We've been publishing the Gun Law Scorecard for 15 years now, and a lot has happened in that time. We've seen many states step up and protect the safety of their residents. We've also seen states pass dangerous gun laws that put families at higher risk of being hurt by gun violence. But one thing has never changed: the fact that gun laws save lives.

Plenty of states are taking action. Thirteen states received an A or A- this year, and 12 of those passed new strong laws this year-a good reminder that there is always room to improve.

Unfortunately, not every state is working to save lives. This year, 24 states received Fs, and many of them-like New Hampshire and South Dakota-are actively making their residents less safe. Of the 15 states with the highest gun death rates, 13 received Fs.

This country's gun violence crisis isn't new, but it is preventable. Our safety comes down to whether or not lawmakers are willing to pursue the policies that save lives. And if they listen to Americans, we'll be on our way to a safer country.