Our Weekly: President Puts Forth Proposal for Gun Law

President Obama on Wednesday formally proposed new gun-control policies and initiated 23 separate executive actions aimed at curbing gun violence. The Obama administration can implement about half of the proposals, but the rest will require congressional approval.

 

Obama called on Congress to swiftly pass legislation to ban assault weapons and high-capacity ammunition magazines for civilian use and to require universal background checks for all gun buyers.

 

Obama’s proposals include mental health and school safety measures, as well as a tough new crackdown on gun trafficking.

 

Obama issued the call for the assault ban as part of a broad response to the Newtown shooting.

 

“Congress should restore the ban on military-style assault weapons and a 10-round limit for magazines,” the president said. Obama was referring to a 10-year ban that expired in 2004, which limited the capacity of magazines and restricted military-style features on semiautomatic rifles. The president’s plan can be read in its entirety here.

 

 

“The tragedy of Sandy Hook Elementary that killed 20 children and six adults has fundamentally changed us and the American people demand action,” said Takano. “I was pleased to see the proposals put forward by the president this afternoon, as they show a strong commitment towards reducing gun violence, while still respecting personal liberties.

 

“By proposing universal background checks, the regulation of military style weapons, increasing funding for mental health services, local law enforcement and school resource officers, the president delivered a multifaceted approach that aims to uphold our fundamental obligation to protect our children. I look forward to the legislation being presented in Congress and hope for an honest debate about ways to curb gun violence. This time is different, and action must be taken swiftly,” said Takano.