Speaker Heastie Statement on Stronger National Gun Laws
In New York I am proud that the Assembly Majority has led the fight for stricter gun laws that are proven to make our communities safer. The horrific events over the last weekend in El Paso and Dayton, and all the other mass shootings that have become too common in our country, underscore the need for urgent action in Washington.
We must do everything we can to prevent these despicable acts. Just this year, measures like the Red Flag Law, stricter background checks, banning bump stocks and getting illegal guns off our streets are now law because of the leadership of our hardworking Assembly Majority members. We have shown the nation what common sense gun laws look like.
New York's Democratic Congressional delegation has worked hard to stem the tide of gun violence and they deserve support and partners in government. Where presidential candidates stand on national gun control will go a long way toward determining who I support for president. I commend Governor Cuomo for taking the lead in pushing for comprehensive federal legislation. Since becoming governor, he has made stricter gun laws a signature issue, and I look forward to continuing to work with him and the Senate Majority to make our communities safe.
We are at a tipping point in the national debate on gun control, and Governor Cuomo is asking the country to follow New York's lead on proposals that will get dangerous weapons off our streets in communities everywhere. It is beyond time to act.