WASHINGTON Gunfight on Capitol Hill

WASHINGTON Gunfight on Capitol Hill

The idea of a federally mandated seven-day waiting period for the purchase of handguns has cleared a major hurdle, setting the stage for the legislative equivalent of the gunfight at the O.K. Corral.

Advocates of gun control strongly back the so-called Brady bill, which allows for checks on the buyer's criminal and emotional history. The measure is named for former White House press secretary James S. Brady, who was disabled by a handgun fired at President Reagan in 1981. The National Rifle Association claims the law would deprive citizens of their right to bear arms.

Though a similar bill was defeated...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!