NY Congressman Tonko Votes for HR 8, the Gun Background Check Bill

“Today’s vote marks a major turning point in our fight to end America’s gun violence epidemic,” said Tonko. This bill is a first step …..said Tonko. Supported by 90% of Americans, lied Tonko. Congress can and must do more….said Tonko.

According to Tonko’s press release, He says Since its inception, the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) has prevented some 3 million convicted felons, domestic abusers and people with violent histories from purchasing a gun. But what he doesn’t say is that 99% of the 3 million are false positives, and of the 1%, only about 460 people were prosecuted and of that about 209 were convicted, mostly of providing false information.

He also said A recent study found that more than 80 percent of firearms used for criminal purposes were obtained without a background check. Duh Mr. Tonko, criminals don’t go through background checks, they steal guns or buy them on the black market.

He is also a co-sponsor of the new assault weapons ban. more here and here