The recently introduced bipartisan gun violence proposal from a group of senators has received a big boost with the endorsement of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), The Wall Street Journal reports.
McConnell’s endorsement furthers the bipartisan group’s efforts to get the legislation to the floor on the senate by next week.
McConnell stated, “If the legislation ends up reflecting what the framework indicates, I’ll be supportive… It’s a step forward on a bipartisan basis.”
The framework which aims to crack down on illegal gun sales, funds mental health programs, and enhances school security was signed onto by 10 senators from each party, eliminate a loophole that allows domestic abusers to purchase weapons if they are not married to their victim, and incentivize states to enact red flag laws.
In order to pass it needs to pass with a filibuster proof majority, meaning 60 senators need to vote in favor.
This would mean 10 Republicans would need to vote in support. One Republican, Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri said the red flag law incentives were a bridge too far for him.
Texas Senator Ted Cruz also expressed opposition to the red flag law portion stating, “I have real concerns about the Democrats’ efforts to push so-called red-flag laws… They have the potential to be a vehicle to disarm law-abiding citizens without protecting due process.”
Currently 19 states and DC have red flag laws, and Senator John Cornyn (R-Tx) a top negotiator of the package has pointed out that the legislation would not make these a requirement.
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