Point, Click and Shoot

August 1, 2018

Contact: Sheri Shannon, [email protected]

Fredericksburg, VA. – Democratic candidate Vangie Williams (VA-01) released the following statement regarding the publication of downloadable blueprints for 3D-printed plastic guns via the Internet:

“I support the right for individuals to bear arms as granted under the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. However, I am also a proponent of responsible gun ownership and proper government oversight.

“The issue of 3D-printed firearms is just an extension of what we already deal with every single day. We currently have loopholes that allow 1 in 5 guns to be sold in “no questions asked” transactions through private and online sales. That’s millions of guns that have been sold without a background check. The ability to download a file, press a button and print a usable firearm in a do-it-yourself workshop just exacerbates the issue.

“3D-printed guns, or “ghost guns” are untraceable with no serial numbers. Although I understand the associated costs to make such weapons may be too expensive for most people, the technology to make such weapons has vastly improved and 3D printing is now commercially widespread. We must start having the tough discussion on how to regulate these items in a world with evolving technological advancements.”

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