Following a recent Supreme Court ruling, President Joe Biden has made a public plea to Congress to outlaw bump stocks.
According to Breitbart, President Biden's proposal comes in the wake of the Supreme Court striking down previous administrative restrictions on these firearm accessories.
The president voiced his concern via a post on a platform referred to as X, emphasizing that mere condolences are insufficient and compelling legislative action is necessary. His statement advocates for stricter regulations including a definitive ban on bump stocks, extension of assault weapon prohibition, and comprehensive measures to confront gun violence.
These judicial reversals are not isolated incidents. The Biden administration’s attempts to enforce gun control through regulatory channels have faced significant obstacles. Several significant rules implemented by the ATF have been legally contested and overturned, reflecting a growing judicial pushback against administrative firearms regulations.
Specifically, on June 12 and 13, 2024, Breitbart News reported on the preliminary injunction against the ATF's rule on background checks and the subsequent vacating of the universal background check rule. The controversy underscored the ongoing challenge to establish consistent federal gun control policies.
Rulings such as these culminated in a critical decision on June 14, 2023, when the Supreme Court invalidated the ATF’s ban on bump stocks, highlighting a pivotal moment in the national discourse on gun control.
In response to these setbacks, President Biden’s post on X not only criticized the Supreme Court's recent decision but also called for an immediate and strong legislative response from Congress. He implored lawmakers to pass a range of gun control measures aimed at enhancing public safety.
The president stated, "Today’s Supreme Court decision strikes down an important gun safety regulation. We know thoughts and prayers are not enough. I call on Congress to ban bump stocks, pass an assault weapon ban, and take action to save lives – send me a bill and I will sign it immediately."
In his extended remarks, Biden reiterated the commitment of his administration to resist these judicial rollbacks through continued action, emphasizing past efforts to curb gun violence.
The President highlighted, "Notwithstanding this decision, my administration will continue to take action. I took on the NRA and signed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act — the most significant gun violence reduction legislation to pass Congress in nearly 30 years. Continuing on, "Gun Violence Prevention, made historical investments in mental health to support people in times of crisis, and expanded background checks to keep firearms out of the wrong hands."
The call for more comprehensive gun regulations has ignited a variety of opinions among the public and lawmakers alike. While supporters argue that such measures are crucial for preventing future tragedies, opponents often point to potential overreach and the encroachment on constitutional rights.
Commentators such as AWR Hawkins of Breitbart have articulated concerns over rules like universal background checks, suggesting they could lead to a gun registry.
Despite these diverging viewpoints, the urgency of President Biden’s message highlights a critical junction in America’s ongoing debate over gun control. As Congress considers his call for action, the nation watches closely, awaiting legislative responses that could reshape the landscape of American gun laws.
