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IRON MOUNTAIN -- With new proposals from President Obama Wednesday about gun violence, the debate continues to be a hot-button issue.  But some gun owners say they are concerned with too much government involvement.

Tim Griggs and his son, Drake, enjoy shooting for recreation at the United Sportsman’s Club in Iron Mountain. They say safety is important in the learning process.

“We're out here,” said Tim, “enjoying the guns, learning how to shoot. I have my son out here; he's learning how to shoot."

Tim adds that it’s important to teach younger sportsmen how to shoot properly and safely. His son, Drake, recognizes this as well. 

“I think it's OK to have a gun as long as you're taught the proper way,” said Drake.

One proposal the President has is to reinstate the military-style assault weapons ban, as well as requiring universal background checks.

Dickinson County Sheriff Scott Celello agrees that background checks are important for community safety.

“There are a few things that would be beneficial to us as a community. One would have to do with background checks,“ said Celello. “Another is more in-depth with the mental health issue,” he adds, “because it's not only a gun control issue, it's a mental health issue.”

At Rocconi’s Ace Hardware in Iron Mountain, owner Tracey Rocconi explains their background checking process.

“We require a 4473, which is a form that they have to fill in that we call in to the ATF to make sure that they pass a background check,” explained Rocconi. “We're very careful about who we sell to, but obviously everyone is in the collection mode right now, looking for anything they can find.“

Among other proposals the President presented was a recommendation for stricter prosecution on people who lie on their background checks, as well as offering mental health services at schools.

He is now urging Congress to vote on these proposals.