Zoe Lofgren: “I oppose the bill before us today, and I think it is worth pointing out that I am joined in this opposition by the…”

“I oppose the bill before us today, and I think it is worth pointing out that I am joined in this opposition by the Violence Policy Center, the National Conference of State Legislatures, Handgun Control, as well as the attorney general of the State of California. This so-called small business liability reform bill offered by the gentleman from California (Mr. Rogan) is not really about small businesses at all. In fact, the businesses may be quite big, making millions and millions of dollars and still be protected by this bill. It is only judged small by the number of employees. Interestingly enough, it turns out that the manufacturers of most of the guns that have caught our attention in the tragedies that have beset this Nation, for example, the horrible shootings in Columbine, were in fact manufactured by gun companies that fall below the 25- employee limit, who would be, if this bill were to pass, immune from liability. That liability is now being pursued by a number of local governments. For example, back home, the county of San Mateo and the city of Los Angeles are pursuing lawsuits against gun manufacturers and dealers to try and assess the responsibility for wrong behavior. Unfortunately, this bill would put those lawsuits out of court. I do not think that is the right thing to do. I do not think that is the right thing for this Congress to do.”