WASHINGTON — Following the passage of H.R. 8, the Bipartisan Background Checks Act of 2019, and H.R. 1112, the Enhanced Background Checks Act, two long-overdue, bipartisan gun violence prevention bills, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) issued the following statement:

This week, I casted two strident Yes votes in solidarity with all those who know the acute pain of gun violence. Whether it’s a city block or a place of worship, all families deserve to go about their daily lives free of fear. The passage of H.R. 8, a bill that I co-sponsored, and H.R. 1112 is not only historic, it is a critical step forward as we work to build a future with fewer gun-related tragedies.

As I have often said, firsts are sometimes a bittersweet commentary on progress long overdue. Gun violence is a public health crisis that continues to rob us of lives across the Massachusetts 7th and across America. The passage of both bills this week is an important victory for the young people and activists who led protests to demand systemic change.   

I urge my colleagues in the Senate to vote Yes on these bills and to commit to protecting their constituents from all forms of violence. This is only the first step of many, but together we will continue to create a future where no one is crippled by the anguish of losing a loved one to senseless gun violence.

 

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