It’s Time to Take Action to Prevent Senseless Acts of Violence

"We must stand up to the gun lobby that refuses to change and we must reject excuses from politicians who refuse to make an effort to prevent future tragedies."

By State Sen. Chris Larson - Jun 13th, 2016 02:50 pm

MADISON – The following is a statement from Senator Chris Larson (D-Milwaukee) regarding the senseless act of violence that occurred in Orlando early Sunday morning.

“The tragedy in Orlando marked the largest mass shooting in the history of the United States and leaves a nation grieving again. No family should have to deal with this loss. My deepest sympathies and thoughts are with those affected by this senseless act. No person’s life should be cut short or hampered due to gun violence, and I can’t imagine the heart wrenching loss so many families are now experiencing.

“I – along with many of my fellow Democratic colleagues – am reaffirming my commitment to advancing legislation to protect our communities and keep our neighbors safe. While important, moments of silence and prayers are no longer enough, we must take firm action to address the public health crisis of gun violence.

“As a nation of diverse communities, we must unite and stand up to the special interests that continue to block common sense solutions to preventing gun deaths. Gun violence is a public health crisis and deserves immediate action. There are simple and sensible things we, as lawmakers, can do to help prevent many gun deaths. Common sense says we should have universal background checks on all gun purchases. This will provide people the freedom of knowing that guns aren’t being sold to those with previous violent records. Many people may already think that a person on America’s ‘No Fly List’ wouldn’t be allowed to purchase a gun. They, unfortunately, would be wrong. We should also put an end to the sale of assault style rifles that serve no civilian purpose.

“Our policies need to reflect public sentiment about living in a safer community. We must stand up to the gun lobby that refuses to change and we must reject excuses from politicians who refuse to make an effort to prevent future tragedies. We have a right to live free of terror.”