Another Letter from Colorado Sen Bennet

Feb 7, 2013

Thank you for contacting me regarding some of the different gun proposals that have
been introduced during the 113th Congress, including S.33 introduced by Senator
Frank Lautenberg, S.150 introduced by Senator Dianne Feinstein, and the proposal put
forth by President Obama. I appreciate hearing from you.

The numerous tragedies that our nation has had to face over the past year have been
staggering. My own family, like all Americans, has been repeatedly shocked and
deeply saddened by the violence we have witnessed, and my heart continues to be with
the victims and their families. As Coloradans, we know how this type of tragedy can
shake a community to its core and in the aftermath of these abhorrent acts our
priority should be on supporting the survivors and families, and healing our
communities.

We must have a real discussion in this country about finding ways to stop these
senseless shootings. I believe a combination of improved access to mental health
services, restrictions on certain weapons intended for warfare, and elimination of
the gun show loophole are sensible steps that can protect our communities and
particularly, our children. In Colorado, we support the right to bear arms and the
ability of people to recreate, hunt, and protect their homes, and we want to keep
the wrong weapons out the hands of the wrong people. I believe we can have a civil
discussion that addresses these issues and as the recommendations by the President's
task force are considered in Congress, we will ensure that Colorado's voices are
heard.

In addition to the bills referenced above, there are a number of different
legislative proposals on gun policy currently before Congress. I am evaluating all
of the different bills, and I will keep your thoughts in mind as we work on this
issue in the Senate. Let us all continue to keep the communities affected by these
tragic acts in our thoughts and prayers.

I value the input of fellow Coloradans in considering the wide variety of important
issues and legislative initiatives that come before the Senate. I hope you will
continue to inform me of your thoughts and concerns.

For more information about my priorities as a U.S. Senator, I invite you to visit my
website at http://bennet.senate.gov/. Again, thank you for contacting me.

Sincerely,

Michael F. Bennet

United States Senator