Assault Weapons Ban Dropped from Initial Gun Control Package
OutdoorHub Reporters 03.19.13
Lawmakers decided to leave the 2013 Assault Weapons Ban out of a gun control bill destined for the Senate because of heavy opposition to the ban. According to CBS News, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D- NV) made the announcement on Tuesday.
“I have said time and time again I want people to have the ability to vote on assault weapons, mental health, safety in schools, federal trafficking, clips–everything,” Reid told the press. “But I cannot do that until I get a bill on the floor.”
The Assault Weapons Ban passed the Senate Judiciary Committee last week but lawmakers recognize that it has only minimal support inside the senate. It remains the most controversial of the four bills passed in that hearing and has polarized both sides of the political aisle. The ban may be offered later as an amendment to the bill that Reid brings to the senate floor.
Senator Feinstein is reportedly upset with the decision, but remains supportive of the ban.
“I very much regret it,” she informed reporters. “I tried my best.”
While the “assault weapons” legislation is seemingly shelved on the federal level, states are still pushing forward with their own bills. Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper is set to make a decision Wednesday on whether or not he signs House Bill 1224, which will limit magazine capacity in the state. The decision could force gun parts manufacturer Magpul to leave the state.
