Lawmakers react to gun control proposal

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) – President Obama unveiled a proposal for curbing gun violence on Wednesday, pushing Congress to pass background checks and bans of military-style assault weapons. Local lawmakers shared overall positive reactions to the President’s proposal.

Congressman Jim Langevin released a statement saying he applauds President Obama’s all-encompassing approach.

““While the accident that nearly took my life reminds me that we cannot prevent every gun-related incident, it also leaves me at a loss that we have not taken every possible step to stop the wrong people from acquiring the most destructive firearms and ammunition. It is long past time that we address the tragic losses that so many in our nation have suffered,” said Langevin. “I applaud President Obama for recommending an all-encompassing approach that covers the most critical ways we can achieve immediate action.”

Congressman David Cicilline believes that Congress should quickly enact legislation that would require a universal background check on gun sales, and ban military-style assault weapons.

Cilcilline also stressed that the safety of families and children is most important.

“Republicans and Democrats should recognize that there is nothing more important than ensuring that children and families can be safe at school, the workplace, and in their homes,” said Cicilline.

Congressman Joe Kennedy expressed that he was eager to move forward with the President’s proposal.

“We will never fully heal the heartbreak in places like Newtown, Aurora, and Tuscon. But we owe it to the memory of those they lost to promise a better future. I look forward to tackling this issue with our President, Governor, and Congress in the days and weeks ahead,” stated Congressman Kennedy.

President Obama also signed 23 executive actions on Wednesday which require no congressional approval, including several aimed at improving access to data for background checks.