Southern Supermarkets Now Offering Ammunition via Vending Machines: A New Trend Emerges

Money | July 11, 2024, 6:23 a.m.

In some southern states, supermarkets are now offering gun ammunition for sale in AI-powered vending machines. While the company behind this innovation claims it is a safer option than traditional methods, experts raise concerns about increasing the availability of ammo in a country already plagued by gun violence. American Rounds LLC has placed these vending machines in supermarkets across Alabama, Oklahoma, and Texas, with plans to expand to Colorado and beyond. The machines use facial recognition technology to verify the customer's age and ID before allowing a purchase. While the company touts the safety and convenience of these machines, gun violence prevention researchers and advocates warn of the risks involved. They fear that easier access to ammunition could lead to increased rates of injuries and deaths associated with firearms. Despite the positive feedback received by the company, experts caution against relying solely on technology to promote responsible gun ownership. They emphasize the importance of implementing comprehensive background checks and safety measures to prevent misuse of ammunition.