By Andrea Shalal
WASHINGTON (Multibagger) - U.S. President Joe Biden is set to sign an executive order on Thursday to tackle the rising threats posed by 3D printed and converted firearms, as well as enhance active shooter drills in schools, the White House announced.
Biden's order establishes a new federal task force to evaluate the danger posed by machine gun conversion devices that allow handguns to match the firing rate of military machine guns, and 3D-printed firearms that lack serial numbers, making them difficult to trace.
A recent mass shooting in Alabama that claimed four lives reportedly involved a gun conversion device, prompting calls for stricter laws in the state.
The executive order also mandates federal agencies to create and publish guidelines within 110 days for schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S. on how to conduct effective active shooter drills. While most states require schools to perform such drills, some studies have shown them to be ineffective and traumatic for students.
Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris will unveil the order at the White House, marking their first joint event on gun-related issues since Harris was appointed to oversee a gun violence prevention office established a year ago.
The event will be attended by gun violence survivors, activists, and allies of Biden, who has been a vocal advocate for reducing gun violence for over 30 years.
Analysis:
The executive order signed by President Biden is aimed at addressing the growing threat of 3D printed and converted firearms, as well as improving active shooter drills in schools. The order establishes a task force to assess the danger posed by machine gun conversion devices and unserialized 3D-printed firearms. It also directs federal agencies to provide guidance for schools on conducting effective active shooter drills. This initiative is part of Biden and Harris' broader efforts to reduce gun violence since taking office. The move comes amid calls for stricter gun laws from Democrats, while Republicans continue to advocate for protecting gun rights.