Locals lukewarm to Obama gun plan

Many attending the popular event said the president’s proposals, which include requiring background checks for all gun sales, reinstating the assault weapons ban and limiting the size of ammunition magazines, would make little difference.

“The gun laws that they have on the books aren’t enforced, don’t do any good. Oh, let’s feel good and make some more laws,” said Durham resident Al Galbraith, who is a member of Grass Roots North Carolina, a volunteer organization devoted to preserving gun rights.

In North Carolina, unlicensed dealers can sell rifles and shotguns without background checks at gun shows. The so-called “gun show loophole” could close under changes being considered by the Obama administration.

“I guess I don’t have an immediate adverse reaction to it, other than it’s one more rule for somebody to try to break,” said gun owner Steve Shriver. “It’s like having licensed dealers for alcohol. How successful has that been? “

Jabari Richards of Spring Hope said universal background checks could help ensure guns were in responsible hands.