Gun Violence Prevention

Every citizen in our state understands the personal tragedy of gun violence. In the time since the horrific event in Newtown, we’ve witnessed unspeakable acts of gun violence at schools, concerts, houses of worship, theaters, and nearly every other place where Americans should feel safe. I firmly believe that gun violence prevention measures, consistent with Second Amendment rights, are necessary responses to these tragedies.

In June 2022, Congress passed the historic Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which includes lifesaving provisions to reduce gun violence and keep Americans safe in public spaces. This legislation expands state crisis intervention programs, including Red Flag Laws, boosts funding for community violence intervention programs and mental health services, requires enhanced background checks for individuals under 21, and increases penalties for straw purchases and firearms trafficking. The bill also closes the “boyfriend” loophole, a critical policy that was included in the Lori Jackson Domestic Violence Survivor Protection Act, which I introduced following the tragic death of Oxford resident Lori Jackson.

In the 117th Congress, the House of Representatives passed the Bipartisan Background Checks Act, the Enhanced Background Checks Act, and the Assault Weapons Ban of 2022 with my support. I will continue fighting to enact these critical pieces of legislation, and to keep our communities safe from gun violence.