It appears the Washington state House is struggling to push their proposal to expand background checks to private sales. On Monday they were forced to delay deliberations until at least today after they fell just a handful of votes short that would have ensured its passage.
The disruption comes despite a strong lobbying effort which included a call from Gabrielle Giffords, the former US Congresswoman that suffered a gunshot wound to the head during a shooting rampage in 2011.
Rep. Maureen Walsh, a Republican from Walla Walla who initially supported the measure withdrew her support for the bill, later stating that she acted in a reactionary way, and now doesn't feel that it's passage would help stop gun violence. This despite receiving a call from Giffords telling her to "be strong" and "be courageous."
The Democrats are finding it difficult to attain the support of Republicans in regards to this measure and I believe that Rep. Walsh hit the nail on the head. I have expressed mixed opinions on the matter, but when push comes to shove the question really is a matter of what will this do to prevent future violence committed at the hands of someone using a gun. As always, a criminal will gain access to firearms if they are dead set on it. No law will stop them.
The Democrats are now looking for ways to rework the bill to land the support of enough Republicans to get the measure passed.
"A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed."
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