Schatz Votes in Support of Background Checks

WASHINGTON – Senator Brian Schatz released the following statement on the Senate’s failure to pass legislation that would require background checks, preventing criminals from purchasing guns:

“It’s extremely disappointing that the Senate failed to pass measures to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and the severely mentally ill,” said Senator Brian Schatz.  “My heart goes out to the victims of gun violence and their families who have worked tirelessly to get their elected leaders to support this commonsense reform.  While I support second amendment rights,  I stand with President Obama and 90% of the American people in supporting criminal background checks in order to keep our children and loved ones safe. We are not done and this fight is not over. I am confident that commonsense will prevail.” 

Schatz also co-sponsored Senator Feinstein’s assault weapons ban and voted to proceed with a vote on background checks. 

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