Introduction of the Gun Show Loophole Closing Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. Speaker, I am honored to introduce today the Gun Show Loophole Closing Act--critical legislation to keep dangerous weapons away from criminals and other prohibited persons. First proposed by my friend and former colleague Rep. Carolyn McCarthy, I am humbled to continue her important effort to end gun violence, and this legislation would take an important step forward.

States across the country, including my home state of New York, have recognized the danger posed by this significant gap in our gun laws that allows complete strangers to buy and sell guns without the background check requirements Congress passed in the Brady Bill. I'm proud that there is momentum around the country to update our gun laws and ensure that weapons do not end up in the wrong hands--but the fact is that we need a federal solution to this national problem. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives has cited gun shows as a ``major trafficking channel'', and lax gun show regulations in one state can allow guns in the hands of criminals in communities many states away.

The Gun Show Loophole Closing Act will close this gap in existing law and give the ATF the resources and authority it needs to ensure that gun shows do not facilitate dangerous gun sales. The legislation will make sure that law enforcement knows the details about shows and that records are kept on firearm sales. These common-sense measures will bring consistent national standards to gun shows, help combat gun trafficking, and keep guns out of the wrong hands.

I hope my colleagues will join me to support this important effort.

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