Connecticut Legislature Passes Gun Control Package

The Connecticut General Assembly approved an emergency certified bill early this morning that makes sweeping changes to Connecticut’s gun laws in response to the Sandy Hook Elementary school tragedy. The legislation, which largely focused on gun control, also includes initiatives for school safety and mental health.    

The hard fought for package was applauded by many, but Rep. Marilyn Giuliano, (23rd District-Lyme, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook and Westbrook) thinks it missed the mark. 
“This legislation represents a missed opportunity,” said Rep. Giuliano, who works as a professional school psychologist and who voted against the bill.  “If the intent is to prevent another Sandy Hook tragedy, then this legislation should have targeted substantive improvements to mental health access and treatment that are necessary to identify and deter the actions of the criminally insane.” 

Some of the law changes include:          

• Ban sales of high-capacity ammunition magazines          
  
• Background checks for private gun sales         
• New registry for existing magazines that carry more than 10 rounds
• Statewide dangerous weapon offender registry      
• Immediate universal background checks for all firearms sales    
• Expansion of CT’s assault weapons ban        
• Require eligibility certificate to purchase any rifle, shotgun or ammunition        
• Expands requirements for safe storage of firearms          
• Increases penalties for firearms trafficking and illegal possession offenses.