WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) issued the following statement on President Biden’s announcement of a new Executive Order bolstering background checks, “red flag” laws, accountability for the gun industry, and law enforcement efforts to identify and apprehend shooters.

"President Biden’s Executive Order is a vital step forward in Democrats’ mission to save lives, reduce gun violence, and build safer communities for all Americans. 

“We’ve long known that these commonsense reforms – from stronger background checks to 'red flag' laws – are vital to ending the scourge of gun violence. But for years, Republican obstruction and allegiance to the gun lobby have stood in the way of urgently needed action – costing thousands of lives. President Biden’s announcement sends a clear message: No more – we are putting American lives over politics. 

“The Monterey Park shooting was a horrific reminder of the daily violence that continues to claim lives and traumatize families across the country. Every day, 111 Americans are shot and killed – including five children. We have a responsibility to forge a future where nobody has to look over their shoulder at work, at school, or while gathered with loved ones.”