Guns shows at War Memorial to end
The horrific events at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland have driven home the need for change both locally and nationally.
Shortly after the shooting occurred, I persuaded the former City Commission to send a resolution to state legislators in favor of meaningful gun reform. Fortunately, we have since seen some progress in Tallahassee.
Gov. Rick Scott signed into law an increase in the minimum age to buy rifles and shotguns, an extension of the three-day waiting period for handgun purchases to include long guns, and a ban on bump stocks that allow guns to mimic automatic fire.
State law still prohibits cities from adopting our own gun regulations, but Fort Lauderdale is taking action where it can. The gun shows at War Memorial Auditorium will cease by year’s end.
I’ve long argued that the shows should be discontinued because of the location in the middle of Holiday Park. We should not allow the sale of firearms near where children play.
Our agreement to host the gun shows expires in November. After that, the City Commission is committed to gear the auditorium more toward park and recreational activities.
We aren’t saying guns cannot be bought in Fort Lauderdale. Many gun stores remain, and the show operators could re-locate.
Our nation has undergone soul-searching in the time since the Parkland shooting. Our youth have been bravely standing up for needed change. While many Americans are passionate about gun ownership, we need to find a commonsense balance as a society.
Sincerely,
Dean