Many states do not require a background check at gun shows. Major loophole... and just maybe, the NICS checks should be more extensive. Until the DMH records are included in every state's submissions to NICS, we are left with mental defectives obtaining access to firearms.
Which states have closed the gun show loophole?
Only six states (California, Colorado, Illinois, New York, Oregon and Rhode Island) require universal background checks on allfirearm sales at gun shows, including sales by unlicensed dealers. Three more states (Connecticut, Maryland and Pennsylvania) require background checks on all handgun sales made at gun shows. Eight other states (Hawaii, Iowa, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, Nebraska and North Carolina) require purchasers to obtain a permit and undergo a background check before buying a handgun. 33 states have taken no action whatsoever to close the gun show loophole.