WASHINGTON requests HEARINGS OVER SUMMER ON GUN LEGISLATION

          HARRISBURG, June 28 – State Senator Leanna M. Washington (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) called on the Senate Judiciary committee to hold hearings, over the summer, on Senate Bill 1241, which would limit handgun sales to one per month in Philadelphia. 

          Senator Washington is primary sponsor of the legislation, as well as Senate Bill 1002, which calls for a statewide limit on handgun sales to one per month.

          At a Senate Judiciary committee meeting yesterday, Washington also asked that Senate Bill 1241 be tabled until the hearings have been held.

          Washington was joined at the committee meeting by four mothers from Philadelphia, all of whom have experienced tragedy related to gun violence in the city.

          “Gun control advocates have opposed this legislation because they do not believe that it goes far enough, while gun rights groups have encouraged opposition because it goes too far,” Washington said. “Many members have questions, and I think it is important that members understand how important this issue is in slowing the illegal trafficking of handguns.

          “I believe hearings over the summer will give us an opportunity to begin an earnest discussion on both Senate Bill 1241 and 1002.” 

          Washington said she is encouraged by the decision of the committee to hold the hearings, even though the scope was widened by the chairman to look at violence in general. As part of the hearings, tentatively planned for Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Harrisburg, the committee will look at both Senate Bill 1241 and Senate Bill 1002.