LeadStory
CBS America

What research shows about banning assault weapons in the past

CBS America · Just In
CBS America
CBS America
Just In

For a decade, there was a ban on so-called assault weapons and high-capacity ammunition clips used in the shooting at the Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. A study published last fall looked at the ban's effectiveness. Lori Ann Post, a co-author of the report, joins to discuss the research.

Breakdown
  • A federal assault weapons ban was in effect in the U.S. from 1994 to 2004. 46s
  • A study found a significant reduction in both the number and lethality of mass shootings during the ban. 50s
  • The research used a natural experiment approach to compare mass shooting data before, during, and after the ban. 1m 14s
  • Limiting access to assault weapons was found to make it harder for potential mass shooters to carry out attacks. 2m 32s
  • The study also explored the psychological appeal of assault weapons to mass shooters. 3m 20s
PoliticsCrime