NEWTOWN, Conn. — Yesterday, Sens. Chris Murphy (D-CT), John Cornyn (R-TX), Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) released the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, a comprehensive package to address the rising rates of gun violence nationwide. The landmark bill includes key gun safety provisions, including enhanced background checks for firearm purchases for those under age 21 and funding for states to implement extreme risk protection orders. It also makes significant investments in school safety and mental health support for schools and communities.
In response to this announcement, Mark Barden, co-founder and CEO of the Sandy Hook Promise Action Fund and father of Daniel, who was killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting, issued the following statement:
“After nearly a decade of steadfast work with Republicans and Democrats to advance bipartisan gun safety solutions that will protect our schools and communities, Sandy Hook Promise is proud to have served as a trusted advisor in crafting key areas of this landmark Senate package. This bill marks a critical turning point in marrying common sense gun safety with proven, community-based prevention programs, school safety initiatives, and mental health investments. I urge Leader Schumer to bring this bill for a vote as soon as possible.”
And Nicole Hockley, co-founder and CEO of the Sandy Hook Promise Foundation and mother of Dylan, who was killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting, issued the following statement:
“Today we see that our Senators can set aside politics and come together to prioritize the safety and well-being of our children and communities. We commend this bipartisan group of Senators – including our Connecticut Senators Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal along with Senator John Cornyn of Texas – for showing bold leadership. This is a significant step forward that will save lives. I ask every citizen to demand Congress support this package – and do not stop until it hits President Biden’s desk. Make your voice heard. Text PROTECT to 79775 to be connected directly to your senator.”