I agree there is a serious problem in dealing with mental health issues associated with restraining orders and firearms. I don't think the solution is using statements like Second Amendment purists and NRA zealots.

Degrading those defending rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and its amendments is counterproductive. Gaining cooperation by writing sensible gun laws into Connecticut law would have accomplished much more.

The State Child Advocates Office alluded to part of the problem in its report on Newtown, Connecticut. In synopsis, it stated that Newtown's school administration, school board and Adam Lanza's mother failed Lanza by ignoring the system of checks and balances that were available under existing law. The General Assembly's Judiciary Committee and the Office of Policy and Management for Criminal Justice have failed to deal with mental health issues and restraining orders.

A nation based on the rule of law should have its laws written and debated in the light of day, not by cowards who pass laws in the night. How do you expect to gain the trust and cooperation of honest citizens with assaults on the very foundation of our country?

James Miller

Salem