Massachusetts Legislature Passes Measure to Address Dangerous Supreme Court Decision on Gun Permitting, Promises Future Action on Gun Safety; Moms Demand Action, Students Demand Action Respond

The Massachusetts chapters of Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action, both part of Everytown for Gun Safety’s grassroots networks, released the following statement responding to applauding the Massachusetts House of Representatives passing legislation that would address the Supreme Court’s decision in New York State Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen, which endangered a portion of Massachusetts’ concealed carry permitting process that has helped to keep Bay Staters safe for decades. The bill will next be sent to the Senate for consideration. Speaker Ron Mariano and Senate President Karen Spilka also announced the legislature’s intention to take up a broader gun safety package next session. Volunteers drove over 1,600 emails to lawmakers in support of a gun safety package this legislative session, including legislation to prohibit ghost guns — unserialized, untraceable, do-it-yourself guns made from easy-to-get building blocks that can be purchased without a background check.

“The Supreme Court’s callous, dangerous decision could put the lives of countless Bay Staters in jeopardy — and we are encouraged that the House and Senate have announced an agreement on legislation to address it,” said Rina Schneur, a volunteer with the Massachusetts chapter of Moms Demand Action. “We are disappointed that further action has not been taken on other life-saving legislation, but are grateful for Speaker Mariano and President Spilka’s commitment to take up a comprehensive gun safety package next session. As gun violence continues to devastate communities across our Commonwealth, we expect to work in partnership with our legislators to make this a top priority early next session and reaffirm our status as a national leader on gun safety.”

In an average year in Massachusetts, 255 people die by guns and 557 people are wounded. Gun violence costs Massachusetts $3.5 billion each year, of which $85.4 million is paid by taxpayers. More information on gun violence in Massachusetts is available here.