House passed assault-weapon ban; will Senate step up?

To the Editor:

It is with a sense of hope and great relief that I extend my appreciation to the Rhode Island House of Representatives for its courage in helping to pass H 5436A last evening (Thursday, June 5). This bill and vote by the RI House bring us a step closer to creating a safer Rhode Island for all residents, particularly our children. The bill would restrict the purchasing and ownership of assault-style weapons, which have caused enormous grief and agony in our country. 

No one legislative act can guarantee the end of mass murders, but this bill would reduce the ability and probability of one taking place in our state. The communities of Sandy Hook, Lewiston, Maine and Orlando, Florida, along with many others, are still experiencing the pain and grief of mass shootings. These weapons are responsible for most mass murders in America. Now, Rhode Island, along with our sister states of Connecticut and Massachusetts, have consciously and bravely chosen life over personal privilege. 

We now need the Rhode Island Senate to demonstrate its courage and care by passing Senate Bill S359. 

Tom Wojick

Cranston