April 2, 2013

BLACK AND PUERTO RICAN CAUCUS CHAIR
SAYS GUN BILL NEEDS TO FOCUS ON CITIES

The state legislature’s Black and Puerto Rican Caucus (B&PRC), headed by Chair State Rep. Juan Candelaria, called an agreement on gun-control legislation reached by legislative leaders a mostly positive step towards eliminating gun violence.

“While the gun legislation proposal being discussed now provides some balance and a good starting point that we stand to support, it can be improved with changes to benefit the urban cities that suffer from a disproportionate share of gun related violence,” said Candelaria.

The proposed measure covers several concepts that were addressed at public hearings and, according to members of the B&PRC, a fair compromise has been crafted. Universal background checks, expanding Connecticut’s assault weapons ban, banning the sale or purchase of large capacity magazines, a statewide dangerous weapon offender registry and restrictions on the use of those currently owned are all provisions supported by the group.

Candelaria noted, “The B&PRC is still concerned about a few key components that can be improved upon to have a more positive impact on our urban communities, particularly as it relates to gun violence prevention among those 18 years old and younger - enforcement of the new law, prevention programs and funding for gun trafficking enforcement.”

The group offered the following ideas to address their concerns:

• Statewide law enforcement funding must be allocated to ensure the new measures will be fully implemented and allocating adequate funds to the gun trafficking task force should be part of the conversation.

• An effective gun violence prevention program such as the Violence Free Zones must be implemented to help youngsters stay out of trouble, increase their academic performance and reduce police intervention in these designated zones.

• The new measure should include a provision, such as a separate class distinction of penalties, to address first time teen offenders without criminal records.

Candelaria said, “Violence is rampant on our city streets and we have to take action to halt its impact. We recognize the sensitivity of this conversation, but we also have to do our part to protect our children, families and communities.”

The B&PRC is a group of legislators from the House and Senate.