Urge Immediate Action to Close Background Check Loophole

The recent surge in gun violence, both politically motivated and otherwise, has made it painfully clear that we must address the root of the problem: easy access to firearms. As your constituent, I urge you to take immediate action to close the dangerous background check loophole in our current gun laws. While federal law requires background checks for sales by licensed dealers, a significant gap exists for unlicensed sellers, including those operating online or at gun shows. This loophole is putting our communities at risk. Shockingly, 22% of Americans report acquiring their most recent firearm without undergoing a background check. This means that potentially dangerous individuals can easily obtain weapons without proper vetting. The evidence supporting universal background checks is compelling. States that have implemented laws requiring checks for all handgun sales have seen lower rates of gun homicides, suicides, and trafficking. Currently, only 22 states have adopted such comprehensive measures. We need federal action to ensure consistent protection across the nation. While the ATF's 2024 rule requiring more unlicensed sellers to obtain dealer licenses is a step in the right direction, it does not fully close the loophole in federal law. With nearly 78,000 licensed gun dealers in the US - more than major fast food chains combined - we have the infrastructure to implement universal background checks effectively. I implore you to support and champion legislation that mandates background checks for all gun sales, regardless of the seller's status. This common-sense measure is crucial for keeping firearms out of the wrong hands and reducing gun violence in our communities. The majority of Americans support comprehensive background checks, and it's time for our laws to reflect this consensus. The human cost of inaction is too high. We need your leadership to prioritize public safety and take concrete steps towards responsible gun ownership. Please act now to close the background check loophole and help prevent future tragedies.