Pa Senate Democrats Call on GOP for Vote on Gun Safety Measures


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HARRISBURG, Pa. (ErieNewsNow) – Today, Senate Democrats called on their Republican colleagues to consider two gun safety measures. In May, House Democrats took advantage of razor-thin majority to pass what they call “commonsense gun measures” and send them to the Senate.

The first bill, House Bill 1018, is a red flag bill that would allow a judge to order the seizure of firearms if asked by family members or law enforcement. The second, HB 714 would expand background checks for those looking to purchase a firearm. It would also end an exception for private sales of shotguns, sporting rifles and semi-automatic rifles, commonly known as the “gun show” loophole. 





“Common sense gun laws in Pennsylvania are one step away from being enacted. All we need is a vote by the Senate,” said Sen. Vincent Hughes (D-Montgomery/Philadelphia). 

Hughes, the Democratic chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, was among those at today’s press event. He says the bills have support from the majority of Pennsylvanians and that it’s time to send them to Governor Josh Shapiro’s desk. 

“These are bills that have overwhelming public support, even in Republican districts,” said Hughes. “We can have common sense gun laws in Pennsylvania, and I can assure you the people of Pennsylvania are waiting for this. People around the country are waiting for this because Pennsylvania is such a huge trafficker of illegal firearms. Let’s get this done,” Hughes added.





















 

Hughes says there have been serious investments recently to address gun violence and help law enforcement. He says the legislation, in addition to recent investments, will go a long way. 

“The last 12 to 16 months, we’ve moved over $300 million of new money into the gun violence crisis- well over $100 million to neighborhood-based violence prevention organizations, millions to law enforcement to give them the equipment that they need to help deal with gun violence, almost $50 million or so to provide local prosecutors extra help,” said Hughes. “This is a historic financial investment, but we need the laws to change as well,” Hughes added. 

Republicans say the commonwealth already has comprehensive gun laws. Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R-Armstrong/Indiana/Jefferson/Westmoreland) says they must be enforced. Pittman shared the following statement with Erie News Now: 









“Measures to increase safety and security are of chief importance to the Senate Republican Caucus. We remain steadfast in our ongoing support of law enforcement, leadership of school safety initiatives, and examination of ways to provide greater mental and behavioral health support to help protect our communities. Pennsylvania currently has robust laws in place pertaining to guns, which must be enforced in every corner of our commonwealth.” 

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