Statement On New York City's Investigation Of Gun Shows

Oct 7, 2009

Washington, DC - Paul Helmke, President of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, issued the following statement about the announcement, by New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, of the results of an investigation into gun shows:

"Many transactions at gun shows are a threat to public safety.  We need leadership on this issue from the White House and we don’t have it right now.  President Obama supported tightening the rules at gun shows as a Senator and as a candidate for President in 2007 and 2008.  But since taking office, he has refused to engage on this issue, and he appears to have silenced his Cabinet secretaries as well.

"The President needs to urge Congress to close this dangerous loophole, and his Administration needs to provide the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives the resources to effectively enforce federal gun laws.  Thanks to Mayor Bloomberg and the New York City Police Department, the public can see firsthand what goes on at these weapons markets.  Private sellers trade AK-47s for cash without even seeing identification, and straw purchases occur regularly without oversight. 

"This important investigation shines light on two critical gaps regarding gun shows. First, unlicensed sellers are selling guns without conducting Brady criminal background checks - cash and carry, no questions asked.  Second, some licensed sellers operating at gun shows are breaking current federal laws, and are not held accountable due to the lack of federal law enforcement oversight at these events. Mayor Bloomberg and New York’s law enforcement leaders deserve praise for conducting this investigation."

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As the nation's largest, non-partisan, grassroots organization leading the fight to prevent gun violence, the Brady Campaign, with its dedicated network of Million Mom March Chapters, works to enact and enforce sensible gun laws, regulations and public policies. The Brady Campaign is devoted to creating an America free from gun violence, where all Americans are safe at home, at school, at work, and in our communities.

For continuing insight and comment on the gun issue, read Paul Helmke's blog at www.bradycampaign.org/blog/. Visit the Brady Campaign website at www.bradycampaign.org.