    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1995, Book I)]
    [June 30, 1995]
    [Pages 990-991]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message to the Congress Transmitting Legislation To Limit the
    Availability of Certain Handgun Ammunition
    June 30, 1995

    To the Congress of the United States:
        Today I am transmitting for your immediate consideration and passage
    the ``Saving Law Enforcement Officers' Lives Act of 1995.'' This Act
    would limit the manufacture, importation, and distribution of handgun
    ammunition that serves little sporting purpose, but which kills law
    enforcement officers. The details of this proposal are described in the
    enclosed section-by-section analysis.
        Existing law already provides for limits on ammunition based on the
    specific materials from which it is made. It does not, however, address
    the problem of excessively powerful ammunition based on its performance.

    [[Page 991]]

        Criminals should not have access to handgun ammunition that will
    pierce the bullet-proof vests worn by law enforcement officers. That is
    the standard by which so-called ``cop-killer'' bullets are judged. My
    proposal would limit the availability of this ammunition.
        The process of designating such ammunition should be a careful one
    and should be undertaken in close consultation with all those who are
    affected, including representatives of law enforcement, sporting groups,
    the industries that manufacture bullet-proof vests and ammunition, and
    the academic research community. For that reason, the legislation
    requires the Secretary of the Treasury to consult with the appropriate
    groups before regulations are promulgated. The legislation also provides
    for congressional review of the proposed regulations before they take
    effect.
        This legislation will save the lives of law enforcement officers
    without affecting the needs of legitimate sporting enthusiasts. I urge
    its prompt and favorable consideration by the Congress.

                                                          William J. Clinton

    The White House,

    June 30, 1995.