Larson Votes Against Bill That Could Allow Domestic Abusers to Access Deadly Weapons

Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) voted against H.R. 2189, a bill that was supposed to ensure law enforcement could access nonlethal tools, like tasers, but included a loophole that could allow domestic abusers to access devices that can be transformed into functioning firearms.

In December, after Ways and Means Committee Republicans blocked Rep. Larson's amendment to close this dangerous loophole, he voted against advancing the bill out of Committee. He introduced another amendment when the bill came to the floor, where it was once again blocked by House Republicans.

"The aim of this bill seems simple enough - expanding access to tasers for local law enforcement. While I support local law enforcement and any and all attempts to deescalate conflict and improve trust in our communities, this bill contains a dangerous loophole that could give domestic abusers a pathway to get their hands on functioning firearms," said Larson. "Gun violence is the number one cause for death for children, and just this week, mere miles from the Capitol, there was a school shooting in Maryland. I cannot in good conscience support advancing this bill - especially after Republicans blocked my effort to close these loopholes that could endanger Americans. If we want to make our communities safer, Republicans should work with Democrats to fix this bill and pass universal background checks, an assault weapons ban, and other common sense gun violence prevention measures - not block them from even being considered."