For Immediate Release:
Thursday, October 20, 2005

WASHINGTON D.C - U.S. Representative Dan Boren voted today in support of legislation to prevent firearm manufacturers from being held responsible for the acts of criminals.  The Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (S. 397) is among the National Rifle Association and many business groups’ top priorities before Congress.  Boren cosponsored the legislation in the House.

 

“This is a common sense bill that holds criminals accountable for their crimes, not the companies that make and sell firearms,” Boren said. 

 

Since 1998, dozens of lawsuits have been filed against America's firearm industry in an effort to hold them responsible for the actions of those who obtain their products with malicious intent.  Manufacturers have spent more than $200 million protecting themselves against these claims even though none resulted in a guilty verdict.

 

“Though some Americans may obtain guns to commit crimes, the vast majority of them are used by sportsmen, law enforcement officers and our men and women in uniform,” Boren said.  “I support locking up those who illegally use a gun, not punishing sportsmen and law abiding citizens.”

 

“As a gun owner and life member of the NRA, I firmly believe in the Second Amendment,” Boren said.  “I will always uphold Oklahomans’ right to protect and defend themselves and their families.”

 

S. 397 passed the House 283-144.  It passed the Senate 65-31 on July 29.  The bill now moves to the President where it is expected to quickly be signed into law.

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