Massachusetts AG calls on Congress to pass ‘universal background checks’ law

Maura Healey is urging the federal government to enact the measure amid continued gun violence across the country

The legislation would require background checks for all gun sales, including private sales and those at gun shows

Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey is calling on Congress to pass a “universal background checks” law in the wake of continued gun violence across the country.

Healey, a Democrat, made the plea in a letter to U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

“The time for Congress to act is now,” Healey wrote. “We cannot afford to wait any longer to take common-sense steps to reduce gun violence and save lives."

The legislation that Healey is supporting would require background checks for all gun sales, including private sales and those at gun shows.

According to the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, universal background checks are supported by a majority of Americans, including gun owners.

Healey’s call for action comes as the country continues to grapple with a string of mass shootings, including the recent tragedies in Uvalde, Texas, and Buffalo, New York.

In the wake of these shootings, there has been renewed momentum for gun control legislation. President Joe Biden has called on Congress to pass universal background checks, and several states have enacted their own measures in recent months.

Healey is hopeful that Congress will follow suit and pass a universal background checks law.

"We have a chance to make a difference and save lives," Healey wrote. "Let's not waste it."