President announces steps to reduce gun violence

President Barack Obama today announced an executive order aimed at reducing gun violence.

Under the new order, background checks will be required of anyone buying a gun from a store, at gun shows or on the Internet. Those who sell firearms must be licensed and conduct background checks.

He also called for background checks on people trying to buy some of the most dangerous weapons through a trust or corporation.

The President in the fiscal 2017 budget will ask for 200 more Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms agents and investigators to help enforce the gun laws.

He is also authorizing the FBI to hire 230 more examiners and staff members to assist with processing mandatory background checks.

The administration also is proposing a $500 million investment to increase access to mental health care.

The President also called for more research into gun safety technology.

State and local governments also were asked to help keep guns out of the wrong hands and reduce gun violence.