I am writing to urge you to be on the forefront of putting an end to our country’s gun violence epidemic.
This session, please support the Equal Access to Justice for Victims of Gun Violence Act (H.R. 4399) and the Background Check Completion Act (H.R. 3051, S. 2213). The Equal Access to Justice for Victims of Gun Violence Act (H.R. 4399) would repeal the gun industry’s immunity from being sued. This would enable Americans to hold firearm manufacturers and dealers liable for harm caused by the weapons that they sell.
The Background Check Completion Act (H.R. 3051, S. 2213), meanwhile, would close a loophole that allows gun sales to proceed if a background check isn't completed 72 hours after purchase - even if the gun buyer isn't legally eligible to own a gun. These bills are important steps towards holding gun dealers accountable for illegal sales and enforcing our current background check system.
The Protecting Domestic Violence and Stalking Victims Act (H.R. 2216 / S. 1290) would bar abusive dating partners, individuals under a restraining order, and convicted stalkers from owning a gun.
Additionally, I urge you to expand the Brady Background Check to all gun sales. Experts estimate that 40% of gun sales occur in “no questions asked” transactions, which often take place online or at gun shows (where, in most states, background checks aren't required). This dangerous loophole puts thousands of guns in the hands of dangerous people: domestic abusers, convicted felons, and the mentally unstable. It's time to expand background checks to all gun sales, including those at gun shows and over the Internet.
Thank you for your work to make American families safer. It’s time to put an end to this gun violence epidemic.
|