[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 97 (Thursday, June 12, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1229]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  REAUTHORIZE THE ASSAULT WEAPONS BAN

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                         HON. MARK STEVEN KIRK

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 12, 2008

  Mr. KIRK. Madam Speaker, today I join Representatives Castle, 
Ferguson and Shays in introducing the Assault Weapons Ban 
Reauthorization Act of 2008. This September will mark the fourth 
anniversary of the expiration of the landmark 1994 Assault Weapons Ban. 
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms reported that crimes 
involving assault weapons dropped by two-thirds while the Federal ban 
was in effect. As the Nation witnesses a dramatic spread of violent 
gang activity, it is imperative that we take action to keep automatic 
weapons out of the hands of these criminals. It is high time to bring 
back the ban.
  This bill will prohibit the domestic manufacture and sale of 
military-style semi-automatic assault weapons such as AK-47s and UZIs, 
as well as high-capacity ammunition clips that hold more than ten 
rounds. It also includes weapons designed to fit accessories such as 
flash suppressors, silencers, and bayonets--accessories that serve no 
legitimate purpose outside the military and law enforcement.
  The Mexican government is currently engaged in a violent war against 
heavily armed, extremely violent drug traffickers. Just recently the 
cartels assassinated the Mexican equivalent of our FBI Director. They 
are now threatening President Calderon's life.
  These gangs operate in every major metropolitan area in the United 
States, and are increasingly active in suburban America where the local 
police are ill-equipped to meet this threat. Restoring the assault 
weapons ban will help level the playing field for these police as they 
work to keep our communities safe and gang-free.
  I urge my colleagues to join me in sponsoring this commonsense 
legislation.

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