background checks
Posted inJustice, Politics

Senate rejects Murphy background-check provision and ‘terror gap’ bill

Avatar photo by Ana Radelat

Updated at 9:28 p.m.
WASHINGTON — For the second time since the slaughter at Sandy Hook Elementary School, the U.S. Senate has rejected an effort to expand FBI background checks of gun purchasers. Lawmakers also killed an effort to bar those on the terrorist watch list from purchasing weapons, as well as two competing GOP proposals.

Posted inPolitics

After Orlando shooting, lawmakers renew push for gun reform

Avatar photo by Kyle Constable

Less than 36 hours after a shooting at an Orlando nightclub left 50 people dead and more than 50 others injured, three Connecticut lawmakers renewed their calls for federal action to combat gun violence, including increased background checks, a ban on the sale of assault weapons and a ban on the purchase of any weapons while on the FBI’s terrorist watchlist.

Posted inPolitics

Newtown father lonely voice as Senate panel blasts Obama gun moves

Avatar photo by Ana Radelat

WASHINGTON – Mark Barden ,who lost his 7-year-old son Daniel in the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School, was outnumbered but undaunted Wednesday at a Senate hearing on President Obama’s recent moves to tighten gun laws. “I am before you today as an informed, proud American. These modest proposals will go a long way toward not only saving lives, but also improving quality of life,” he said. “And I am before you today as a grieving father who knows firsthand the cost of inaction.”