NC Cooper Calls for Action on Key Public Safety Bills

Raleigh -- Aug 5, 2019 -- Press Release NC Governor Roy Cooper shared the following statement calling on HB86 and HB454 to be considered after the weekend’s tragic shootings in El Paso and Dayton.

“The time for condolences alone has long passed, and now it is time for action. The General Assembly should move quickly to debate the details of these bills so that we can end up with legislation to keep deadly weapons out of the wrong hands. I am also directing my administration to ensure we are doing what’s needed to try to prevent these tragic events.”

HB86, the Gun Violence Prevention Act, includes several provisions to improve background checks and encourage safe and responsible gun ownership. HB454, Allow ERPOs to Save Lives & Prevent Suicides, would create Extreme Risk Protection Orders, sometimes called a red flag law, and authorize family members and law enforcement to petition a court to restrict an individual’s access to firearms if there is evidence that person poses a danger to themselves or others. Fifteen states have already enacted this type of law.

Both HB86 and HB454 have been referred to the House Judiciary Committee. Neither bill has had a hearing.

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