"Over 300 million guns are privately owned in the United States," said Taylor, "and in all but a tiny number of instances guns are used safely, properly, and responsibly." He noted that guns are used over 2.5 million times each year for personal protection. "When used by honest, law-abiding citizens, guns prevent many crimes," Taylor remarked.

The plan Taylor unveiled encourages responsible handgun owners in Shelby County to obtain a Concealed Carry Permit for personal protection. "Private funding will pay up to $50 toward the safety training course required to obtain a handgun permit," the councilman stated.

The program is officially known as the Safe Streets and Cities Fund. Shelby County is the pilot community for this program that Gun Owners of America plans on taking nationwide. Here's how it works.

First, complete a handgun safety-training course at any Shelby County gun dealer. Second, apply with the State of Tennessee for a Concealed Carry Permit. Once approved, forward copies of your handgun permit and safety training certificate to Gun Owners of America. That's all you need to do. You'll then receive a "rebate" from GOA for up to $50 to cover the cost of your safety training course.

Taylor said the Safe Streets and Cities program was developed in response to federal "gun buy-back" programs. "These so-called gun buy-back programs are a tremendous waste of taxpayer dollars. They provide a legal method for disposing of guns used in crimes and act as an incentive for thieves to steal guns. I felt something should be done to counter this. That's why Safe Streets and Cities was developed-to make it easier for honest, law-abiding citizens to obtain a handgun for personal protection. Our program ensures that responsible gun owners obtain safety training and, of course, they undergo a criminal background check prior to receiving their Concealed Carry Permit," noted Taylor.