Guns Rights, Mental Health & Public Safety

I'm a former US Marine, a veteran of OIF. I understand our Constitution and the current economic situation we in Washington continue to endure. I value our freedom to keep and bear arms, as this right is the most potent in protecting all others. However, I have recognized that the root of the greatest threat to our freedom & liberty comes not directly from polilticians, or their backers; the true threat is the growing presence of mentally unstable citizens, who are still able to obtain firearms. An unbalanced individual is far more dangerous to themselves and others than anyone when armed. Since the funding reductions to Western State mental hospital, the number of officer-involved shootings in Seattle and throughout the region has risen. I suspect that there is a direct correlation between the growing number of mentally unbalanced individuals and gun violence. Persons unwilling or unable to remain appropriately medicated are a threat to our public safety. Gun owners are very responsible citizens; a group comprised of veterans and public servants. We don't like the idea of paying more for our weapons, but if it protects our future generation's gun rights, we'll gladly pay extra to support our mentally infirmed.