The Columbian recommends a “yes” vote on Initiative 1491:

Any proposal involving gun rights provokes strong feelings on both sides. Rights that are established in the U.S. Constitution are essential — but they are not inviolate. You cannot yell “fire” in a crowded theater and expect to be protected by the First Amendment.

All too often, debate about gun rights ignores the most pressing issue. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about two-thirds of gun deaths in the United States are suicides. Mass shootings or street violence garner the bulk of the attention, but most of the carnage is perpetrated by despondent people upon themselves.

That reflects the need for Initiative 1491. Those living in a home with somebody who demonstrates mental illness should have tools at their disposal to enhance safety and avoid tragedy.

Initiative 1491 is not a perfect solution to gun violence; no measure could be. But it is a reasonable approach to reducing an unacceptable epidemic.

Read the full editorial here.