Cory Booker’s Gun Control Plan Calls for National Gun Licensing Program

Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey rolled out a broad plan on Monday that seeks to combat "gun violence" through measures including a gun licensing program and a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. The most notable piece of Mr. Booker’s plan is the proposed gun licensing program, which would enact minimum standards for gun ownership nationwide. Under such a program, a person seeking to buy a gun would need to apply for a license in much the same way one applies for a passport. Mr. Booker’s campaign said the process would involve submitting fingerprints and sitting for an interview, and would require applicants to complete a certified gun safety course. Each applicant would also undergo a federal background check before being issued a gun license, which would be valid for up to five years.