1. United States
2. Minn.
3. Letter

The rising rates of gun suicides in our nation are a grave public health crisis that demands urgent action. A promising solution has emerged in the form of a Voluntary Waiver of Firearm Rights, which empowers individuals to proactively restrict their own ability to purchase firearms during periods of heightened risk. This self-imposed measure can prevent impulsive acts that too often prove fatal. As evidenced by the harrowing story of Donna Nathan, even brief lapses in mental wellness can have catastrophic consequences when firearms are readily accessible. By enabling people to temporarily waive their firearm rights, we afford them a powerful tool for self-preservation during vulnerable moments. This innovative approach strikes a sensible balance, respecting personal liberty while mitigating the potential for tragedy. Three states – Utah, Virginia, and Washington – have already enacted such laws, permitting residents to confidentially add their names to a Do-Not-Sell list. Requests for reinstatement are subject to a reasonable waiting period, allowing time for circumstances to stabilize. Preliminary data suggests a significant portion of the population would utilize this option, transcending partisan divides in the interest of harm reduction. Introducing federal legislation to establish a nationwide Voluntary Waiver of Firearm Rights would represent a compassionate, proactive step towards curbing the staggering toll of gun suicides. By empowering Americans to safeguard themselves, we can save countless lives while upholding principles of personal autonomy. I urge you to champion this measured, common-sense reform as a matter of urgent priority.