Angie Craig: “as most of our colleagues know, we are now on S. 397, the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Firearms Act. There is an…”

“as most of our colleagues know, we are now on S. 397, the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Firearms Act. There is an amendment on the Senate floor for consideration at this moment. Cloture on the bill has been filed. What I thought I might do is take a few moments to discuss some of the differences between S. 397, the one currently on the Senate floor, and S. 1805, the previous version of the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Firearms Act, which was considered in the Senate in the 108th Congress. Language has been added in this version to address developing issues or concerns expressed last Congress, garnering more support and adding more cosponsors on both sides. As I announced this morning and submitted for the Record, we now have 61 cosponsors including myself. In some cases, the changes are just technical in their character. But before I get to the changes, let me assure my colleagues that these changes do not alter the essential purpose and effect of the bill. As we have stressed repeatedly, this legislation will not bar the courthouse doors to victims who have been harmed by the negligence or misdeeds of anyone in the gun industry. Well recognized causes of action are protected by the bill. Plaintiffs can still argue their cases for violations of law, breach of warranty, and knowing transfers to dangerous persons.…”