Talking Points: The Gun Laws Discussion After A Shooting

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- After each and every mass shooting, there is the inevitable discussion of changes in our gun laws. But with this tragedy and the loss of so many very young lives, it appears the discussion is one that may last beyond the news cycle of a few days, or even a week.

Hours after the massacre, in an emotional speech to the nation President Obama said it is now time take meaningful action to prevent more tragedies like this regardless of politics. But few issues are more politically charged than gun control.

This time, with the slaughter of so many who were so very young, gun control advocates believe this is the moment to act. Nationally, among the most outspoken members of Congress already calling out for immediate action is Minneapolis Congressman Keith Ellison.

He appeared on WCCO Sunday Morning.

"You have to have a moment that will grab the attention of the nation and motivate us all to greater action and more safety," Rep. Ellison said. "The bottom line -- we are not trying to take people's guns away, we are trying to protect kids and if you can look at the faces of those 20 children who were shot down and murdered and not feel something than you are stone."

But critics say a push for tougher gun laws is simply exploiting this horrific tragedy. They also point out the semi-automatic handguns and assault rifle Adam Lanza brought to the school were legally purchased by his mother, an avid gun collector.

And any push for national regulation will go against an overwhelming trend for looser restrictions at the state level. For example the day before the massacre, lawmakers in Michigan voted to allow concealed handguns to be carried in local schools.

That Michigan law still has to be signed by the state's governor.

You can watch WCCO Sunday morning with Esme Murphy and Matt Brickman every Sunday at 6 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.