Obama Unveils New Gun Control Measures

"We can find ways to reduce gun violence consistent with the Second Amendment," the US President says.

                      
                         The President announced the new initiatives at the White House

President Barack Obama has announced a series executive actions aimed at tightening US gun laws.

Flanked by family members of people killed by gun violence, Mr Obama said constant excuses for inaction on guns "no longer suffice".

The President announced four initiatives on Tuesday that he said will help keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people.

Among them are requirements for more gun sellers to obtain licenses and more gun buyers to undergo background checks.

"We've created a system in which dangerous people are allowed to play by a different set of rules," Mr Obama said in an address in the White House East Room.

"A violent felon can buy the exact same weapon over the internet with no background check, no questions asked."

Mr Obama's expansion on background checks will require anyone selling a gun, whether at a gun show or over the internet, to conduct checks on potential buyers.

The President also outlined a plan to ask Congress for $500m to expand access to treatment for mental illness across the country.

He also announced expansions on government research into gun safety measures, particularly "smart gun technology".

"If we can make it possible to unlock a phone with a fingerprint, why can't we do it with guns?" he said.