WASHINGTON, DC— Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4) released the following statement regarding the one-year anniversary of the Newtown tragedy on December 14, 2012:

“My heart remains broken for the 20 children and six adults whose lives were tragically cut short one year ago. In the year since Newtown, an additional 30,000 Americans have lost their lives to guns. Though there is no peace for the families of those we have lost, I remain committed to improving our gun laws and our mental health system to reduce the violence and mayhem. We must do everything in our power to prevent the next Newtown, Aurora, or Columbine from happening and to stop the epidemic of violence in some of our cities. While I am frustrated and disappointed by Congress’ failure to lead on this issue, I am no less resolved. I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of the Newtown victims and wish them comfort and peace on this most somber of anniversaries.”