For years, gun violence in America has been an ever-growing issue. In the last decade alone, over 1.2 million Americans have been shot, millions more have had to witness the brutal effects of gun violence firsthand, and nearly all of us will know at least one victim of gun violence in our lifetimes. However, according to one Harvard Business School study, states with mandatory waiting periods have an average of 17% fewer gun homicides and 10% fewer gun suicides.
For this reason, I will be introducing legislation to establish a 72-hour waiting period for all firearm transfers in the state of Pennsylvania. Study after study supports the fact that disrupting impulsive acts of violence and self-harm by establishing a waiting period such as this, saves lives and provides the time necessary for individuals to gain perspective and seek necessary help.
The time has come for us to protect our friends and families from this preventable tragedy. By not taking action to prevent the creation of more victims, we are doing a disservice to those we are sworn to serve. I hope to count on your support in taking these necessary steps to make our home safer for those we love.