Re “Conn. governor seeks to close watch list loophole’’ (Page A2, Dec. 11): I was pleasantly surprised to learn that Connecticut Governor Dannel Malloy is going to use an executive order to ban the selling of guns to those on federal terrorism watch lists. Much like the actions Connecticut took to ban assault weapons and large-capacity magazines after the Sandy Hook shooting, however, it’s a shame that horrific violence is seemingly the only catalyst for attempted reform.

In all practicality, such a ban enacted by a single state cannot make a difference in the country as a whole. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth signing. After all, someone has to lead the way. It speaks volumes about our politicians, as well as the lobbying strength of the National Rifle Association, that a liberal state has to wait for the slaughter of civilians to enact what many feel are common-sense gun laws.

Keith Henshaw

North Andover