Udall Votes to Prevent Suspected Terrorists from Obtaining Guns

WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall joined Senate Democrats in pushing for two measures to close loopholes in the law by expanding background checks for gun purchases and preventing suspected terrorists from obtaining guns. The measures, offered as amendments to the annual Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies funding bill, were blocked by Senate Republicans who offered counter proposals that would weaken gun laws.

"Today, we had the opportunity to pass measures supported by an overwhelming number of Americans that could prevent the horrific shooting that occurred in Orlando last weekend. But we were unable to do it, in part because of the gridlock and influence of the Koch brothers and other special interest groups dedicated to preventing any changes in the law," Udall said. "These are commonsense amendments to keep guns out of the wrong hands. They would prevent known terror suspects from being able to buy guns, and require background checks for almost all gun sales - and they would do this while ensuring law-abiding Americans' Second Amendment rights are not infringed. Americans are frustrated by the hold that special interests have on Washington, and this is just another example. It's just one reason I'm working hard to rein in out-of-control campaign spending, shine a light on billionaire donors hiding in dark corners, and put elections back in the hands of American voters."

The two Democratic amendments would have:
-Expanded FBI background checks to cover nearly all gun transfers, thereby closing loopholes that allow criminals, those with mental illness, and terrorists to buy guns from private sellers at gun shows and over the internet without a background check.

-Given the Attorney General the ability to deny a gun transfer to a known or suspected terrorist when the buyer represents a threat to public safety and there is a reasonable suspicion that the buyer is, or has been, engaged in terrorist activity. The amendment also would require the Attorney General to establish procedures to ensure that she is promptly notified of the attempted purchase of a firearm by someone who is, or within the previous five years has been, under investigation for terrorism. The amendment provides for an appeal process and the protection of classified information. Last week, Udall announced his support for a related bill.