Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act facts for kids
The Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act, often called the Brady Act or Brady Bill, is a United States law. This law made it required for people to have a background check when buying a gun. It also created a five-day waiting period before someone could pick up a gun they bought.
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What is the Brady Act?
The Brady Act is a very important law in the United States. It helps to make sure that guns are sold responsibly. Before this law, not all gun sales required a check.
How Background Checks Work
A background check is a way to look into a person's past. It checks if they are allowed to own a gun. For example, it checks if someone has a serious criminal record. This helps keep guns out of the hands of people who shouldn't have them.
The Waiting Period
The law also added a five-day waiting period. This means that after you buy a gun, you have to wait five days. You can only pick up the gun after this waiting time. This period gives time for the background check to be completed. It also gives a cooling-off period for the buyer.
How the Law Started
The idea for the Brady Act began in March 1991. Representative Charles E. Schumer first introduced the bill in the House of Representatives. However, it did not get voted on at that time.
Passing the Bill
Rep. Schumer brought the bill back on February 22, 1993. After more discussions, the final version of the bill was passed. This happened on November 11, 1993.
Becoming Law
President Bill Clinton signed the Brady Act into law. This took place on November 30, 1993. The law officially began on February 28, 1994. From that day on, background checks and waiting periods became required.
Who Was James Brady?
The Brady Act is named after James Brady. He was an important person in the government. James Brady was the press secretary for President Ronald Reagan.
The Shooting Incident
On March 30, 1981, there was an attempted attack on President Reagan. James Brady was shot during this event by John Hinckley, Jr.. He was seriously injured.
Brady's Legacy
After the shooting, James Brady became a strong supporter of gun safety laws. He and his wife worked hard to get the Brady Act passed. The law is a tribute to his efforts and his story.
Images for kids
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James Brady in 2006
