Everytown For Gun Safety Applauds Introduction of Bill to Prohibit People Convicted of Misdemeanor Hate Crimes From Possessing or Purchasing Guns

Orlando Shooting is the Largest Mass Shooting in Modern U.S. History; Everytown Research (And Visuals) on Gun Violence by the Numbers Available Here

NEW YORK – Following the largest and deadliest mass shooting in modern American history at an Orlando gay nightclub this weekend, Everytown for Gun Safety is applauding the introduction of new legislation by Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) to prohibit people convicted of misdemeanor hate crimes from possessing or purchasing guns.

STATEMENT FROM JOHN FEINBLATT, PRESIDENT OF EVERYTOWN FOR GUN SAFETY

“In the wake of the worst mass shooting in U.S. history—not only a terrorist attack, but also an attack against the LGBT community—Senator Casey’s bill is a necessary step forward to make sure that individuals convicted of violent or threatening hate crimes can’t buy guns. Ninety percent of hate crimes involve violence, and there have been an incredible 43,000 such crimes committed with guns over the past five years. Attacks motivated by bias and prejudice should not be tolerated. In the last few years, we’ve seen horrific mass shootings animated by hate towards religious groups, women, and African-Americans—in Oak Creek, Isla Vista, and Charleston. Congress should act to protect Americans from those who seek to do harm on the basis of race, sex, sexual orientation, religion, gender identity, national origin, or disability.”