Controversy Over Gun Control Laws

Assemblyman Mike Roos (D-Los Angeles) says that he has heard “precious little” from those who would support him in stopping the spread of weapons of war (“To Ban Assault Weapons, Voices Must Be Heard,” Op-Ed Page, Jan. 30). I am happy to add my voice to his.

I would like to see semiautomatic and automatic assault guns banned from sale to the public, and, if it could be accomplished, those guns already in the public’s hands confiscated (with compensation). There is no legitimate reason why anyone should want or need such a gun. I commend the owner of Grant Boys in Costa Mesa who has added his voice by withdrawing these weapons from sale in his store.

If Roos knows that poll after poll has shown that the vast majority of Californians supports the banning of these guns, why do his fellow legislators not know it? Or if they do know it, why do they not act as elected representatives and do what the vast majority of their constituents want?

PETER COPPEN

Newport Beach