PHOENIX — The Arizona chapters of Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action released the following statement after the Arizona Senate voted to advance SB 1331 — a dangerous piece of legislation that would force schools to allow adults who have a concealed carry permit to bring guns onto school grounds, and even inside educational institutions
if they have a student attending the school.
“Arizona students deserve to learn in a productive and safe environment,” said Teresa Neiberg, a volunteer, from Arizona Moms Demand Action. “For decades, our children have been terrorized by guns in our schools. At a time when lawmakers should be presenting policies that keep firearms away from our kids and teachers, they’re doing the exact opposite. We look forward to working with lawmakers on policies that actually promote the well-being of our students and families”
This legislation is just the latest attempt to weaken gun laws by gun lobby-backed lawmakers who in recent weeks voted to advance legislation that forces public colleges to allow concealed carry weapons in campuses throughout Arizona. In addition to the House denying a hearing to Christian’s Law, a measure aimed at educating the public on responsibly storing firearms. Arizona families shouldn’t live in fear of the next shooting or gun incident in their neighborhood or nearby school or college campus.
In an average year in Arizona, 1,155 people die by guns and 919 people are wounded. Gun violence costs Arizona $15.9 billion each year, of which $253.2 million is paid by taxpayers. More information about gun violence in Arizona is available here. To speak to an Arizona volunteer with Moms Demand Action, a volunteer with Students Demand Action, or a policy expert, please reach out to [email protected].
