FEN: Will the new gun control legislation actually keep guns out of the hands of kids?

Irving: Anything that will restrict the use or availability of guns is helpful. Let's make it as difficult as we can for kids to get their hands on guns, but remember that the real issue here is why kids want to use guns in the first place.

Where Do You Stand? Do you agree with James Irving? Share your opinions in our gun control discussion.

FEN: Is government regulation of guns the answer?

Irving: We cannot use gun legislation to avoid this epidemic of youth violence in the country. We can't simply say, "Let's pass a gun law, and everything will be all right." That's just not going to happen.

But by tackling the issue of gun legislation, we've also begun to look more closely at the causes of youth violence.

FEN: What should the government's role in preventing youth violence be?

Irving: Our government's role should be to continue to support and keep the focus on the issue. It should be a catalyst to get discussion going. That discussion should filter down to local towns, schools, and families. Legislation is not the answer, but it is a positive step.