Georgia Lawmakers Pursue Gun Safety Measures
House Bill 971 Progresses and Bipartisan Support in the House
According to News Channel 9, in Atlanta, Georgia, lawmakers are pushing forward with efforts to enhance gun safety through House Bill 971 which could provide a financial incentive for responsible gun ownership. If passed, this legislation would grant Georgia citizens the option to receive a $300 tax credit that can be utilized for either safe gun storage or firearm training. Supported by both parties in the House of Representatives, the bill garnered overwhelming approval with 161 yeas signaling bipartisan recognition of the importance of promoting gun safety practices.
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Lawmakers Advocate for Gun Safety Measures
Representative Scott Hilton, a proponent of the bill, emphasizes the potential impact on protecting Georgia’s children, particularly in school settings. By encouraging responsible gun ownership at home, Hilton believes the state can take significant strides toward fostering safer school environments. With statistics from Sandy Hook Promise revealing that over 300,000 U.S. students have been affected by gun violence at school since the Columbine High School shooting, and an estimated 4.6 million children residing in homes with loaded and unlocked firearms, the need for proactive measures to enhance gun safety is evident. While House Bill 971 represents just one aspect of broader efforts to address gun-related issues in Georgia, Representative Mark Newton underscores its significance as an added gun safety precaution for those who choose to participate. Newton highlights ongoing efforts to tackle mental health concerns and reduce incidents of suicide and accidental shootings alongside the pressing need to address homicides particularly those stemming from gang-related activities and stolen firearms. As discussions continue on multiple gun-related bills, the focus remains on enhancing safety measures to protect the well-being of Georgia’s citizens especially its children.
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