Rep. Waxman Convenes Forum on Gun Violence and Mental Health

In the wake of the recent Santa Monica shootings, Rep. Henry A. Waxman today convened a forum in Santa Monica to explore issues related to gun violence and mental health.

The forum, featuring elected community leaders and local and national experts on gun violence and mental health, examined the preparation of Santa Monica's first responders, the response by community leaders in the shootings' aftermath, and the lessons that could be learned to prevent future gun violence.

"I want to ensure city residents and the victims of the June 7 Santa Monica shootings that this incident is not forgotten," said Rep. Waxman. "I am determined to do all I can to support the city, support the victims, and make sure that the federal government is doing its part to make sure that this tragedy is not repeated."

At the forum, Rep. Waxman announced plans to introduce legislation, the Gun Violence Prevention and Reduction Act of 2012, to provide a framework for moving forward on gun safety, mental health, and gun violence-related research. The bill would prohibit the sale of homemade gun kits like those used in the Santa Monica shooting. It would also authorize research on serious mental illness, improve access to mental health services, and reinforce existing government authority to conduct public health research on gun violence.

"These ought to be common-sense, bipartisan national priorities," said Rep. Waxman. "I hope to work with leaders from both parties to pass this bill into law."

Rep. Waxman also released a report, prepared by the Democratic staff of the Energy and Commerce Committee, identifying a legal loophole that allows for internet sales of partially completed weapons to circumvent federal and California firearms laws. John Zawarhi, the shooter in Santa Monica, took advantage of this loophole, purchasing the partially complete weapon used in last month's attack online and then assembling it into a dangerous assault rifle. Mr. Zawarhi had a history of mental illness and had been turned down via California's background check system when attempting to purchase a firearm in 2011.

"My investigation revealed a thriving market on the internet for sales of partially completed guns that circumvent federal and state background checks and other gun laws. We must close this egregious loophole," said Rep. Waxman.

Additional information about the forum, Rep. Waxman's proposed legislation, and the report on internet gun sales is available online here.

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