Violence Policy Center Launches Web Site to Aid Citywide Effort to Stop Congressional Repeal of DC Handgun Ban

Web Site Asks �If The U.S. Capitol Can be Handgun Free, Why Can�t DC?�

Washington, DC--The Violence Policy Center (VPC) today launched a new web site to aid citywide efforts to stop Congressional repeal of the Washington, DC, handgun ban and other District gun laws. The web site�http://www.handgunfreedc.org�contains background information on efforts to repeal the District�s landmark law, information on the ban�s effectiveness, and a downloadable placard to be displayed in the windows of homes and businesses that reads, �Keep the DC Handgun Ban. If the U.S. Capitol Can be Handgun Free, Why Can�t DC? �

Legislation to repeal the District of Columbia�s longstanding laws banning handguns and assault weapons has been reintroduced in the United States Senate (S. 1082) and House (H.R. 1288). Similar legislation failed last Congress. This new assault on the District�s landmark gun laws represents a direct threat to the safety and security of DC residents, businesses, tourists, and public officials. The legislation would allow the uncontrolled proliferation of handguns, assault weapons, and even 50 caliber anti-armor sniper rifles.

VPC Legislative Director Kristen Rand states, �To think that at the same time that DC is being turned into a virtual fortress there are Members of the U.S. House and Senate who want to allow handguns, assault weapons, and even semiautomatic 50 caliber sniper rifles to be sold and transported throughout the city is sheer lunacy. If Congress truly believes the rhetoric used by proponents of the bill, then it should take the lead and repeal the ban on guns in the U.S. Capitol and Congressional office buildings.�

The Violence Policy Center is a national non-profit educational foundation that conducts research on violence in America and works to develop violence-reduction policies and proposals. The Center examines the role of firearms in America, conducts research on firearms violence, and explores new ways to decrease firearm-related death and injury.