Landmark Gun Safety Bill Backed By Rep. Tom Malinowski

UNION COUNTY, NJ — U.S. Rep. Tom Malinowski (NJ-7) voted "yes" to pass a sweeping gun control bill designed to restrict gun access to those who pose a risk to their communities.

The bill was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on Friday by a margin of 234-193, with 14 Republicans joining the Democrats. Malinowski, who represents Union County towns including Westfield, Cranford, Summit, Scotch Plains and more, voted in favor of the bill.

Read more: Bipartisan Gun Violence Bill 1st Significant Curb On Guns In 29 Years

The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which also passed in the Senate, is now headed to President Joe Biden's desk, who is expected to sign it into law. The bill would strengthen background checks for the youngest firearm buyers, expand the definition of a gun seller and impose new penalties on gun traffickers.

It also provides about $15 billion to states and local communities to improve school safety and fund mental health initiatives.

In addition, the bill would invest $250 million in community violence intervention and prevention initiatives, as well as $100 million to help the National Criminal Instant Background Check System continue the work of keeping guns out of dangerous hands.

The passage of the bill also comes a day after the Supreme Court struck down a New York law that placed strict restrictions on carrying firearms outside the home.

Read more: New York Gun Law Overturned By U.S. Supreme Court In Major Ruling

Malinowski has been outspoken about his support for gun reform.

Earlier this month, the congressman said in a statement: “There have been more than 240 mass shootings in the United States in the first five months of this year. This isn’t normal; it doesn’t happen in other countries; and it doesn’t have to be this way here. As members of Congress, we were sent here to do something about it, not just to mourn or pray."

The legislation got a stamp of approval from all of New Jersey's Democratic congressional members. This includes Donald Norcross, Andy Kim, Josh Gottheimer, Frank Pallone, Malinowski, Albio Sires, Bill Pascrell Jr., Donald Payne Jr., Mikie Sherrill and Bonnie Watson Coleman.

However, New Jersey's two GOP House members — Jeff Van Drew and Chris Smith — voted "no" on the bill.

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