To the editor:

I’m sick and tired of protecting the constitutional rights of maniacs like the ones we’ve recently seen in Gilroy, California; El Paso, Texas; and Dayton, Ohio. We must take an aggressive stance on addressing gun violence. I realize that some of what I’m proposing is “unconstitutional,” BUT it’s time to offer solutions, not more rhetoric or “thoughts and prayers.” Here is a specific, four-point action plan that will provide a foundation for subsequent actions:

1. Outlaw all weapons of war for domestic users (automatic weapons like AK-47s and the like). Ban high-capacity magazines (no more than six bullets). Require international background checks for ALL gun purchases, including those at gun shows.

2. Have the FBI gather info (names, addresses, etc.) on all individuals who belong to recognized “hate groups” (e.g., KKK, white supremicists, etc.). Cross-check these individuals with gun registration (BATF), revoke any gun licenses and enact a mandatory buyback of their guns.

3. Have the FBI gather the names and addresses of all individuals who have been prescribed behavior-modifying drugs to combat mental illness. Cross-check these names with gun registration info. Revoke licenses; implement mandatory gun buyback program.

4. If Mitch McConnell does not allow for debate and floor votes on this issue, he must be removed from office.

The time to act is NOW. Our country is the laughingstock of the world on this issue. We must actively protect our citizens. We can no longer have the FBI just “react” to these domestic terrorism events; they must “protect” to prevent them from occurring.

Edwin Gualtieri

Saranac Lake