GIFFORDS Celebrates Governor Walz for Signing Straw Purchasing Bill into Law

Washington DC — GIFFORDS, the national gun violence prevention organization founded by former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, celebrates the final passage and signature of Minnesota’s HF2609. The bill expands existing straw purchasing bans in the state from pistols to all firearms; and also increases the penalties for purchasing a firearm for someone who isn’t legally allowed to have one. GIFFORDS was proud to partner with Minnesota legislators and in-state allies to support this important gun violence prevention measure. 

Straw purchases, when one individual buys a firearm for someone otherwise prohibited from possessing or purchasing one, dangerously undermine states’ existing gun violence prevention laws and can drive the illegal firearms market. These purchases are the most common channel identified in firearm trafficking investigations and ensuring that they end will help save lives from further gun violence.  

“Minnesota legislators have proven that gun violence prevention is a key priority in the state. Last year they successfully passed both extreme risk protection orders and background checks into law and have only continued to build off this momentum to pass legislation to stop straw purchasing. This bill will prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands and protect Minnesotan communities. Thank you to the sponsors of this bill and Governor Walz for their vital gun violence prevention work.” 

Minnesota joins a growing number of states enacting gun violence prevention measures and their enactment of a straw purchase ban marks a pivotal moment in the state’s ongoing efforts to promote responsible gun ownership, best firearm industry practices, and prevent future gun-related tragedies. 

MEDIA REQUESTS

Our experts can speak to the full spectrum of gun violence prevention issues. Have a question? Email us at media@giffords.org.

Contact