The epidemic of gun violence in America demands immediate and serious action. In Congress, I would be a strong advocate for imposing serious and comprehensive controls on gun ownership to minimize the odds that firearms fall into the wrong hands.
We should regulate firearm possession at least as much as we currently regulate motor vehicle possession. Just as we require drivers to be licensed, tested, and insured before operating a vehicle, we should implement a comprehensive licensing system for firearms. Guns are powerful tools that require proper training and responsibility. I support creating a national system that requires:
- Universal background checks for all gun purchases, no exceptions
- Safety training and competency testing
- Regular license renewal with updated background checks
- Registration of firearms similar to vehicle registration
- Insurance requirements for gun owners
Assault Weapons Ban. I unequivocally support reinstating the federal assault weapons ban. These weapons have no place on our streets or near our schools. I am proud that Massachusetts has led the nation with our state-level ban; that should serve as a model for the nation. Red Flag Nationwide. Massachusetts has likewise proven that Extreme Risk Protection Orders work—they provide a legal process to temporarily remove firearms from individuals in crisis who pose a danger to themselves or others. I’ll fight to expand these protections nationwide while ensuring due process rights are respected.
