General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: "Gun culture" begins with parents. Any law that doesn't restrict parents won't change gun culture. [View all]branford
(4,462 posts)Trying to argue "well regulated" is essentially whatever the government says it means effectively vitiates the phrase. The "well regulated Militia" language also doesn't limit or expand any part of the right to keep and bear arms. It simply provides a reason why the right needs to be guaranteed, as discussed by the Supreme Court and most scholars.
In any event, Congress (or the states or localities) can pass any gun control legislation they wish. The courts may later strike them down, but it doesn't prevent the legislatures from trying (e.g., Chicago and Washington, D.C.). The fact that most gun control laws are not passed (and most are likely constitutional) is simply because they lack the requisite popular support in the relevant states and districts.