Opening Statement

The issue of gun violence has been distorted in America. Some of my colleagues and the media would have you believe that guns are responsible for the massacres this country has endured over the last seven years. Guns don't kill people, people kill people. Today in America our Second Amendment rights are under attack. Many of my colleagues believe expanding background checks, and increasing already burdensome regulations is the only way to stop future massacres. But this proposed bill would not stop the next Columbine. Instead this bill would put in place restrictions on the rights of ordinary gun owners and further obstruct the intent of the Constitution. The laws proposed by this bill would treat the average American gun owner like a criminal, and force him to endure the bureaucracy of the Federal Government. Moreover, this law is unnecessary. Since the year 1991 crime has plummeted to levels not seen since the early 60s. This has been accomplished by easing the restrictions on gun ownership and giving American's the ability to defend themselves. It is imperative we not undue this progress with unnecessary regulations, and burdensome rules. We must preserve our gains and protect our Second Amendment Rights.