It's always a dangerous proposition when I enter the contentious area of gun control laws.
But today I'm struck by two things:
One is on today's editorial page, urging Pennsylvania to join New Jersey in prohibiting the purchase of online kits that are being used to make assault weapons.
But my mind continues to be on New Zealand, and what has transpired there since a white nationalist blinded by hate walked into two mosques and opened fire, killing 50.
On Wednesday's editorial page, I talked about the different approach to this heinous act that was taken by New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. Not only did she waste little time in proclaiming this a hate crime and denouncing the white supremacy movement, she also vowed the nation's gun laws would change.
It didn't take long.
Today Arderen announced a ban on "military-Style" semi-automatic firearms and high-capacity magazines like those used in the shootings.
Ardern indicated the ban on sales of such weapons would go into effect immediately and would be followed by a complete ban on the weapons.
The ban will not include semi-automatic .22-caliber or smaller guns that hold up to 10 rounds or semi-automatic shotguns and pump action shotguns. Those weapons are commonly used in New Zealand by farmers and hunters.
Will the ban work? Will it actually keep guns out of the hands of those intent on mayhem?
I don't know.
But I do know it seems more effective than "thoughts and prayers."
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