Rep. Mike Thompson Statement on Senate Vote to Allow Debate on Gun Legislation

Statement

U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson, Chair of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, released the following statement on the Senate vote to allow debate on gun legislation.

"Today Senate Republicans and Democrats voted overwhelmingly to reject the shameful filibuster that attempted to deny Americans a vote on legislation that will reduce and prevent gun violence.

"Background checks are the first line of defense against criminals and the dangerously mentally ill from getting guns. That's why the American people, gun owners, NRA members, and even many House Republicans support background checks.

"The bipartisan background check legislation that I will introduce and will be voted on in the Senate is enforceable, will save lives, and respects the Second Amendment rights of law abiding Americans. It's time for Congress to act. The American people are getting a vote in the Senate. They deserve one in the House."

Chairman Thompson is a hunter, gun owner and veteran who carried an assault weapon in Vietnam. He chairs the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force.

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