1. Description: SB 209, a bipartisan bill sponsored by Senator Hughes and its house companion HB 1400, attempt to close the long gun loophole, creating universal background checks in PA, so we can join with states like California, Delaware, and New York, who have set an example for the rest of the country.

2. Status:

   1. SB 209 is in the Senate JUDICIARY COMMITTEE. If you are a constituent of one of these legislators please make a concerted effort to call. Legislators like hearing from voters in their district.

   2. HB 1400 is in the House JUDICIARY COMMITTEE. If you are a constituent of one of these legislators please make a concerted effort to call. Legislators like hearing from voters in their district.

3. Talking Points:

• This bill will not target law abiding citizens. The NRA says that: “By criminalizing otherwise lawful transfers, this bill could unknowingly turn a law-abiding person into a criminal.  For example, simply loaning a firearm to a friend could turn a law-abiding gun owner into a criminal overnight” That’s a logical fallacy. Responsible gun owners shouldn’t  lend out their firearms. (NRA)
• Background checks keep guns out of the hands of criminals, the dangerously mentally ill, people with protection from abuse orders, and drug abusers. (Cease Fire PA) Background checks are an effective way to make sure that guns don’t end up in the wrong hands.
• This is not about stepping on anyone’s Second Amendment right, this is strictly about common sense. In addition to keeping guns out of the hands of criminals and other dangerous folk, this legislation actually makes it easier for those who have a concealed carry permit. Instead of needing multiple background checks, now they will only need one.

Check out this infographic for more information about background checks.