Today, the bipartisan, bicameral Problem Solvers Caucus endorsed Representative Carlos Curbelo' (FL-26) and Seth Moulton' (MA-6), bipartisan legislation to ban devices known as "bump stocks," H.R. 3999. Curbelo and Moulton introduced the legislation last year after a bump stock was used during a mass shooting in Las Vegas.
"For the first time in decades, there is growing bipartisan consensus for sensible gun policy, a polarizing issue that has deeply divided Republicans and Democrats," Curbelo said. "This common-sense legislation will ban devices that blatantly circumvent already existing law without restricting Second Amendment rights. I'm grateful for the Problem Solvers Caucus' support and hope that paired with the activism of Americans across the nation we can build enough momentum to stir even more of my colleagues to join us in supporting policies that could mitigate and prevent similar gun violence tragedies in the future."
"This endorsement is clear proof that bipartisan interest in taking action to end gun violence exists in this Congress, and I truly hope Speaker Ryan is listening," Moulton said. "Children should never live in fear that a weapon of war will be used in their classroom, home, or community. Passage of my bill is an easy first step we can take to help make our communities safer. The ATF's own director has indicated that legislation is a better path towards actual change than the regulatory process. What this country needs most right now is leaders with the courage to do their jobs and legislate. We have a lot to learn from kids who are marching this weekend. I applaud the Problem Solvers for joining me in recognizing that silence and inaction are no longer options."
BACKGROUND
Curbelo and Moulton introduced their bipartisan legislation to ban the manufacture, sale, and use of "bump stocks" and similar devices in October 2017, shortly after one of these devices was used during a mass shooting in Las Vegas. The legislation would also make violation of the law a felony and allow for increased penalties for offenders through a review of federal sentencing guidelines. In addition to Curbelo and Moulton, the perfectly bipartisan effort has 36 co-sponsors -- 18 Republicans and 18 Democrats. Co-sponsorship of the legislation is structured in the Noah's Ark style, meaning Members can only sign on as a co-sponsor with a Member from the other Party.