New Jersey legislators were voting on six measures to tighten gun laws in the state on Monday, two days after nationwide student marches calling for stronger gun regulations.
The measures being voted on in Trenton included bills to reduce magazine capacity, ban armor-piercing bullets, make it tougher to obtain a permit to carry a handgun, and two to keep firearms out of the hands of people with mental health issues, NJ Advance Media reported.
Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy, who campaigned on making gun laws tougher when he was elected to replace Republican Chris Christie in November, has promised to sign the bills into law if they reach his desk.
The "March for Our Lives" rallies on Saturday took place at many locations around the country, including Newark. Murphy spoke at that event, according to NJ Advance Media.
"Today we marched in memory of Parkland," Murphy said. "But, we will act in the name of every family and every community in our state that has been touched by gun violence, and the many more who wish to remain safe.”
"The thousands of young people who came together today -- and the many adults who joined them -- have changed the conversation. We must listen to them and act to ensure a better, safer future for every New Jerseyan."
The National Rifle Association's Institute for Legislative Action last week issued a statement against the New Jersey measures, urging state residents to call their legislators and voice their opposition.
"Despite having some of the harshest gun laws in the country, new Gov. Phil Murphy has made gun control a top priority," the NRA said. "Trenton's appetite for gun control is insatiable, and it's important that NRA members continue contacting their Assembly members, respectfully insisting a 'no' vote. …”
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