Firearm death rates vary significantly across states, with states in the northeast and the coastal west region having among the lowest rates, while states in the south and mountain west experience disproportionately high rates of firearm deaths. Use the Rand Corp. tool to see how your state compares with the rest of the nation.

Next, we encourage you to use the Rand Corp. tool to explore state-specific firearm policies and their potential impact on mortality rates to visualize how changes in firearm policies could impact your state and the nation. For example, by simulating the adoption of restrictive gun-access and gun-carrying laws, the researchers estimate that firearm deaths could decline by 5 to 10 percent in many states, primarily driven by a reduction in firearm suicides.

While there are many policies to consider, RAND estimates that one key policy change — adopting child-access prevention laws — could have the most substantial impact on reducing the national firearm death rate. Use the tool to see how this one policy change can save lives in your state - then keep exploring to see which policies you'd like to see implemented.

So, how does any of this pertains to the myth we shared last week — that legislation is the only solution for gun violence? At Whitney/Strong, we are dedicated to addressing gun violence holistically. While bipartisan-led legislation is a vital area of focus, an estimated reduction of 5-10% across America is not enough. With more than 40,000 people dying a year, we must consider all evidence-based solutions.

Whitney/Strong will continue to implement a comprehensive strategy for reduction which includes a focus on education through our Save A Life program, research, and bipartisan-led legislation. As we continue our journey to create safer communities with you, please share this tool within your circle and encourage others to join in our efforts through