GIFFORDS Applauds New Delaware Law Requiring a Permit to Purchase a Handgun
Washington DC — Today, Delaware Governor John Carney signed into law a commonsense requirement for gun owners to obtain a permit before purchasing a handgun. Those who don’t already have a concealed carry permit will need to complete an approved firearm training course within five years, ensuring responsible gun ownership.
Commonsense gun safety laws like permits to purchase handguns have been proven to reduce gun violence. When Connecticut passed its licensing law, its gun homicide rate decreased by 28% and its gun suicide rate decreased by 33%. Delaware is now the 12th state to require a permit to purchase a gun.
GIFFORDS, the national gun violence prevention organization founded by former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, applauded Governor Carney, Senate President David Sokola, Senate Majority Leader Bryan Townsend, and House Speaker Valerie Longhurst for their leadership on gun safety.
Sean Holihan, GIFFORDS State Legislative Director
“We’ve been working with advocates and legislators in Delaware for years to pass this critical gun safety measure, and I’m thankful for their commitment to getting this done. A permit to purchase a handgun will help promote responsible gun ownership, strengthen background checks, and ultimately save lives. More state legislatures should follow Delaware’s lead.”Senate Bill 2, sponsored by Senate Majority Whip Tizzy Lockman and House Majority Leader Melissa Minor-Brown, requires fingerprint-based state and federal background checks.
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