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Chaffetz Voices Concern Over the Mentally Ill and Access to Firearms

Courtesy of Congressman Jason Chaffetz

Utah Republican Congressman Jason Chaffetz is voicing his concern over connections between gun violence and those suffering from mental illness.  Chaffetz is one of the only Republican lawmakers in the U-S House to participate in a public discussion about reducing gun violence since the mass shooting in Newtown, Connecticut last week.  He says he’s most concerned about weapons being available to those with mental health issues.

“I am concerned that there are things that we could do, particularly as it relates to those suffering or struggling with mental illness.  I want to make sure that they not only get the help, but also that we identify those problems and a lot of that is really going to happen more at the local level,” said Chaffetz.

Chaffetz does not support banning assault weapons or restricting the access of firearms to those who obey the law.  But he does plan to use the resources of the House Judiciary Committee to explore legislative ways to reduce gun violence.

“I’m one that’s willing to engage in that discussion and I’d like to actually see there be some action at the end of the day,” said Chaffetz.

One of the Newtown shooting victims, 6-year-old Emilie Parker, will be laid to rest in her home town of Ogden on Saturday.  

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