Conyers: How Many More Mothers Have to Bury Their Children Before We Close the Gun Show Loophole?

(Chicago) – House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers, Jr. (D-Mich.), Subcommittee Chairman on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security Chairman Bobby Scott (D-Va.), Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), Rep. Mike Quigley (D-Ill.), and Rep. Bobby Rush (D-Ill.) participated today in a Chicago forum on "The Gun Show Loophole Closing Act," H.R. 2324. Convened by fellow Judiciary Committee member, Rep. Quigley, the forum engaged testimony on the dangerous effects of the gun show loophole from survivors of gun violence, law enforcement executives, and academics. Panelists testified to the ease with which criminals can obtain firearms from unlicensed firearms sellers at gun shows.

"The dangerous gun show loophole costs lives," Conyers said. "Requiring background checks for all gun sales at gun shows will not infringe on the rights of law abiding citizens. Those who suggest otherwise undermine public safety."

"My experiences since April 16, 2007 have lead me to conclude that it is far too easy for dangerous people to get their hands on dangerous weapons in this country," stated Virginia Tech shooting survivor, Colin Goddard. "So today, the gun show loophole must be closed."

"There are people murdered everyday in the streets," said Annette Nance-Holt, who recounted the murder of her son. "We have to change these laws to keep the guns out of the communities."

"This is not just an urban, suburban, or rural issue," said Thomas Mannard, Executive Director of the Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence."This is a national issue."