The Problem

America’s gun violence epidemic continues unabated, with over 45,000 lives lost nationwide to gun murders and suicides each year. Maryland has not been immune to this crisis.

From 2010 to 2019, the overall gun death rate in Maryland increased 15%. Firearms are now the leading cause of death for children and teenagers in Maryland. Easy access to guns, lack of licensing and registration, and weak oversight fuel countless preventable tragedies.

Current federal laws fail to adequately regulate firearms or keep weapons out of dangerous hands. State action is critical. Maryland must pass common-sense gun safety measures to protect our residents.

Maryland has one of the highest rates of gun deaths in the nation, driving life expectancy down and hurting communities. In an average year, 743 people die and 1,363 are wounded by guns in Maryland. Maryland has the 25th-highest rate of gun violence in the US. We clearly need to do more.

This is not just a matter of statistics – behind every number is a lost child, parent, family member or friend. Our moral duty demands action to prevent such senseless violence.

How We Will Solve the Problem Together

As your Senator, I will champion gun policy reforms to reduce firearm deaths in Maryland, focused on:

  • Requiring universal background checks for all gun sales, closing loopholes.
  • Establishing a firearms registry and gun owner licensing.
  • Banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.
  • Increasing oversight and security of existing guns through safe storage laws.
  • Allowing extreme risk protection orders to disarm individuals threatening violence.
  • Allocating more funding for community-based violence intervention programs.

Gun policy should balance Second Amendment rights with responsible, evidence-based public safety measures. The reforms above are widely supported by Marylanders and lawful gun owners.

We must also couple gun law changes with investments in mental health resources, community policing, and economic opportunities in the neighborhoods most impacted by violence. The roots of violence run deep.

How We Will Advance the Issue in Washington, DC and Maryland

In Congress, I will vote for federal gun reforms like universal background checks and assault weapon bans. But with partisan gridlock, state action is essential.

I will build partnerships with lawmakers across the political spectrum who recognize the urgent need for pragmatic solutions. Gun violence prevention cannot wait for Washington gridlock to ease.

In Maryland, I will build coalitions to pass life-saving bills through the General Assembly. I will also promote local “gun sense candidate” campaigns to elect reform advocates.

And I pledge to uplift the voices of Maryland youth and community leaders impacted by gun violence. Your calls for change will drive our collective action.

The Benefits for America and Maryland

Common-sense gun laws will undoubtedly save lives in Maryland – children’s lives, families’ lives, police officers’ lives.

Implementing proven policies already working in other states is a pragmatic step to reduce suicides, domestic violence deaths, accidental shootings and urban gun crime. We can make progress through responsible bipartisan solutions.

Strengthening oversight while investing in communities will make Maryland a safer place to live, work and attend school. Our future prosperity depends on ending the epidemic of gun violence through compassion and conviction. Together, we will forge a nonpartisan public health approach that affirms the value of every Marylander’s life.