The Dec. 14 murder of 20 first graders and six educators at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn. shook the nation and ignited debates about how best to ensure no such tragedy ever occurs again. In Rhode Island, the discourse began immediately as parents clamored for safer schools, residents questioned why military-style weapons are available to the public and health professionals warned that the state’s mental health system was allowing people who need help to become a risk to themselves and others.
The Herald’s spread today investigates some of the conversations that arose in the city, state and on campus in reaction to the Newtown shootings. Rhode Island legislators have expressed interest in banning military-style assault weapons in the state. The state’s congressional delegation — two representatives and two senators — have all pushed for additional national controls on firearm access. Rhode Island’s mental health care system — once the envy of the nation — has fallen into disrepair, and attempts at reformation and restoration are underway. State schools are reviewing their safety protocols with a focus on limiting casualties should a violent intruder threaten student safety. And President Obama’s executive order to increase federal funding for gun research has ignited hope on College Hill about renewed investigation of gun violence in the country.
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