LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – In an attempt to keep communities safe from gun violence, Michigan Democratic Attorney General Dana Nessel has thrown her weight behind a multistate coalition of 21 state attorneys general advocating for stricter regulations on the sale of firearms.
This coalition recently filed an amicus brief in U.S. v. Steven Perez, defending federal laws that require the involvement of licensed firearms dealers when transporting or receiving guns across state lines. The brief was submitted to the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit.
Standing firm on public safety.
“Enforcing sensible regulations on the transfer and sale of firearms across state lines is crucial to safeguarding our communities against gun violence and bolstering state laws,” Nessel stated. The coalition’s position is that these federal regulations are not only aligned with the Second Amendment but are also essential for protecting public safety and supporting effective law enforcement efforts.
The case in question.
The case revolves around Steven Perez, who, in 2020, acquired guns from an unlicensed dealer in South Carolina and had them transported to New York City. Perez was subsequently arrested, prosecuted, and sentenced to prison in New York. He is now appealing his conviction, arguing that the federal regulations violated his Second Amendment rights.
The coalition argues that the existing laws are vital for preventing the illegal distribution of firearms, reducing violent crime, and aiding law enforcement in tracking down gun-related offenses. In 17 states, licensed firearms dealers are required to maintain detailed records of their inventory and sales, which plays a crucial role in investigations.
Nessel’s ongoing fight for gun safety.
Since taking office in 2019, Nessel has been a strong advocate for gun safety. Her efforts include supporting a federal ban on handgun sales to individuals under 21, increasing accountability for gun manufacturers, and combating the proliferation of ghost guns. She has also been instrumental in passing legislation that strengthens background checks, enforces safe storage standards, and introduces Extreme Risk Protection Orders.
A nationwide effort.
Nessel is joined in this legal effort to fortify gun sale regulations by attorneys general from across the nation, including those from California, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, and Washington, among others. Together, they are committed to upholding laws that keep firearms out of the wrong hands and enhance public safety across state lines.
Leave a Comment
COMMENTS POLICY: We have no tolerance for messages of violence, racism, vulgarity, obscenity or other such discourteous behavior. Thank you for contributing to a respectful and useful online dialogue.