How We Can Tighten Up Background Checks Without Infringing on the Second Amendment (Rep. Carolyn McCarthy)

Improving the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) has been on the top of my agenda for over 5 years. Our current system is deeply flawed and incomplete. Each day, individuals who are barred from purchasing firearms under the 1968 Gun Control Act slip through the cracks, pass background checks and purchase firearms. Congress must address the systems flaws to ensure only those legally eligible to purchase firearms can do so.

My legislation will enforce the provisions of the 1968 Gun Control Act without expanding the background check system.  It ensures those adjudicated of mental illness cannot legally purchase firearms, but does not infringe on the 2nd Amendment rights of individuals suffering from, but not limited to,  Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression or anxiety.  HR 297 will fund the states and their courts up to $375 million each year for three years to import records of those barred from purchasing a firearm into the NICS system.  Nothing in this legislation will infringe on the 2nd Amendment rights of law abiding citizens.

I am hopeful that the House will move swiftly on this legislation that will strengthen our background check system and make our streets and cities safer for all.