Thompson: "Time for Congress to Act" on Background Checks for Guns

U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson, D-St. Helena, said he was glad the Senate voted Thursday to allow a debate on gun legislation.

Thompson, Chair of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, said he hoped the House of Representatives would follow suit.

“Today Senate Republicans and Democrats voted overwhelmingly to reject the shameful filibuster that attempted to deny Americans a vote on legislation that will reduce and prevent gun violence," Thompson said.

“Background checks are the first line of defense against criminals and the dangerously mentally ill from getting guns," he added. "That’s why the American people, gun owners, NRA members, and even many House Republicans support background checks. 

 “The bipartisan background check legislation that I will introduce and will be voted on in the Senate is enforceable, will save lives, and respects the Second Amendment rights of law abiding Americans," Thompson said.

"It’s time for Congress to act," he added.  "The American people are getting a vote in the Senate; they deserve one in the House.” 

Thompson is a hunter, gun owner and veteran who carried an assault weapon in Vietnam. He chairs the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force.

Early this year, Thompson led a in the wake of the Newtown, Conn. shootings in December.

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