I am a licensed firearm owner in Canada, and I have witnessed the impact of firearms, including air rifles and pellet guns, being used irresponsibly. It is alarming how easy it is for anyone, including minors, to obtain these weapons, which are often considered 'safe.' However, their misuse tells a different story. These supposedly harmless firearms are frequently used in assaults and robberies, causing injuries and fostering fear in our communities.

In Canada, while air rifles, pellet guns, and BB guns may seem benign given their projectile speed of under 495 ft/sec, their potential for harm should not be underestimated. Many people are unaware that these weapons can be as dangerous as a regular rifle or shotgun when used improperly. Holding them to a lighter standard poses a risk to public safety.

This is why I believe that these air weapons should be subject to the same regulatory requirements as conventional firearms. Just as a rifle or shotgun requires a Possession & Acquisition License (PAL) to ensure they are in the hands of responsible owners, air rifles and similar firearms should also require a PAL. By implementing this change, we can ensure that these weapons are used safely and responsibly, reducing their prevalence in illegal activities and their appeal among youth who might access them too easily.

Enacting stricter licensing requirements for air rifles and pellet guns would not only reduce their misuse but also uphold the integrity of responsible gun ownership in Canada. It is time for the government to act in the interest of public safety and align the legal requirements for these weapons with those of other firearms.

Join me in calling on Canadian lawmakers to amend the regulation for air rifles and similar firearms. Together, let's advocate for stricter licensing to protect our communities and preserve the reputation of law-abiding firearms owners. Please sign this petition to support making PAL a requirement for all air rifles and pellet guns in Canada.