Stricter Gun LawsPresident Barack Obama laid out his comprehensive package for controlling gun violence in the United States. This sets the stage for the most sweeping political battle regarding gun control. The president said that his plan will not only help prevent mass shootings, it would also decrease the epidemic of gun violence in the nation.

The president laid out his plan before an audience that included family members of those killed in the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School as well as children who wrote to President Obama after the shootings. The president gave out a series of steps both administrative and political he says can curb access to guns and specific types of ammunition, make mental care more accessible, and increase federal funds for law enforcement and research.

President Obama was accompanied by Vice President Joe Biden on stage. The president acknowledged the difficulties of pursuing stricter legislations on gun control. He added that he would use whatever power his position holds to achieve his agenda.

Among the initiatives in President Obama’s plan include universal background checks for gun sales; bringing back the ban on assault weapons; capping ammunition magazines to a 10 round limit; banning armor piercing ammunition; providing schools with counselors and resource officers; placing more police officers on the streets; implementing serious punishments for gun trafficking; and making sure that health insurance plans cover mental health benefits.

President Obama outlined executive actions he can take without the need of a congressional approval. These include measures aimed at making federal background check data available, effective and accessible; staying ahead with regards to the newest gun safety measures; tracing seized guns and ensuring they don’t go back to dangerous gun owners; ensuring schools are prepared for possible shooter situations; prosecuting gun crimes; and improving mental health discourse and resources.