In the wake of the 2015 Emanuel AME Church shooting that claimed nine lives, organizations in South Carolina are rallying to close the Charleston loophole that allows gun buyers to acquire firearms before federal background checks are completed. This loophole, which directly enabled the shooter to obtain a weapon despite a disqualifying background, has sparked renewed urgency among groups like Moms Demand Action, as state lawmakers debate the proposed legislation aimed at strengthening firearm safety.
Angela Ferrel-Zabala, Executive Director of Moms Demand Action, emphasizes the necessity of this reform, noting that 90% of background checks clear rapidly, while those requiring longer investigations are four times more likely to be denied. As the 10-year mark approaches since the tragic shooting, advocates urge legislators to prioritize closing this gap to protect communities from gun violence and the rise of extremism. The legislative committee is currently reviewing a bill that could transform this critical aspect of gun law enforcement.
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