Politics & Government

Markey Proposes Recommendations for Biden's Gun Task Force

Congressman Ed Markey sent a letter to Vice President Joe Biden Wednesday calling for a new assault weapons ban and improved background checks, among other measures.

Congressman Ed Markey, who represents Framingham and has a regional office downtown, sent a letter to the vice president Wednesday with proposed recommendations for his task force on guns.

In the letter (attached), the Democrat asks Joe Biden to consider recommending “a new assault weapons ban that includes all semi-automatic weapons capable of accommodating an ammunition magazine greater than 10 rounds.” He also asks the vice president to consider “a ban on ‘drums’ or ‘magazines’ of ammunition that can carry more than 10 bullets, which were used to deadly effect in both the Newtown and Aurora kilings.”

“These are weapons designed for war – not for hunting or protecting one’s home – and have no purpose except to kill as many people as possible without the need to reload,” Markey wrote.

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In the letter, Markey also suggests recommendations requiring background checks for all gun sales (not just those from federally licensed dealers) and steps for improving the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), particularly as it relates to mental health records.

He also wants Biden to consider recommending the repeal of the restrictions imposed by the “Tiahrt Amendments,” which Markey believe “hinder the ability of law enforcement to pursue gun-related crimes,” and lifting the prohibition on federally funded firearms research.

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“There is no single solution that will prevent tragedies such as the horror inflicted upon the victims and their families and loved ones in Newtown,” Markey wrote, “but the rapid advancement in firearms technology should compel lawmakers to take a hard look at the laws governing these deadly weapons.

“Each of us has a responsibility to fight for saner, safer gun laws that uphold the Second Amendment while protecting the security of our schools, streets and communities.”

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