Us Congress House Bill HR348

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/2/23
• Refer: 5/2/23
• Refer: 5/5/23

Caption

Declaring gun violence a public health crisis.

Impact

The declaration of gun violence as a public health crisis carries potential implications for state and local laws. This recognition could lead to increased funding for violence prevention programs, as well as support for community initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of gun violence. Additionally, by framing gun violence as a public health issue, states may be inclined to adopt stricter regulations on firearms and improve support systems for affected communities. This could lead to a significant shift in how gun violence is approached legislatively, resulting in enhanced collaboration between health and safety agencies.

Summary

House Resolution 348 declares gun violence a public health crisis in the United States. The resolution recognizes gun violence as a growing threat, emphasizing the alarming statistics surrounding deaths and injuries resulting from firearms, particularly among children and marginalized communities. The bill calls for extensive governmental actions to tackle this issue, including the urging of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to enhance their research efforts regarding gun violence prevention strategies. Through a whole-of-government approach, the resolution seeks to mobilize resources and attention across various departments to mitigate the threats posed by gun violence.

Contention

While the bill presents a unified front in addressing gun violence, it is likely to face contention from various stakeholders. Proponents may argue that the resolution signifies a necessary acknowledgment of the societal crisis posed by gun violence and the need for immediate action. However, opponents, particularly those concerned with gun rights, may view such a declaration as an encroachment on personal freedoms and Second Amendment rights. The dynamics of this debate could influence how local and state governments respond to the resolution, particularly in regions with strong pro-gun sentiments.