Press Release

Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-07) today voted to pass S. 2938, the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. This legislation recently passed the U.S. Senate with a bipartisan majority and now heads to the President's desk for his signature into law.

"For decades, Congress has followed mass shootings with thoughts, prayers, and inaction," said Representative Ami Bera. "The American people have pleaded for commonsense action to prevent gun violence as we've watched our schools, churches, and grocery stores turn into the sites of mass shootings. Today's historic action by Congress will save lives without infringing on the Constitutional rights of Americans. I salute the bipartisanship of Members of Congress who've worked beyond party lines, and I look forward to President Biden signing this lifesaving bill into law."

This bipartisan legislation takes historic leaps forward to create enhanced background checks, support red flag laws, and provide funding for school safety and mental health. Specifically, the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act will:

• Create enhanced background checks for people under 21;
• Fund state crisis intervention orders and anti-violence community initiatives;
• Clarify the definition of "Federally Licensed Firearms Dealer";
• Protect victims of domestic violence from abusive partners; and
• Invest in programs to expand mental health and supportive services in schools.