St. Paul, Minn - House DFL Leadership released the following statements today in response to Governor Tim Walz calling on Senate Republicans to hold hearings on two common-sense gun violence prevention measures that the DFL House Majority passed but were blocked by the Republican-led Senate.
“The DFL Majority in the Minnesota House passed two broadly-supported, common-sense gun safety measures to make our families and communities safer — criminal background checks and red flag legislation,” said House Speaker Melissa Hortman. “Minnesotans have been loud and clear that they want the legislature to take action to address senseless gun violence. The House has responded to this call to action. Senate Republicans should listen to Minnesotans and join the DFL-led House in supporting and passing these measures so we can send them to Governor Walz's desk.”
“Minnesotans are heartbroken by the events in Dayton and El Paso. They deserve to have their voices and their concerns heard,” said Majority Leader Ryan Winkler. “The House DFL passed measures to increase background checks and keep weapons out of the hands of dangerous people, and we remain committed to addressing gun violence. But just like Mitch McConnell, Senator Gazelka is making excuses and refusing to allow hearings on legislation that would keep Minnesotans safe.”