U.S. Sens. Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal have introduced legislation calling on the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to study the dangers posed by what the Connecticut Democrats have called “unfair and deceptive marketing and advertising practices conducted by the gun industry.”
The Responsible Firearms Marketing Act requires the FTC to study the marketing outreach of gun manufacturers, importers and dealers ”“ including those that could be marketing to consumers under the age of 18. The FTC would also be on the lookout to see if these marketing strategies encourage the illegal use of firearms or relate to the sale of semiautomatic assault weapons, and the agency would be tasked with issuing punitive fines and payment of damages to consumers for intentional violation of the rules.
“The gun industry uses irresponsible marketing tactics ”“ even targeting kids with ads for lethal weapons ”“ to sell as many firearms as possible because their sole focus is maximizing profits,” said Murphy. “This legislation takes a step toward holding firearm manufacturers and sellers accountable for their dangerous advertising practices.”
“Deceptive firearms marketing exploits and fuels gun violence””and must be stopped,” said Blumenthal. “Our goal is to hold accountable gun manufacturers who prey on vulnerable consumers to fatten their profits. Turning a blind eye to these dishonest advertisements and promotional campaigns will continue to threaten public safety.”
Companion legislation was introduced in the House by U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL).
Photo by Laurie Shaull / Wikimedia Commons
These two clowns have yet to do anything useful. How about some legislation to address the true problem, mental health and irresponsible parents. Or are they afraid that kind of legislation would disqualify them from owning guns?