Rep. Stevens Votes to Keep America's Communities and Kids Safe

Press Release

Today, Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI) voted in support of bipartisan legislation that takes common sense steps to protect American communities from the scourge of gun violence and expand mental health resources for those in crisis.

"This historic bill will help states pass red flag laws -- which 72% of Americans support -- put billions into mental health aid, stop domestic abusers from getting guns, support evidence-based school security, criminalize gun trafficking, and build new safeguards for under 21-year-old gun buyers," said Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI). "Further, this bill allocates $250 million in new dollars for anti-violence community initiatives and has the support of groups ranging from Moms Demand Action to the Fraternal Order of Police. I am grateful for my colleagues in the House and Senate who worked diligently and in good faith to get this lifesaving bill across the finish line."

Key provisions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act:

Support for State Crisis Intervention Orders: Creates $750 million for states to create and administer laws that will ensure deadly weapons are kept out of the hands of individuals determined by a court

Protections for Victims of Domestic Violence by Closing the Boyfriend Loophole: Adds convicted domestic violence abusers in dating relationships to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System

Penalties for Straw Purchasing: Creates federal straw purchasing and gun trafficking criminal offenses, allowing prosecutors to target dangerous illegal gunrunners

Clarified Definition of Federally Licensed Firearms Dealer: Cracks down on criminals who illegally evade licensing requirements and clarifies which sellers need to register, conduct background checks, and keep appropriate records

Enhanced Background Checks for People Under 21:Requires an investigative period to review juvenile and mental health records, including checks with state databases and local law enforcement, for buyers under 21 years of age, creating an enhanced, longer background check of up to ten days

Anti-Violence Community Initiatives: Provides $250 million in funding for community-based violence prevention initiatives

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