The Columbian supported Initiative 1491, stating “those living in a home with somebody who demonstrates mental illness should have tools at their disposal to enhance safety and avoid tragedy” (“In Our View: ‘Yes’ on Initiative 1491,” Oct. 5). Before voting, consider this:
“No person shall be deprived of life, liberty or property without due process.” This is the Fifth Amendment, ratified by the Due Process clause in the 14th Amendment to describe a legal obligation of all states.
This initiative would allow anyone who harbors ill will against another to have their guns removed without a professional mental health evaluation, and takes away their Second Amendment rights to self-protection.
This is a slippery slope and puts the cart before the horse. If a person is considered dangerous, they should be processed through the proper legal channels first, not the other way around.
