Doctors concerned about proposed gun legislation
by Cathy Wurzer, Minnesota Public RadioST. PAUL, Minn. — More public hearings are scheduled today at the state Capitol on a number of bills that would change our state's gun laws.
One of those bills would require that some people get a letter from a doctor or mental health care provider before they could buy a gun.
A law enforcement official could ask for the letter if the applicant had previous contact with police which involved violent behavior, mental illness or chemical dependency.
A gun permit could only be issued if the letter stated, that in the doctor's professional opinion, the person is not a threat to himself or others.
Dr. Dave Thorson is the Board Chair of the Minnesota Medical Association and a family physician based in White Bear Lake. He discussed the proposed legislation with Morning Edition host Cathy Wurzer.
