Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today after the Senate voted to proceed to debate on the "Safe Communities, Safe Schools Act of 2013" to expand background checks, address gun trafficking, and improve school safety. The Senate voted to end the Republican-led filibuster by a bipartisan vote of 68-31.
"Today, a bipartisan coalition in the Senate sent a clear message: it's time to move forward on legislation to prevent gun violence, to keep weapons out of the wrong hands, and to ensure the safety and security of our schools and families.
"With this vote, the latest Republican effort to obstruct and prevent this debate failed, and our legislative process can proceed. Now, it is time for the Senate to take the next step: to pass this legislation to expand background checks, reduce gun trafficking, and improve school safety. We owe nothing less to the families of Sandy Hook and to the loved ones of all victims of gun violence.
"Americans deserve a fair, honest debate on the most effective ways to protect and defend our communities. The Senate voted to open that debate today and Senate leaders pledged to bring up votes on these measures, along with bans on assault weapons and large-capacity assault magazines. House Republicans should listen to the American people and work with Democrats to enact meaningful gun violence prevention legislation without further delay."