June is National Gun Violence Awareness Month

You know it and I know it: our nation is plagued by an epidemic of gun violence. More than 120 Americans are killed each and every day by guns, a statistic that truly breaks my heart. Congress has a moral obligation to act, and with June being National Gun Violence Awareness Month, I wanted to reach out and let you know what I’m doing to address gun violence in our communities.

One year ago, President Biden signed into law the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, after nearly three decades of Congressional gridlock on gun safety reforms. I was proud to support this vital legislation, which included many commonsense reforms from enhanced background checks on people under the age of 21 to increased penalties for illegal gun traffickers. To further these efforts and protect the people of Delaware, I worked with Senator Coons and Congresswoman Blunt Rochester on the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. Together, we secured more than $1 million to implement red flag laws in Delaware that help keep guns out of the hands of individuals who pose an imminent danger to themselves or others.

Despite this progress, more action is needed to confront the crisis. Getting weapons of war off our streets is central to this mission. We know that the Assault Weapons Ban previously worked to save lives – and that’s why I’ve consistently supported renewing the ban on military-style assault weapons and high-capacity ammunition magazines. Moreover, just about everyone I meet with on this issue, including the overwhelming majority of gun owners, supports comprehensive background checks for all gun sales. I’m proud to support legislation led by my colleague Senator Chris Murphy from Connecticut to close these dangerous loopholes and expand background checks. 

There are several other commonsense steps we must take to promote safer communities. Earlier this month, I cosponsored legislation to close a loophole in federal law that prevents irresponsible gun manufacturers from facing their day in court. I am also proud to support Ethan’s Law, which would protect kids nationwide by requiring gun owners to safely and securely store their firearms.

Too many families across the country have lost a loved one to gun violence, and I refuse to believe that Congress can’t reform our gun laws in a way that the American public broadly supports. I refuse to believe that changing our laws won’t reduce gun violence and save lives in the process. I strongly believe we can work together to build a safer nation for all Americans.

God Bless, 

Tom Carper