National PTA Disappointed with Senate’s Continued Inaction on Gun Violence Prevention Measures
ALEXANDRIA, Va., (June 20, 2016)—Today, the U.S. Senate considered four amendments to the Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations Bill aimed at reducing gun violence. All four amendments were defeated.
“National PTA is extremely disappointed with the Senate’s failure to reach bipartisan consensus and act on measures that would actively address gun violence prevention,” said Laura Bay, president of National PTA. “It is critical that members of Congress work together to enact common-sense legislative solutions to help make communities safer nationwide and protect children and families.”
National PTA has a strong history of supporting and advocating for laws and regulations in the areas of gun safety and violence prevention. For decades, the association has called on Congress and other elected officials to work collaboratively and make meaningful changes to prevent and eliminate violence in schools and communities.
National PTA has long believed that we need to:
- Require universal background checks for the sale and possession of firearms
- Limit the availability of high-capacity magazines
- Re-enact a federal ban on the sale and possession of military-style assault weapons
- Provide adequate resources to increase access to comprehensive mental health services
“Our country has experienced far too many gun-related tragedies. Eliminating gun violence in communities, schools and homes is a critical priority for all parents, families, educators and students,” said Shannon Sevier, vice president of advocacy for National PTA. “Our number one task as a nation should be to protect our children and families. It’s urgent that meaningful changes are made to ensure everyone has a safe environment to live, work, learn and thrive.”
About National PTA
National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of family engagement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.