MEDIA RELEASE

By Senator Brian Schatz

HONOLULU – The President, supported by the people of this country, has made it clear that the nation has a moral obligation to reduce gun violence. His administrative actions and his legislative proposals are designed to keep all people, especially our children safer, while still respecting the rights established in our United States Constitution. We expect rigorous debate because some of these issues are difficult. Let’s bear in mind that no one is talking about taking away rights guaranteed in the second amendment, but we cannot and will not forget the precious lives which have been senselessly lost as we move forward.

I am glad that the package will go beyond gun control to better address the issues of bullying in schools and increasing access to mental health services. I encourage Americans to stay fully engaged with this issue which is so important to all of us.