GIFFORDS applauds Connecticut Senate for passage of landmark gun industry accountability law

WASHINGTON — GIFFORDS, the national gun violence prevention organization led by former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, released the following statement after the Connecticut Senate passed the Firearm Industry Responsibility Act, sending the bill to Governor Lamont to be signed.

The legislation holds the gun industry accountable for its business practices by requiring sellers and manufacturers to establish and enforce “reasonable controls” that prevent their products from falling into the hands of criminals. Additionally, the bill would provide victims of gun violence avenues to remedy harm through civil court when gun sellers and manufactures act irresponsibly.

“Communities across Connecticut will be much safer thanks to passage of this bill,” said GIFFORDS Executive Director Emma Brown. “For too long, a small number of gun sellers have enriched themselves by illegally arming criminals, aiding gun traffickers and ignoring public safety. This legislation will provide a critical path for holding the gun industry accountable for the lives lost for their profit margins. We would like to thank Senators Looney and Duff and Senator Winfield and Representative Stafstrom for their support for this important legislation, and Connecticut Against Gun Violence for their work to get this bill across the finish line.”