Graz, Austria — In response to a tragic school shooting that left 10 victims dead, Austria’s coalition government is moving swiftly to implement stricter gun control measures. The incident, which involved a 21-year-old gunman who opened fire at his former high school before taking his own life, has raised significant concerns over the nation’s relatively lenient firearms regulations.
In Austria, the process for obtaining firearms is notably more relaxed compared to many other countries in Europe. Currently, adults can legally purchase shotguns without restrictions, while acquiring handguns like the Glock requires a gun permit, a psychological evaluation, and a minimum age of 21. However, the recent tragedy has prompted officials to reconsider these guidelines.
Chancellor Christian Stocker announced key proposed reforms during a press conference in Vienna, reiterating the government’s commitment to preventing similar tragedies in the future. “We will not return to business as usual; we must act responsibly in response to this violent incident,” Stocker emphasized, highlighting the urgent need for legislative changes.
Among the proposed initiatives is an increase in the minimum age for buying firearms from 21 to 25 years. The waiting period between purchase and delivery is set to expand from three days to four weeks, while newly issued gun permits will now have an expiration period of eight years.
Additionally, the government aims to enhance the psychological evaluations required for potential gun owners. Recognizing the importance of mental health in this context, Stocker announced plans to strengthen the presence of school psychologists over the next three years. “In the future, school psychology must no longer be the exception, but the rule,” he stated, stressing the need for better identification of individuals at risk.
Authorities are also calling for improved data sharing between the military and regulatory bodies responsible for overseeing firearm permits. This comes in light of revelations that the shooter had previously failed a psychological screening for military service. The current regulations prevent military officials from communicating such information to firearm regulatory agencies, raising questions about the effectiveness of existing vetting processes.
Vice Chancellor Andreas Babler reinforced the administration’s commitment to public safety, asserting that those deemed dangerous should not hold firearm ownership privileges. “Anyone who poses a threat should no longer be able to own a weapon,” he said, expressing the urgency of the proposed reforms.
As investigators continue to look into the shooter’s motives, the Austrian government is poised to enact these measures swiftly. The combination of tougher regulations and greater emphasis on mental health support reflects a significant shift in the country’s approach to gun ownership in the wake of this tragic event.