PARKLAND, Fla. – Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris arrived in Parkland on Monday and called on states to adopt red-flag gun laws in an effort to prevent gun violence. Harris, who was accompanied by Democratic Congressional leaders, met with local officials and families affected by the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.
Speaking at a roundtable discussion, Harris emphasized the need for stronger gun control measures, stating that red-flag laws could be “a heroic act” to save lives. These laws allow for the temporary removal of firearms from individuals deemed to pose a risk to themselves or others, following a court order.
The visit coincided with the third anniversary of the Parkland shooting, which claimed the lives of seventeen students and staff members. The tragedy became a catalyst for nationwide calls for stricter gun regulations, with survivors leading the charge.
However, the implementation of red-flag laws varies across the United States, with 19 states and Washington, D.C. having enacted such legislation. Harris urged other states to follow suit and hailed Florida’s red-flag law, enacted after the Parkland shooting, as a model for the nation.
During the meeting, Harris listened to the stories of survivors, parents, and community members directly affected by gun violence. She acknowledged the emotional toll and trauma endured by these individuals and pledged her commitment to combating gun violence.
While Harris advocated for red-flag laws, she also emphasized the importance of implementing comprehensive gun control measures. She expressed support for universal background checks and closing the “Charleston loophole,” which allows for firearms to be sold without completed background checks if the check takes longer than three days.
The push for gun control legislation faces significant opposition in Congress, with Republicans generally opposing stricter regulations. However, President Joe Biden has called for stronger gun laws and urged Congress to take action. Harris’s visit to Parkland highlights the administration’s commitment to addressing gun violence and their push for bipartisan efforts to prevent further tragedies.