Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB7272

Introduced
2/7/24  

Caption

Shining a Spotlight on Safer Communities Act

Impact

If enacted, HB7272 will require the Attorney General to prepare detailed reports every year from 2024 to 2027. These reports will include comprehensive reviews of the investigations and prosecutions resulting from new provisions that enhance legal safeguards against gun trafficking and improve access to mental health services. The bill aims to provide clear data on the effectiveness of the implemented measures, which will help shape further policy decisions and enforcement strategies regarding gun safety and violence prevention.

Summary

House Bill 7272, titled the 'Shining a Spotlight on Safer Communities Act', seeks to enhance accountability and transparency regarding the implementation of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. Introduced on February 7, 2024, the bill mandates annual reports on the progress and outcomes related to the reforms initiated under the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. This legislation is rooted in the urgent need to address rising gun violence, particularly among children and teens, highlighting the fact that firearms are a leading cause of death within this demographic in the United States.

Contention

While the bill is seen by its proponents as a critical step towards improving public safety and addressing the gun violence epidemic, there may be contention surrounding the adequacy of the reporting process and the effectiveness of the measures outlined in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act itself. Critics might argue that without actionable reforms beyond mere reporting, the bill risks becoming a token effort that does not adequately address the root causes of gun violence or the disparities in community safety. Additionally, there could be discussions on resource allocation for these reports, given the limitation of authorized appropriations set at $2 million per fiscal year.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB7039

Stronger Communities through Better Transit Act

US HB7799

Caribbean Arms Trafficking Causing Harm Act CATCH Act

US HB7265

Child Suicide Prevention and Lethal Means Safety Act

US HB1010

BADGES for Native Communities Act Bridging Agency Data Gaps and Ensuring Safety for Native Communities Act

US SB4067

CATCH Act Caribbean Arms Trafficking Causing Harm Act

US HB8574

340B ACCESS Act 340B Affording Care for Communities and Ensuring a Strong Safety-net Act

US SB3784

Preserving Homes and Communities Act of 2024

US SB3867

Livable Communities Act of 2024

US HB7134

Invest in Child Safety Act of 2024

US HB7308

VICTIM Act of 2024 Violent Incident Clearance and Technological Investigative Methods Act of 2024

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.