How many people need to be shot by how many gunmen with semi-automatic and automatic weapons before there is, dare we say, supply chain accountability? After today’s mass-shooting in Las Vegas, where the casualty count as of this writing is still rising, there will be talk of mental health care, better venue security, good guys with guns vs. bad guys with guns, and even background checks and gun licenses. It will inevitably devolve into a 2nd Amendment debate rather than looking at how every citizen’s rights can be honored, including certain unalienable rights including life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, something just deprived of hundreds of individuals in Nevada by one man.
The argument that a well regulated militia requires high-powered repeating weaponry is specious. The 2nd Amendment does not specify the nature of the arms to be kept. Where should the line be drawn? RPGs? Bombs? Why is the US military venerated without reserve when we are arguing about who sits and stands for the National Anthem but not trustworthy enough to defend the populace such that individuals and groups need to arm themselves similarly?
As with so many societal and environmental issues, government and regulation is one avenue of address. Commerce is another. These weapons are made by for-profit corporations, public and private. It is possible to accept that the manufacture of these weapons is legitimate and necessary for law enforcement and the military and not absolve these companies of responsibility for inappropriate distribution and use. I cannot sell a mutual fund without a background check, a license, extensive documentation and disclosure, and an examination of suitability for the purchaser. Much of the burden for this falls to the manufacturers (the fund sponsors) and the rest on the sales organizations (broker/dealers). The worst that can happen is the investment goes to zero. The client and the public still walk away, frustrated yes, but very alive.
Various stakeholders must increase pressure on these weapons manufacturers to restrict and control distribution. Just because something is legal does not mean it must be done. Self-regulate. Make a decision as a company that your product is suitable only for use by trained professionals in military and law enforcement scenarios. Control your distribution channels. Do not sell the weapons and do not sell the ammunition outside of these professionals. Terminate distribution agreements with any merchant that violates company rules. Do it because you care about your company, your employees, your communities and your customers.