Newtown, CT — Today, a bipartisan group of 10 Democratic and 10 Republican Senators, led by Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT) and John Cornyn (R-TX), released a framework for a bipartisan gun safety package to address the rising rates of gun violence nationwide. The package includes multiple components, such as additional Background Checks for buyers under age 21 and closing the “boyfriend” loophole, funding to support states in implementing Extreme Risk Protection Orders, and additional funding for mental health services and school safety. According to President Biden, this “would be the most significant gun safety legislation to pass Congress in decades.”
In response to this announcement, Mark Barden, co-founder and CEO of the Sandy Hook Promise Action Fund and father of Daniel, who was killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting issued the following statement:
“We commend this bipartisan group of Senators – including our Connecticut Senators Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal along with Senator John Cornyn of Texas – for showing bold leadership in coming together to address the epidemic of gun violence sweeping our nation. The gun safety measures being included in the proposed package uphold Second Amendment rights while also offering proven, commonsense reforms that can be immediately put to work to protect our children and communities. I urge the Senate to move quickly crafting the details of the bill and moving to a vote. And I ask every citizen to demand Congress support this package – and do not stop until it hits President Biden’s desk. Precious lives are depending on our collective action. Text PROTECT to 79775 to be connected directly to your Senator.”
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About the Sandy Hook Promise Action Fund
Sandy Hook Promise Action Fund is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization committed to protecting all children from gun violence in schools, homes, and communities. The SHP Action Fund champions a holistic policy platform that promotes gun safety, youth mental health, and violence prevention education. The organization works at the state and federal levels to pass nonpartisan legislation through inclusive partnerships, diverse grassroots education, and community mobilization. It is part of Sandy Hook Promise, founded and led by several family members whose loved ones were killed in the tragic mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14, 2012.
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Aimee Thunberg | [email protected] | 646-761-5579