McGovern Statement on Orlando Shooting and Need for Congress to Finally Pass Commonsense Gun Reform

Washington, DC, June 14, 2016

Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) spoke on the House floor today about the tragic shooting at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando that killed 49 people and injured 53 more. Below is the text of Congressman McGovern’s speech, as prepared for delivery.

“Americans across the country are horrified and saddened by the tragic loss of life in Orlando and the senseless gun violence that caused it. What is even more upsetting is that these mass shootings have become routine. Are we really the kind of country that will accept this as the new normal?

“It is outrageous that there is a loophole in this country that allows suspected terrorists on the FBI’s no-fly list to walk into a gun store and legally buy deadly weapons. Plain and simple, if you’re too dangerous to fly, you’re too dangerous to buy a gun. That’s why I am joining House Democrats in demanding an immediate vote on the bipartisan ‘No Fly, No Buy’ legislation authored by Republican Congressman Peter King.

“And it is time to enact commonsense legislation to ban assault weapons like the ones used in horrific mass shootings like the one in Orlando. These are weapons of war intended to cause mass casualties in a matter of minutes and have no place in our homes and communities.

“I am also calling on House Republicans to pass the Hate Crimes Prevention Act – a bill that would prevent criminals who have been convicted of misdemeanor assault against a victim based on his or her race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability from causing further harm with a gun. This is commonsense and both parties need to come together to take action. American lives are literally on the line. We can’t wait any longer.”

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