(Politico)
MICHAEL STRATFORD 02/13/2019 09:11 PM
House Democrats took their first steps as a new majority on Wednesday to tighten federal gun laws, underscoring their commitment to act on a top priority a day before the first anniversary of the deadly mass shooting at a Parkland, Fla., high school.
The Judiciary Committee approved two bills that would expand federal background checks for firearm purchases. The legislation, which now heads to the House floor but stands virtually no chance in the Senate, makes good on Democrats’ promises to move swiftly to combat gun violence since taking control of the chamber this year.
“There is a clear consensus among academics, public health experts and law enforcement personnel that universal background checks would greatly enhance public safety,” said Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.). “Despite the obvious need to take action, however, Congress, for too long has done virtually nothing.”
The measure would require virtually all purchasers of firearms to undergo a background check — including those buying through gun shows, over the Internet or through other private transactions.
Comments