Dear Obo2,



Thank you for contacting me to share your comments regarding gun control measures in response to the shooting in Newtown, Connecticut. I appreciate the opportunity to respond to your concerns on this important issue.



The horrific shooting that took place in Newtown that stole twenty-seven innocent lives – twenty of those children – is an incomprehensible tragedy that has deeply saddened us all. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.



Like you, I know that a serious discussion on what is necessary to prevent these massacres and other senseless acts of violence is long overdue. As Americans, I know that we are capable of such a discussion without politicizing this unthinkable tragedy.



As you may know, the Second Amendment allows responsible, law-abiding U.S. citizens to own firearms, though this valuable protection is not without certain commonsense limitations. For example, federal background checks limit who may purchase firearms, and there are restrictions on the sale of automatic weapons to civilians. Government agencies, police departments, mental health institutions, psychiatrists, and family members may also request that an individual be placed on the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Index as an additional layer of security.



Our country has important laws and systems in place to protect the public, and despite this tragedy, they have been largely effective. Millions of law-abiding gun owners should not be punished as a result of the actions of one disturbed individual, but we must make serious efforts to stop these horrible acts. A comprehensive response means preventing firearms from falling into the hands of those who would do us harm, careful examination of the root causes of these violent acts, and a serious evaluation of how we treat mental health in our country. Above all, it requires thoughtful, reasonable, and thorough discussions – and actions – to prevent these senseless tragedies from devastating our communities and our families ever again. The loss of more innocent lives is unacceptable.



Again, I appreciate your thoughts and it is an honor to serve you in Congress. Your suggestions are always welcome, and if ever I may be of assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.











          Sincerely,

         DR. JOE HECK
         Member of Congress

Quoted:

As you may know, the Second Amendment allows responsible, law-abiding U.S. citizens to own firearms, though this valuable protection is not without certain commonsense limitations. For example, federal background checks limit who may purchase firearms, and there are restrictions on the sale of automatic weapons to civilians. Government agencies, police departments, mental health institutions, psychiatrists, and family members may also request that an individual be placed on the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Index as an additional layer of security.

Quoted:
danced around that pretty well..... seems like a person who can be easily swayed either way.