Virginia lawmakers are advancing a proposal to establish a state firearm violence intervention and prevention center, a response to over 1,200 firearm-related deaths in the state last year alone, with over half classified as suicides. Sponsored by Delegate Cia Price, the center is intended to be a resource for research and best practices to reduce gun violence while also distributing grants to local organizations focused on prevention.
The proposed center has garnered some bipartisan support but faces opposition from gun-rights groups concerned about potential restrictions on ownership. With gun-related deaths accounting for more than $14 billion in costs annually in Virginia, advocates argue that the center could play a vital role in addressing the public health emergency posed by gun violence. Supporters urge lawmakers to see this initiative as a chance for collaboration aimed at saving lives.
Read full story at virginiamercury.com
