In Iowa, a law enacted in 2011 allows individuals who are legally blind to obtain a gun permit, enabling them to carry firearms in public. This controversial policy has resurfaced in discussions surrounding gun control, especially in light of recent tragic events like the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. Many question the logic behind permitting those with severe visual impairments to carry weapons, considering the parallel that if one cannot drive due to vision issues, they may not be fit to handle a firearm.
Delaware County Sheriff Mark Thompson expressed his concerns in a 2013 interview, stating, “If someone sees nothing but a blurry figure in front of them, they probably shouldn’t be firing a gun.” The ongoing debate pivots not on the ownership of firearms by visually impaired individuals but rather on the legality of them carrying these weapons in public spaces. Sheriff Lisa Grant of Dubuque County has publicly opposed the law, indicating that she would not issue permits to those who are legally blind.
Patrick Collins, the superintendent of the Iowa Braille and Sight Saving School, also disapproves of the legislation. However, the law’s wording restricts law enforcement from denying permits based solely on an applicant’s visual ability. “It seems a bit odd, but according to the law, we cannot deny a permit based on that factor alone,” explained Officer Jenna Parker from the Polk County Sheriff’s Department. Notably, federal laws, including the Gun Control Act of 1968, do not exclude blind individuals from firearm ownership.
While most states implement vision tests as a prerequisite for gun permits, Iowa and Wisconsin do not have such requirements. Reports indicate that at least three permits have been issued in Polk County to individuals who are unable to drive and struggled with the application due to their visual impairments.
The National Federation of the Blind has yet to take an official stance on this matter, but it continues to be cited as an example of the laxity of gun laws in America. Compounding the issue, Iowa’s only requirement for firearm training can be completed online, lacking any hands-on or in-person practice, a stark contrast to previous regulations that mandated training at a firing range. It is noteworthy that obtaining a gun permit is less stringent than securing a driver’s license in America.
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In summary, Iowa’s law permitting individuals who are legally blind to carry firearms raises serious questions about public safety and the regulations surrounding gun permits. As discussions around gun control continue, this issue remains a focal point of contention in the broader debate.