Local Congressman responds to Obama’s gun control action

While Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., said she is “very pleased (the President) is using his authority to bring some sanity to our gun laws and keep guns out of the hands of criminals and other potentially dangerous individuals,” many legislators agreed Congressional action would solidify efforts needed to reduce gun violence.

Following President Obama’s announcement of executive action on gun control measures, Valley Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-36) told CBS Local2/KESQ “I support increasing mental health services and closing the gun purchase background check loophole in order to help reduce gun violence in our communities and needless deaths in emergency rooms,” says Ruiz.

“Responsible gun owners and I agree that high risk individuals, terrorists, domestic violence abusers, convicted criminals, and those that suffer mental illness inclined to hurt themselves and others should not be allowed to purchase weapons.,” he continued.

But the Democrat from Coachella did not fully support the President’s avenue to action.

“Although I prefer congressional legislation over presidential executive actions, doing nothing is irresponsible.”

Senator Feinstein said Obama’s executive actions target “loopholes that allow felons and other prohibited purchasers to buy weapons at gun shows and online without background checks.”

While the executive policies will help, “we still need congressional action, and I very much hope that one day my colleagues will find the courage to do the right thing and stand up to the gun lobby,” said Feinstein, who has long pushed unsuccessfully to pass gun control measures.

Feinstein worked alongside San Francisco City Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone when they were assassinated by a former Supervisor in 1978.