Governor Walz Presses for Gun Reform Hearing

Governor Tim Walz said he will continue requesting that the Minnesota Senate conduct a hearing on gun reform measures, specifically proposals establishing extreme risk protection orders and background checks on firearm transfers. Walz met with the media Wednesday, August 7, but did not commit to calling a special session on the issue without an agreement with legislative leaders. "The other piece of advice I got from past governors was ... have an end game in sight, do not call an open ended special session." He said his administration has ideas on reforming the Department of Human Services and addressing high insulin costs that he would be willing to include in a special session.

Earlier in the week, Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka issued a press release on gun reform proposals: "We are looking for solutions that work and that have significant bipartisan support. Most gun purchases already require background checks. Universal background checks on sales to relatives, friends, and neighbors have not proven to eliminate deranged murderers from killing innocent people. We can continue to focus on mental health issues broadly and tougher sentencing on felons caught using guns in their criminal activities."