Trumbull Rep. Rutigliano: CT Gun Bill Doesn't Fix the Problem

Editor's note: Rutigliano has submitted an amended paragraph:

"I am a father of two school age children, I support safe schools and communities for all, and I fully support the Trumbull school security measures currently in front of the Board of Finance. I spent countless hours listening to my constituents. At the end of the day, it is about supporting things that work. We have a responsibility to come up with policies that are right from the beginning, are not reactionary, and give some a false sense of security."

The tragic and unspeakable crime committed on Dec. 14, 2012, has forever changed our state.  In the aftermath we are all left to wonder what could have prevented such a horrific event and how we can stop this from ever happening again.  It is my belief we should look thoroughly at every aspect of this issue including gun control, school safety and most importantly, mental health. 

The current process has been rushed and highly politicized.  That being said there were many aspects of the bill of which I agreed and have supported, including universal background checks for all firearm purchases, increasing penalties for all gun crimes, stronger measures to combat gun trafficking, repealing early release for violent felons and school safety provisions.

Sadly, in my opinion, the final bill does not fix the problem.  It does not address our broken mental health system in a meaningful way. Why would we not investigate the type of mental care, or system intervention, if any, this family received?  And what of the pharmaceutical companies? What effect did prescription drugs have?  These are questions that should be answered. I am at a loss as to why the toxicology reports will remain sealed? 

I am a father of two school age children, I support safe schools and communities for all, and I fully support the Trumbull school security measures currently in front of the Board of Finance. I spent countless hours listening to my constituents. At the end of the day, it is about supporting things that work. We have a responsibility to come up with policies that are right from the beginning, are not reactionary, and give some a false sense of security.

It is my sincere hope that we can continue to work to improve the safety of our community and ensure that those afflicted with mental health are properly treated.

 Connecticut State Rep. Dave Rutigliano, R-Trumbull