Take Action: Tell the Senate to Vote for Renewing the Assault Weapons Ban (S.736)

Thanks to emails and phone calls from constituents, Congress is finally passing legislation to prevent gun violence. In June, the President signed the Safer Communities Act which enhances background checks for gun buyers under 21, increases community gun violence prevention efforts, and strengthens some of the protections to prevent domestic abusers from obtaining firearms.

The bill to renew the assault weapons ban (S.736) has passed the House and now needs support and a floor vote in the Senate.

Gun massacre deaths in the United States have tripled since the assault weapons ban lapsed in 2004. The use of high-velocity weapons and large capacity magazines makes these tragic incidents more deadly; perpetrators are able to shoot more victims before being detained and those injured are more likely to die from their wounds.

The lack of U.S. legislation on this issue affects communities beyond our borders as well. After the previous ban lapsed, Mexican municipalities bordering states with legal assault weapons sales reported increased levels of gun homicides.

Christians must act to protect the sanctity of life. As followers of Jesus called to live into the reality of God’s dream of shalom as described by Micah 4, we must address the epidemic of gun violence so “that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in God’s paths.” Therefore, we call upon United Methodists to prayerfully address gun violence (2016 Book of Resolutions, #3428).