SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA – The House Public Safety and Criminal Justice Finance and Policy Division tonight is hearing two bills to address the epidemic of senseless gun violence. HF 8 and HF 9 will help ensure Minnesotans who may be dangerous or otherwise ineligible from owning or possessing a firearm aren’t able to do so.
HF 8 would require criminal background checks to be performed prior to all gun sales. HF 9 would provide for “Red Flag laws,” temporarily restricting an individual’s access to firearms if a court determines they may be a threat to themselves or others.
“In our committee, we’ve taken a community-centered approach to public safety that engages the full community to solve problems, including that of gun violence,” said Rep. Carlos Mariani (DFL – Saint Paul), committee chair. “Communities need tools they can use to intervene responsibly with those who have a history of criminal problems, or who are exhibiting worrisome behavior.” Continue reading “House DFLers set to approve gun violence prevention legislation”