A year after President Biden signed the most substantial federal gun safety legislation in decades, he's calling for further action. Speaking at a summit in Connecticut, Biden highlighted the law's implementation while advocating for universal background checks and a ban on assault weapons. This marks a notable shift in the Democratic platform on gun control.
The summit, organized by Senator Chris Murphy and gun safety groups, aims to capitalize on the momentum of the recent legislation. Murphy challenged the long-held belief that gun safety was a losing political issue, attributing this misconception to the gun lobby's influence.
The 2022 law, enacted following the Uvalde school shooting, strengthened background checks for young buyers, restricted firearm access for domestic violence offenders, and supported state red flag laws. Positive outcomes include blocked transactions for under-21 purchasers and increased prosecutions of unlicensed gun sellers and traffickers. Funding for mental health services in schools has also increased.
Despite the law's passage, mass shootings continue to plague the nation. 2023 is on track to surpass previous years in mass killing incidents, with firearms remaining the leading cause of death among children. Biden acknowledged the need for more comprehensive measures, emphasizing the urgency of addressing gun violence.
Biden's push for an assault weapons ban faces resistance from some Republicans who supported the 2022 law. Concerns have been raised about potential deviations from the negotiated terms of the existing legislation. Following the summit, Biden will continue his campaign travel and fundraising efforts.
