Austrian Government Proposes Stricter Gun Control Laws After School Shooting Tragedy

A devastating school shooting in Graz, Austria, which resulted in the deaths of nine students and a teacher, has compelled the Austrian government to propose a series of stringent gun control measures. Announced by Chancellor Christian Stocker, these proposals aim to raise the minimum age for firearm ownership, enhance psychological evaluations, and implement a mandatory waiting period for first-time gun buyers. Following the tragic incident, which saw the attacker, a troubled 21-year-old former student, take his own life, the government is emphasizing the need for reform to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The legislation includes raising the minimum age for purchasing certain firearms, such as handguns, from 21 to 25 years. It also aims to bolster psychological testing requirements, with a focus on ensuring thorough sharing of psychological evaluation results among relevant government agencies. Chancellor Stocker expressed deep sorrow over the loss incurred, stating, "Nothing we do...will bring back the 10 people we lost. But I can promise you one thing: We will learn from this tragedy."

The shooter, who had previously shown signs of antisocial behavior, legally acquired a Glock pistol and a shotgun, despite having failed a psychological assessment necessary for military service. The government hopes that these new regulations will create a safer environment for all citizens and prevent such heartbreaking incidents in the future.