Proposed Legislation Calls for Completion of Background Check Before Gun Purchase

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Richland County Representative Beth Bernstein says that if and FBI background check is going to be required to purchase a gun, then it needs to be completed. She feels that if this was put into law it would prevent situations like the Charleston shooting. Representative Bernstein says, “9 people, the Emanuel 9 are not living because Dylan Roof was able to obtain a gun under what we perceive as a loop hole.” A loop hole Representative Bernstein is hoping to fix with the “Background Check Completion Act”. “Right now it the FBI Does not return a background check within 3 days the gun owner can use his discretion in issuing a gun.” Under Bernstein’s bill licensed South Carolina gun dealers would have to wait until a background check is completed before selling a firearm. Bernstein says, “Gun ownership will not be restricted for those law abiding citizens. If you are responsible and want to have a gun then you will be able to get one. But, if you have a criminal background under legislation and law, you wouldn’t be able to obtain one. It’s really aimed at those with a criminal background.” According to Bernstein, this bill is part of a larger movement, as it will mirror Congressman Jim Clyburn’s Bill in the US House. She says that passing this legislation is essential to preventing future tragedy. “I hate that this wasn’t something that was already law months ago or years ago but we’re aware of this loop hole now and we’d like to close it,” says Rep. Bernstein. Bernstein plans to pre file the bill in December and stresses that this is not a form of gun control, however there could still be debate. ABC Columbia has reached out to other lawmakers for their opinion on the legislation but have not heard back.