Landmark Gun Violence Prevention Legislation Cosponsored by Representative Levin Passes House of Representatives
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Rep. Levin joined Rep. Mike Thompson, Gabby Giffords, and student leaders on Monday ahead of the vote on H.R. 8.
Washington, D.C. – Today, landmark gun violence prevention legislation cosponsored by U.S. Representative Mike Levin (D-CA) passed the House of Representatives. The Bipartisan Background Checks Act of 2019, which is the first major congressional action on gun safety in decades, would institute universal background checks on all gun sales and transfers – including private vendors, online sellers, and sellers at gun shows – with very limited exceptions such as gifts to family members and temporary transfers for hunting.
Representative Levin spoke about the bill on the House floor yesterday and highlighted the stories of two constituents who have been impacted by gun violence. See below for his remarks as delivered, and click here to download video of his speech.
I rise today to mark a monumental occasion for this chamber.
For the first time in decades, this body will take up major legislation to address the epidemic of gun violence in this country.
I am a proud cosponsor of H.R. 8, bipartisan legislation to require a background check on every gun sale or transfer.
I know the vast majority of my constituents support this step, including Renae Greg, a woman from Carlsbad who was simply trying to enjoy a country concert when she was forced to dodge bullets at a Las Vegas shooting.
I know that Lonna Leghart, a constituent from Vista, supports this commonsense legislation. Her sister Kimberly tragically lost her life as a result of gun violence in my district.
It is on their behalf, and on behalf of all Americans who are impacted by daily gun violence in this country, that I will support HR 8, and I hope all of my colleagues will stand with us.
There is so much more that we need to do to fully address the epidemic of gun violence, but today is huge step for Renae, Lonna, and families across the country.
Thank you.
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