Porter Goss: “today's discussion presents a unique legislative situation. While technically H.R. 4296 is a free-standing bill, there…”

“today's discussion presents a unique legislative situation. While technically H.R. 4296 is a free-standing bill, there are many strings attached. The fact is, H.R. 4296 is a vehicle for this House to clearly state its will on a selective assault weapon ban, not to tinker with the fine print of such a proposal. I understand the benefits of focusing on the broad philosophical issue: Will this ban on selected assault weapons help to reduce violent crime in our communities? Statistics and evidentiary experience show the answer is no. But this rule precludes discussion of the other half of this crucial question: Wouldn't the guarantee of tougher penalties do more to reduce violent crime in our communities? I am convinced the answer to that question is a resounding yes. Many of us who feel this selective gun ban will prove ineffective in combating crime believe very strongly that tough and consistent penalties for abuse of firearms will work. Yet, under this rule, the House is denied the chance to debate Mr. McCollum's proposal to ensure tough, mandatory, minimum sentences for possession and use of guns in the commission of a crime. Most law enforcement officials tell us that assault weapons are not the key to crime in this country--in fact, even proponents of this bill know that assault weapons are responsible for only a small fraction of all violent crimes.…”