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Democrats Seek Stricter Gun Background Checks: 'No More Thoughts and Prayers'
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March 11, 2021
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1:54Now PlayingDemocrats are making a new push to enact the first major new gun control laws in more than two decades, starting with stricter background checks.
The House is poised to pass two bills on Thursday that would require background checks on all firearms sales and transfers and also allow an expanded 10-day review for gun purchases.
Similar bills were passed by the House in 2019, shortly after Democrats won the majority, but languished in the GOP-controlled Senate for the next two years.
Democrats now hold the Senate, as well, giving the party hope that the legislation will at least be considered. But the bills would need significant bipartisan support to pass.
The renewed push is the latest effort by Democrats – and some Republicans – who have repeatedly tried, and failed, to pass tougher gun control laws since the 2012 shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut that killed 20 children and six educators.
While enhanced background checks are generally popular with the American public, even with some conservatives, Congress has so far not been able to find compromise on the issue.
It is unclear whether Senate Democrats could find deep enough support among Republicans to pass new gun control legislation in a 50-50 Senate, as they would need 60 votes to do so.
Still, the bills are part of an effort by Democrats to move on several major legislative priorities while they hold both chambers of Congress and the White House.
The first bill is designed to close loopholes to ensure that background checks are extended to private and online sales that often go undetected, including at gun shows. The legislation includes limited exceptions allowing temporary transfers to prevent imminent harm, for use at a target range and for gifts from family, among others.
The second bill would extend the review period for background checks from three to 10 days.
President Joe Biden has called for Congress to strengthen gun laws, including requiring the background checks on all gun sales and banning assault weapons.
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