Conversation sparked over gun control measures

Gun control is a complex issue, but the conversation is one that most agree needs to be had.

Wednesday, President Obama announced his push to curb an epidemic of violence with new gun control measures.

Strengthen the background check system and reinstate bans on some assault weapons.  That’s the jist of what President Obama spoke on as he addressed the country, once again, following the Newtown school massacre.

Changes could be seen in just weeks as the president pushes for quick action to prevent future tragedies.    

We’ve been talking to people all week, asking what they think should be done to the nation's gun policies.  The views have been mixed.

“The instrument is not the problem. The problem is our mental health system,” James Colby said. “None of the latest shooters would have been caught by a stronger background check.”

Diane Tipping, says, “Definitely no assault weapons, none.”

The president did say mental health services and popular culture are all part of the effort to keep the country safe.

He’s assigned a task force to the issue, giving it until January to come up with recommendations.

Gun sales on the Western Slope have spiked in recent days, some dealers saying people are worried certain weapons won't be available if new rules are passed.