1 - I don't really believe in 'licensing'. I do believe in certification, where someone has to pass a basic (note - basic) safety course to ensure they have the knowledge to safely store and use firearms, and I think an initial criminal background check is fine. THere should be no 'license' at all - if you're certified then you're certified till death unless a competant authority such as a judge 'De-certifies' you for cause. Like a violent criminal offense or the like.

Safety training can reduce accidents, and that's why it's valuable. Trying to control CRIMINAL offenses by licensing LAWFUL people is like trying to control obesity problems by regulating spoons.

2 - well i think that's been covered.