firearm from 21 to 25. Apart from that, the waiting period between purchase and receipt of a firearm will be increased from three days to four weeks. New gun permits will also expire every eight years.
Emphasizing Mental Health
The government also plans to strengthen psychological tests for gun owners, recognizing mental health as a critical concern. To further prioritize mental health, the government intends to boost the number of school psychologists over the next three years.
"School psychology must no longer be the exception but the rule," Stocker emphasized. The primary goal is to identify potential threats early and make it harder for dangerous individuals to gain access to weapons.
Healing and Reflection in Austria
The attack highlighted a failing in the system, with the assailant having passed a psychological screening test required for military service. However, the armed forces are currently prohibited from sharing such information.
To address this, the government aims to enhance data sharing between the armed forces and firearm regulatory agencies to ensure relevant information is considered during gun permit applications. "Anyone who poses a threat should not be allowed to possess a firearm," said Vice Chancellor Andreas Babler.
An investigation into the shooter's motive is currently underway.
Edited by: Zac Crellin
Sources: [1], [2], [3], [4]
In light of the recent school shooting in Graz, Austria, the government has proposed changes to gun laws as a preventative measure, aiming to tighten regulations and raise the minimum age to purchase dangerous firearms from 21 to 25. Additionally, the government plans to strengthen psychological tests for gun owners, with a focus on addressing mental health concerns and enhancing the number of school psychologists.
