[danf_fl]

Currently (and looks like in the future, also), when one goes in to purchase a firearm, a background check has to be completed each and every time a purchase is made.

How about the government issuing a FOID to everybody? Info for the 4473 can be taken directly from the FOID.

Should a situation arise that you are no longer eligible to purchase a firearm, then the FOID is turned in or confiscated. The only way to get it back is through a special application process. Guidelines for confiscating the FOID will be provided to LEO and health care (mental cases only).

If someone is arrested with a firearm and there is no FOID on the individual, then an automatic 10 years sentence with no parole.

Those who are currently ineligible would not receive an FOID.

[mhannaford]

I don't see this as a bad idea. Personally I'd feel a bit better about a CDL-type licensure for different "categories" of weapons. I really don't see a problem with someone owning a RPG...as long as they are trained and licensed to do so. Its not like they just hand weapons out in the military. They are trained on how to use them first, then practice, then a test. I don't have a problem if they did the same "tiered" system for your government issued FOID.