In the state of Vermont, there are eleven times the number
of licensed gun dealers as there are McDonald's.
But criminals can take to the internet, where it's easier to buy guns
without a background check. That's why the legislature introduced a bill last
week to close the loophole, and it has the support of 81% of Vermont residents,
including 77% of the state's gun owners.
In Nevada, the legislature has 40 days from next Monday to
pass a background checks bill, or the legislation is referred directly to the
ballot for a vote next November.
Oregon has a good chance of passing universal background
checks early this year, Connecticut is working to improve its
gun laws, and in Arizona legislators are planning introduction
of commonsense gun safety bills.
It's not all offense, however.
The gun lobby is actually suing cities in Pennsylvania
because they have laws on the books that require gun owners to report a missing
or stolen weapon. These laws are meant to stop guns from falling into the hands
of criminals.
As our efforts to prevent gun violence shift towards the states, we'll keep
you updated.
But know that the grassroots movement Gabby and Mark started, and you've
joined, is well positioned to challenge the gun lobby in a way no one has
before.
That's why your contribution is so important.