The initiative includes certain restrictions on access to guns for those deemed dangerous, strengthening school safety and funding for mental health programs.
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Posted on 6/13/2022 8:36 AM Updated on 6/13/2022 8:56 AM
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Republican and Democratic senators Sunday, June 12, agreed on several measures aimed at limiting access to firearms in the United States. Joe Biden immediately hailed “significant advances,” even if they don’t include everything “necessary” to “save lives.” The American President had called for more restrictive measures after the death of 21 people, including 19 children, in a massacre at an elementary school in Uvalde (Texas) at the end of May. Thousands of protesters did the same as they marched through several cities including Washington on Saturday.
The initiative, announced by 20 senators, provides for the funding of various support and psychological aid programs and the strengthening of school security, particularly through teacher training.
These senators also want to strengthen criminal and psychological screening for gun buyers between the ages of 18 and 21 and better control over illegal gun sales. “Our project saves lives while protecting the constitutional rights of law-abiding Americans,” summarizes this group, listing proposals but not providing any legal text.
The presence of ten Republican senators among the signatories means that such legislation would have a real chance of passing if all 50 elected Democrats were in favor. Passing it requires a majority of 60 out of 100 senators, with any major advance on gun control blocked by conservatives. “With the support of elected officials from both parties, there is no excuse for delay and no reason not to act quickly in the Senate and House of Representatives. [des représentants]’ underlined Joe Biden, who promises to publish the text immediately if approved.