Political Rewind: How can Georgia and the nation better protect children from gun violence?

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Today's panel takes a look at solutions to gun safety. Credit:FILE

The panel:

Kevin Riley, editor at large, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, @ajceditor

Dr. Mark Rosenberg, former Centers for Disease Control and Prevention employee, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control 

Maureen Downey, education columnist, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, @AJCGetSchooled 

Rep. Michelle Au, (D) Johns Creek, @AuforGA

The breakdown:

1. Guns are the leading cause of death for U.S. children and teens.

• The CDC reports gun-related deaths have surpassed deaths related to car accidents.
• Firearms accounted for nearly 19% of childhood deaths (ages 1-18) in 2021.

2. Where Georgia laws stand when it comes to gun laws.

• In 2022, Georgia lawmakers passed permitless carry. It allows people to carry a gun without a license. 
• Rep. Michelle Au, says she tried to pass a safe storage bill last session. 
  • But she is hopeful to try to get the bill passed next we are the first year of the biennial session. 

3. How can data drive solutions to gun control?

• In April, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signs into law a bill aimed at making public schools safer.
  • The measure requires Georgia schools to hold annual drills on responding to campus shooters.

Friday on Political Rewind: Bill Nigut talks to thought leader Soumaya Khalifa.