New York, NY — The Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA) applauds Congress for passing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, the first gun safety bill Congress has passed in almost three decades.

This legislation will increase gun safety, mental health funding, and school safety. Specifically, the bill enhances background checks for purchasers under 21, provides federal funding incentives for states that pass Red Flag laws, and narrows the “boyfriend loophole.”

“We are heartened that after almost three decades of gridlock, Congress has finally taken bipartisan action to address America’s gun violence epidemic and end violent crime. This is a huge victory, but we cannot allow this to be the end,” stated Melanie Roth Gorelick, Senior Vice President of JCPA. “Congress must continue to pass commonsense reforms supported by the vast majority of Americans, especially in light of yesterday’s Supreme Court decision to strike down New York’s concealed carry law.”

The Jewish community has a deep concern for public safety, driven by our belief in the sanctity of life and the commandment against murder. We are committed to a comprehensive approach to confronting gun violence. For decades, the Jewish community has worked to end mass shootings and other types of gun violence. No single solution will prevent all future tragedies, which is why we advocate for a balanced, multipronged approach. The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act is a good start, but there is so much more we must commit to achieving if we are to truly address gun violence in this nation.