American Notes

Ten years ago, as Ronald Reagan recovered from near fatal gunshot wounds, he declared that he still opposed gun control. Last week the former President announced that he had changed his mind. In a speech at George Washington University, where he was treated after being shot by John W. Hinckley, Reagan called on Congress to enact a law requiring a seven-day waiting period for the purchase of handguns.

The measure has been dubbed the Brady bill after one of its strongest proponents: Reagan's press secretary, James Brady, who was shot in Hinckley's attack and left paralyzed by his wounds. It is designed to give police enough time to determine if gun buyers have a criminal record. Advocates say Reagan's conversion ensures that the bill will be enacted this year, despite stiff opposition from the powerful pro-gun lobby. President Bush quickly indicated that he might sign the bill if Congress is willing to accept his revisions to the criminal code.