Bill 118 HRES 454 is a resolution that provides for the consideration of another bill, H.R. 715, which aims to require a background check for every firearm sale. The resolution sets the rules for how H.R. 715 will be debated and voted on in the US Congress.
H.R. 715, the main bill being considered, seeks to close loopholes in the current background check system for firearm purchases. The bill would require background checks for all gun sales, including those made at gun shows and online. This is intended to prevent individuals who are prohibited from owning firearms, such as convicted felons and those with a history of domestic violence, from obtaining guns through these channels.
Supporters of H.R. 715 argue that universal background checks are a common-sense measure to help keep guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals and reduce gun violence. They believe that closing these loopholes will make it harder for criminals to access firearms and help prevent tragedies like mass shootings.
Opponents of the bill, however, argue that universal background checks infringe on the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens and will not effectively prevent gun violence. They believe that criminals will find ways to obtain guns regardless of background check requirements and that such measures only burden responsible gun owners.
The resolution, Bill 118 HRES 454, is important because it sets the stage for the debate and potential passage of H.R. 715. It outlines the procedures for how the bill will be considered in Congress, including how long it will be debated and when a vote will be taken. This resolution is a crucial step in the legislative process and will determine the fate of the background check bill.