Congresswoman Tenney’s Statement on Partisan Gun Control Package

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22) today released the following statement after the passage of House Democrats’ partisan gun control package.

“The recent shootings in Buffalo, Uvalde, and Tulsa are senseless acts of pure evil. Our nation grieves for those lives lost. As a mother, I can only imagine the pain and frustration families are experiencing as they cope with the loss of a son, daughter, mother, father, brother, or sister.

“In the face of these tragedies, the question is not whether we should respond, but rather how we can respond effectively and responsibly to address rising crime in our communities. Unfortunately, House Democrats once again missed the mark. They failed to acknowledge the root causes of these tragedies. From the breakdown in our society and the fraying of the very social networks that once bound us together to criminal justice reforms that have demonized police while celebrating criminals, our country needs a serious course correction.

“Instead of knee-jerk reactions that undermine due process and infringe on our Second Amendment, there are commonsense steps Congress can take now to address the problem. First, we should improve the existing background check system to make sure it works as intended. In Congress, I support legislation such as the 21st Century NICS Act, which would close the so-called, ‘Charleston Loophole.’ This measure could have prevented the tragic 2015 shooting in Charleston. Second, we need to invest in mental health care and services. I am honored to have recently joined a bipartisan group of lawmakers to introduce the REACHING Improved Mental Health Outcomes for Patients Act. This bill would go a long way in improving mental health resources for Americans and law enforcement. Third, we must harden our schools by taking steps to increase teacher training and enhance facility security.

“These shootings are a tragic symptom of a far more systemic deterioration of our society and institutions. Infringing further on the Constitutional rights and due process of law-abiding Americans is not the answer, and it will not solve the problem.”

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