Rep. Sykes Issues Statement On Supreme Court Ruling To Uphold Ban On Domestic Abusers Possessing Guns
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) issued the following statement after the Supreme Court ruled today to uphold a 1994 law that bans people under domestic violence restraining orders from carrying guns.
“Today, victims and survivors can breathe a sigh of relief because the Supreme Court upheld an important law that disarms dangerous and violent abusers. Domestic violence and gun violence are deeply connected, and over half of all intimate partner homicides are committed with guns. Today’s decision is consistent with the Second Amendment and will help keep guns out of the hands of dangerous abusers, ultimately saving lives,” said Rep. Sykes. “There’s still more work to be done to ensure every American is safe, secure, and free from abuse. I’ll keep fighting to pass legislation like my Safer Homes and Families Act, which would protect and empower survivors, hold abusers accountable, and keep our families and communities safe from violence.”
The Safer Homes and Families Act would protect families from domestic violence by:
- Banning the use of electronic devices to track people without their consent;
- Expanding access to Social Security spousal benefits for individuals who divorce due to domestic abuse;
- Training healthcare providers to better identify and treat individuals who have experienced sexual assault, domestic violence, or dating violence; and
- Allowing individuals who are experiencing dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, or sexual assault to break their lease without adverse costs.
As a state legislator, Rep. Sykes led the passage of H.B 1, bipartisan legislation to protect victims of intimate partner violence and close part of a loophole that allowed abusers to remain armed.
###