Rep. Chu Welcomes Executive Actions to Reduce Gun Violence

After meeting with Attorney General Loretta Lynch on Monday, President Obama announced new executive actions to respond to the country’s gun violence incidents. The actions will increase background checks, reporting, state and federal cooperation, and mental health resources. Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27) released the following statement:

“After the tragic shooting in San Bernardino – as with dozens and dozens of mass shootings that have come before – we cried out for action. Smart proposals like more background checks can reduce the likelihood of a future mass shooting and limits on magazines and assault weapons can save lives. Yet despite numerous opportunities, Republicans in Congress have refused to act. That inaction is dangerous and irresponsible. We must tighten our gun laws to keep the most dangerous weapons out of the wrong hands. The alternative is a country where mass shootings remain a fact of life, and I refuse to accept that.

“The President’s announced actions are an important and appropriate step. A majority of Americans and gun owners support background checks to keep guns out of the wrong hands. And those background checks should apply for all gun purchases. The danger of a gun in the wrong hands is not mitigated because the gun was bought online or outside. These orders will also increase our capacity to process background checks, which will improve the system and help close gaps. Preventing gun deaths requires a comprehensive effort, which is why I’m encouraged by the increased funding for mental health care and the improved reporting rules. But these are still only a step. Congressional action is essential if we are to live up to our commitment to guarantee the safety of all our constituents.”

The President’s announced executive actions include:

• Toughening background checks nationwide: The President’s executive actions provide new guidance on existing federal laws, clarifying that any individual in the business of selling firearms must obtain a license through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and therefore conduct background checks on prospective gun purchasers. These actions also include new measures and resources to make the background check system more efficient and effective.

• Protecting communities with bolstered enforcement: The executive actions take new steps to promote smart and effective enforcement of our gun laws – including a proposed increase in funding for more ATF agents, greater resources for tracking illegal online firearms trafficking and strengthened domestic violence outreach efforts.

• Improving mental health services: The President is proposing increased investment to expand access to mental health care. Further, the executive actions remove barriers that prevent the reporting of relevant mental health information to the background check system.

• Driving new research into gun safety: The executive actions direct the Departments of Defense, Justice and Homeland Security to conduct or sponsor research into new technology to make firearms safer.

• More information can be found on the White House website.