WASHINGTON — Rep. Mark Takano (D-Riverside) on Jan. 16 threw his support behind the proposals presented by President Obama on addressing the level of gun violence in America.
During the event, Obama signed 23 executive actions and asked for congressional action on reinstating the ban of military style weapons, eliminating armor-piercing bullets, limiting the capacity of ammunition magazines, increasing funding for police officers, mental health services, and more.
Following the president’s announcement, Takano commented, “The tragedy of Sandy Hook Elementary that killed 20 children and six adults has fundamentally changed us and the American people demand action. I was pleased to see the proposals put forward by the president this afternoon, as they show a strong commitment towards reducing gun violence, while still respecting personal liberties.
“By proposing universal background checks, the regulation of military style weapons, increasing funding for mental health services, local law enforcement and school resource officers, the president delivered a multi-faceted approach that aims to uphold our fundamental obligation to protect our children. I look forward to the legislation being presented in Congress and hope for an honest debate about ways to curb gun violence. This time is different, and action must be taken swiftly.”
A week earlier, Takano issued the following statement on the second anniversary of the 2011 Tucson shooting, which killed six and injured 14, including then-Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.):
“We all remember where we were when we heard the tragic news of the events that took place on Jan. 8, 2011 in Tucson, Ariz. That day, six Americans were taken from their families, and 14 others were injured in a senseless act of violence during an event held by Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. Two years later, let us pause and reflect on those lost and continue to offer our thoughts and prayers to their families.
“While I never had the opportunity to serve with Congresswoman Giffords, her miraculous recovery and passion for public service has nonetheless inspired me, and many others.
“Since the events in Tucson, our nation has unfortunately seen additional tragedies in Aurora, Oak Creek and Newtown. While I realize that there is no single solution for preventing mass shootings, I refuse to believe that our current system is the best we can do …
“Our country is undoubtedly at its best when we come together to solve the challenges before us. Let us honor the memories of those fallen in Tucson, Aurora, Oak Creek, and Newtown by committing ourselves to finding ways to prevent similar tragedies from ever happening again.”