What is the main goal of the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act?

The main goal of the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act is to require background checks before firearm purchases. This legislation, enacted in 1993, aimed to enhance public safety by preventing individuals who are prohibited from owning firearms—such as felons and those with certain mental health issues—from easily obtaining them. By mandating background checks for individuals buying guns from licensed dealers, the law helps to ensure that potential risks are identified prior to the sale, thereby reducing the likelihood of gun violence and enhancing responsible firearm ownership.

The other objectives, such as limiting gun production, raising the minimum age for ownership, or allowing open carry, are not part of the Brady Act’s primary focus. Instead, it concentrates specifically on the processes involved in the transfer of firearms, emphasizing the importance of thorough vetting through background checks.