The most substantial gun control bill in 30 years has been approved by the US Senate, marking a significant development in firearm legislation. The measure, passed by a vote of 65 to 33, saw 15 Republicans joining forces with Democrats in the Senate. It will now need to go through the House of Representatives before it can be signed into law by President Biden. The President called on the House members to promptly vote on the bipartisan bill and send it to his desk, emphasizing the urgent need for action to address gun violence in communities.
The bill includes provisions for stricter background checks for buyers under 21, along with $15 billion in federal funding for mental health programs and school security upgrades. Additionally, it calls for funding to encourage states to implement “red flag” laws aimed at removing firearms from individuals deemed to pose a threat, as well as closing the “boyfriend loophole” to prevent gun sales to those convicted of abusing unmarried intimate partners.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has pledged to expedite the bill’s passage in the House, despite opposition from Republican leader Kevin McCarthy. The bipartisan nature of the bill’s support is particularly noteworthy, as it signifies a rare instance of significant backing from both Democrats and Republicans, breaking with the historical trend of Republican resistance to efforts to strengthen US gun laws.
The urgency for action is underscored by the high rate of firearms-related deaths in the US, which exceeds that of other wealthy nations. The approval of this bill represents a pivotal step towards addressing the pressing issue of gun violence in the country.