Charles E. Schumer: “Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of H.R. 4296, the ban of 19 specific guns made explicitly for the taking of human life.…”

“Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of H.R. 4296, the ban of 19 specific guns made explicitly for the taking of human life. It seems reasonable, that weapons made for the battlefield stay on the battlefield. Today, however, the battlefield has shifted to the urban and rural warfare on street corners, school yards, and in organized crime. Guns have been part of American folklore and culture from John Wayne to Nat Turner. I would not have supported this bill if it also had not protected over 600 weapons that are commonly used for sport. There are many responsible people for whom hunting and sports shooting are not only recreation, but a way of life. Congress has a great debate ahead over what role guns should play in the future of our society. But today, we face a test of courage greater than any John Wayne shootout. Are we going to act responsibly and in the public's interest or are we going to bow to the king of special interest groups. I urge my colleagues to vote for H.R. 4296.”