Senate Democrats unveiled plans on Thursday for gun control reforms that include closing background check loopholes, expanding the background check database and tightening regulations on illegal gun purchases.
The calls follow last week's mass shooting at an Oregon community college.
Republicans controlling Congress have shown scant interest in restricting guns and the Democratic effort has little chance of success. But their drive could keep the issue alive during next year’s elections, driving up support from sympathetic voters and contributors while complicating GOP senators’ re-election campaigns in some closely divided states.
The push is being led by Senators Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., who on Wednesday sent a letter to their Senate colleagues outlining the proposals.
The Democratic senators' first proposal calls for closing a loophole that allows people to buy guns online and at gun shows without undergoing the background checks that are required at big retail stores and small gun shops.
A second change would ensure that people are not allowed to buy guns without a completed background check. In some states, gun buyers can take their firearms home from the store while waiting for a background check to be finished.
People convicted of domestic abuse – whether against a spouse or someone they are dating – would be banned from buying guns.
