Connecticut House Bill HB05397

Connecticut 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/22
• Refer: 3/8/22

Caption

An Act Declaring Gun Violence A Public Health Crisis And Establishing The Office Of Gun Violence Prevention And Advisory Council On Gun Violence Prevention And Intervention.

Impact

The bill's establishment of the Office of Gun Violence Prevention is intended to streamline efforts in addressing gun violence through research, community initiatives, and funding grants for organizations working directly in the impacted communities. By making gun violence data publicly accessible, the bill aims to foster transparency and community involvement in violence prevention strategies. This proactive approach is expected to facilitate collaboration between various stakeholders, including community organizations, law enforcement, and public health experts.

Summary

House Bill 05397 declares gun violence a public health crisis in the state and establishes the Office of Gun Violence Prevention. This office will operate under the Department of Public Health with the goal of significantly decreasing gun violence levels through data collection, community-based prevention programs, and recommendations aimed at mitigating the impact of gun violence on public health. The bill emphasizes an evidence-informed approach, prioritizing initiatives that are effective in reducing gun violence without leading to mass incarceration.

Contention

Notably, the bill introduces the Advisory Council on Gun Violence Prevention and Intervention, which will provide recommendations and guidance to the Office. One point of contention may arise from the bill's focus on public health frameworks as opposed to solely criminal justice responses to gun violence. Critics may argue that prioritizing public health could lead to restrictions on individual rights or may not sufficiently address the root causes of gun violence. Supporters, however, believe that this approach will lead to more sustainable and effective solutions in reducing violence.