Do Universal Background Checks Actually Reduce Firearm Deaths?

In recent years, the debate over universal background checks (UBC) has intensified, with proponents arguing it can significantly reduce firearm-related deaths. However, this article questions the efficacy of UBCs and provides evidence to suggest that they may, in fact, increase firearm-related deaths. Let's dive into the details and examine some of the key points.

Theoretical Misconceptions

The concept of universal background checks is often oversimplified as a straightforward solution to gun violence. It presupposes that government officials can predict the future and accurately determine who poses a threat. However, this belief in a crystal ball is fundamentally flawed.

The claim that background checks can predict and prevent future crimes is not supported by empirical evidence. Crimes involving firearms, especially those committed by individuals who already possess guns, are difficult, if not impossible, to foresee. Implying that simply buying a firearm through a legal, licensed dealer will prevent crimes is disregarding the vast network of illegal firearms in circulation. Knowledge and experience in the illegal gun trade make it much easier for those who should not have guns to obtain them.

Legitimacy and Ineffectiveness

When examining the practical application of UBCs, several critical issues arise:

Protecting Dealers Not Individuals

For licensed dealers, the background check serves as a legal safeguard. It ensures that the dealer is not transferring a firearm to a prohibited individual. However, it fails to protect the broader public. The check is designed primarily to protect the dealer's compliance with the law, rather than addressing the real security concerns.

Limited Impact on Handling of Legal Firearms

For individuals seeking to legally purchase firearms, the background check process is often seen as a “necessary evil.” It does little to prevent the diversion of firearms to prohibited individuals. In fact, the unmarked network of gun dealers and the black market often bypass these checks entirely.

No Impact on Illegal Firearms

The illegal market for firearms is far more resilient than the regulatory measures put in place. Those involved in the illegal trade understand how to circumvent these checks. Simple steps like 'checking if you are a cop' are often enough to avoid legal scrutiny.

Empirical Evidence

To illustrate this further, let's consider the case of Pennsylvania. Since 1931, Pennsylvania has had universal background checks for handguns. Despite this, the majority of violent crimes committed with firearms in Philadelphia, a city with a high rate of gun-related deaths, involve illegal handguns. This suggests that UBCs do not meaningfully impact the overall gun violence rate.

The Case of Philadelphia

Philadelphia, which has had universal background checks for handguns since 1998 (and handguns specifically in 1993), remains a significant hub of gun-related violence. Despite being one of the earliest states to implement UBCs, the effectiveness is questionable. Legal firearms are often used by those who already possess guns.

Carnage Caused by Illegally Obtained Handguns

Philly's primary weapon of choice for violent crimes is the handgun, which is primarily acquired illegally. Even though strict background checks are in place, it does not stop the illegal transfer and use of these firearms. Allowing the legal trade to operate without robust checks means that the real problem—illegal guns—remains unaddressed.

In Conclusion: The implementation of universal background checks, as currently envisioned, is not a panacea for reducing firearm deaths. The focus on legal dealers and licensed purchases diverts attention from the real problem of illegal firearms. Instead of relying on UBCs, policymakers should consider more comprehensive measures to address illegal firearms and the networks that supply them.