The passage of the landmark Bipartisan Safer Communities Act today is a significant step forward in reducing gun violence in America. It includes several provisions that will ensure that states, local communities and law enforcement have the funding and mechanisms to help make our communities safer.
Among these provisions is $750 million for a new red flag law state grant program to help keep firearms out of the hands of people in crisis. As one of the earliest proponents of red flag laws, the Joyce Foundation has supported research, policy development and education, implementation and evaluation around these policies in 19 states and the District of Columbia. The research shows that funding and incentives for states to enact ‘red flag laws’ will make our communities safer, ensuring that law enforcement and families have the tools to stop tragedy before it happens.
The law also includes $250 million in new community-based violence intervention (CVI) and closing of the “boyfriend loophole,” which restricts gun purchases for those convicted of abuse beyond just marital partnerships - two measures that will have a significant impact on public safety.
Implementation will be key. This new law leaves significant discretion to the states on how these policies will work in action and how funds are used. It is critical that research continues to inform how this law is turned into practice and to ensure the provisions are properly evaluated for effectiveness.
The Foundation applauds the bipartisan effort on this important legislation, which brings us closer to the safer America we all seek and deserve.
About The Joyce Foundation
Joyce is a nonpartisan, private foundation that invests in evidence-informed public policies and strategies to advance racial equity and economic mobility for the next generation in the Great Lakes region.