Expand Background Checks

Tell Congress that you support the bipartisan proposals to expand background checks to cover all commercial sales, including gun shows and classifieds (S.AMDT. 715/H.R. 1565).

The recent tragedy in Newtown, CT is a tragic reminder that over 30,000 Americans die each year as a result of gun violence. The number and severity of violent shootings in recent years can only be described as an epidemic. We are inspired by a Jewish tradition that emphasizes the sanctity of human life, and commands us to turn weapons of destruction into tools for the greater good of society.

Senators Manchin (D-WV) and Toomey (R-PA) introduced a bipartisan plan to greatly expand background checks. This same plan was introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressmen King (R-NY) and Thompson (D-CA). Although the proposal does not cover all gun sales, it promises to close dangerous loopholes that exempt gun shows and online sales from background checks.

Out of 100 members of the United States Senate, 55 voted for strong background checks legislation. Unfortunately, Senate rules require 60 votes. Use the form below to thank senators who stood with the 92% of the American people who support strong background checks AND/OR to send a note of persuasion to those who did not. Be sure to let your Representative know where you stand as well!

Background

Over 30,000 Americans die each year as a result of gun violence. The number and severity of violent shootings in recent years can only be described as an epidemic.It is imperative that President Obama and Congress require background checks for all gun sales and advance other common sense gun violence prevention measures.

As if the United States needed one more reminder about the epidemic nature of gun violence, we have seen more than 70 mass shootings since Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and others were shot in Tucson, Arizona in 2011. Most recently, we witnessed the tragic shooting of 20 young children and eight adults at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. Each year, more than 30,000 Americans die from gun violence. Each day, more than 80 fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, children, family and friends are killed as a result of our inability to advance common-sense regulations.

As we continue to mourn the lives of those murdered, it is our collective responsibility to advance sensible gun-laws aimed at curbing future violence and Congress must act swiftly.

Jewish Values

Jewish tradition emphasizes the sanctity and primary value of human life. The Bible commands us, “Thou shalt not murder” (Exodus 20:13). The Talmud teaches us that “he who takes one life it is as though he has destroyed the universe, and he who saves one life it is as though he has saved the universe” (Mishnah Sanhedrin 4:5).

Scripture encourages peaceful pursuit of our mutual welfare. Isaiah exhorts the people of the earth to “beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks” (Isaiah 2:4). We also are commanded to turn weapons of destruction into tools for the greater good of society.

Take Action

Ask your Members of Congress to advance sensible gun laws. To reach your Members of Congress, call the Capital Switchboard at 202.224.3121.

For more information, please contact Eisendrath Legislative Assistant Mikey Pasek at mpasek@rac.org or 202.387.2800.