Session 3 – ​June 9, 2018

IACT’s Your Choice, Your Voice series of informative seminars continued in June, as we delved into the controversial and difficult topic of gun policy and control. In the wake of recent mass shootings, many people are demanding stronger gun control laws while others advocate for second amendment rights. The following panel members shed light on all aspects of critical information needed to vote intelligently on this topic.

​Asst. Police Chief Ely Reyes, Austin Police Department, provided a baseline of information on current gun laws, gun nomenclature and terminology, and firearm capabilities.

Michael Cargill, owner of Central Texas Gun Works, and certified firearm trainer, as well as Second Amendment advocate, articulated the argument for gun ownership and related rights.

Gyl Switzer, Executive Director of Texas Gun Sense, an organization dedicated to advocating “common sense, evidence-based policies to reduce gun injuries and deaths” discussed her organization’s perspective on gun control, proposed legislation, and current research in the area.

Dr. Scott Steiner, clinical psychologist, addressed the impact of gun violence on victims and touched on mental health issues that lead to mass shootings.