Monthly Report – May 2023
Common Sense Gun Reform – The legislature minority once again brought forth a resolution urging both state and federal representatives to adopt various methods of common-sense gun reform, including increased background checks, lengthened waiting periods, and a permanent ban on assault weapons. This resolution was submitted in response to the many mass shootings seen across the United States. As of the end of April 2023, there have been over 160 mass shootings, killing over 11,500 people caused by gun related incidents. In 2023 alone there have been 13 K-12 school shootings, the latest being in Tennessee, where once again innocent children were gunned down. However, this resolution once again failed to make it to the floor, with the Republican majority questioning “Common Sense”.
Leading police organizations have increasingly called for action on gun policy and support a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines in order to better protect their communities. They consider themselves outgunned, outmanned and out-staffed.
On June 25, 2022, President Biden signed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act into law, which is a welcome step forward. While this is certainly a long way from the ideal scenario initially proposed by the House of Representatives, seeing the two sides of the aisle working together to pass meaningful legislation is a welcome sight. It is a shame that we have been unable to achieve this sort of bipartisan agreement in Rensselaer County. Passing meaningful gun control legislation is essential for the safety and well-being of our constituents, and it is disappointing that the legislative majority has not joined us in urging the protection of the residents of Rensselaer County, as well as the nation as a whole.
NEXT MEETING – Tuesday, June 13, 2023 in the Rensselaer County Chambers located at 99 Troy Road, East Greenbush.
PUBLIC FORUM – Wednesday, June 7, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.
Residents are welcome to contact our office at 518 270-2890.
www.rensselaercounty.org & follow us on Facebook: “Rensselaer County Legislature – Democratic Team”