Hoyer Statement on President Obama's Creation of Gun Violenc

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Hoyer Statement on President Obama's Creation of Gun Violence Task Force

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today on President Obama's creation of an interagency gun violence task force led by Vice President Joe Biden:

“Today’s announcement by the President of an interagency task force to address mass-casualty gun violence is an important step as our nation continues to mourn the victims of last week’s horrific shooting in Newtown, Connecticut. Vice President Biden has been a staunch advocate for sensible measures to reduce violent crimes, and he will bring to the task force a depth of experience and the direct link to the Oval Office that this issue deserves.

“I agree with President Obama that words must lead to real action, and it is clear he and Vice President Biden are strongly committed to this effort. This is a very complicated issue, but that cannot be an excuse for inaction. We can pursue a common sense path that respects the ability of individuals to own guns for hunting and protection, while reducing the danger posed by high-capacity magazines and assault weapons and preventing guns from falling into the hands of those who should not have them. One step Congress can take is to pass the McCarthy-DeGette Assault Magazine Ban bill, which I’m proud to co-sponsor.

“The President’s task force has a critical job ahead. I look forward to the recommendations they propose, and will work with my colleagues to move legislation forward to accomplish these goals.”

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