NEWSLETTER: Working to Keep Communities Safe from Gun Violence

A MESSAGE FROM CONGRESSMAN HOYER

Sadly, tragic events like those that transpired in Uvalde last week no longer come as a surprise, but that doesn't make them any less searing. Like all of you, I feel immense grief whenever we're faced with these difficult times. From Sandy Hook to Stoneman Douglas, Great Mills to the Capital Gazette, and now to Robb Elementary, we have seen the consequences of our gun violence epidemic time and time again. According to CDC data, guns killed nearly 45,000 people in 2020, and over 700 of those people died in mass shootings. Thousands of others were injured in shootings across the country. Although some may lead you to believe that this challenge is insurmountable, we can take steps today to make our country safer from gun violence.

My Democratic colleagues and I are working tirelessly to pass common-sense gun reform supported by a large majority of both Americans and responsible gun owners. When I return to Washington next week, I will bring the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act to the Floor and work to pass it through the House. The legislation would establish "Red Flag" laws that prevent people who are a danger to themselves or others from possessing firearms legally.

As we strive to reduce gun violence in our country, we must keep the students and teachers who died at Uvalde and the numerous victims who came before them in our thoughts. Thoughts are not enough, however. We can take meaningful action to prevent additional communities, families, and loved ones from suffering similar grief in the future, but only if we display the same courage that all Americans must show whenever they go to a grocery store, place of worship, or school knowing that a shooting may occur at any moment. Together, we can work to build a better, safer America not only for our children, but for all.

As always, I encourage all Fifth-District residents to continue sharing their concerns and feedback with me by contacting my office or connecting with me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. If you are need of assistance, such as with help accessing veterans' benefits or have another issue regarding a federal agency, and you wish for my office to place an inquiry on your behalf, please complete the casework request form by clicking here.

Sincerely Yours,

Steny H. Hoyer