Condemning the tragic act of gun violence on July 28, 2025, in New York City that led to one of the deadliest mass shootings in the city’s history, and calling for stronger, comprehensive Federal action to prevent gun violence nationwide.
Summary
House Resolution 656 condemns the tragic gun violence in New York City on July 28, 2025, and calls for stronger federal action to prevent gun violence nationwide. The resolution highlights the use of a military-style semiautomatic rifle and large-capacity ammunition magazines obtained legally in a state with weaker gun laws. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive federal gun safety legislation, including universal background checks and banning weapons of war.
Expected Effects
If passed, this resolution would signal Congressional support for stricter federal gun control measures. It could lead to increased pressure on Congress to enact comprehensive gun safety legislation. However, the actual implementation of such legislation would depend on further legislative action and political will.
Potential Benefits
- Could reduce gun violence by addressing loopholes in state gun laws.
- May prevent mass shootings by restricting access to military-style weapons and large-capacity magazines.
- Could enhance public safety by requiring universal background checks.
- Might protect states with strong gun laws from the impact of states with weaker laws.
- Could honor the victims of gun violence by taking action to prevent future tragedies.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could infringe on the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens.
- May face strong opposition from gun rights advocates and some members of Congress.
- Could be difficult to enforce effectively across all states.
- Might not deter criminals who obtain firearms illegally.
- Could lead to legal challenges based on constitutional grounds.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution's call for stronger federal gun safety legislation raises questions regarding the Second Amendment, which protects the right of the people to keep and bear Arms. The Supreme Court's interpretation of the Second Amendment allows for reasonable restrictions on gun ownership, but the extent of these restrictions is a subject of ongoing debate. Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8), which could be used to justify federal gun control measures that address the interstate trafficking of firearms.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).