West Michigan Congressman Fred Upton says a “red flag law” probably would have prevented the mass shooting in Parkland, Florida in 2018. The St. Joseph Republican says other states have used red flag laws, and it should be implemented nationwide.
Upton says under such a law, law enforcement officials can investigate whether someone is a danger to themselves or others. He says if that threat is determined “with due process,” then weapons can be retrieved and held by authorities. Upton says he hopes a proposed “red flag law” can reach the House floor soon. He says it can be “another tool in the toolbox to prevent something from happening.”
An assault weapons ban was part of the crime bill that became law in 1994. Upton voted for the bill, the ban on assault weapons expired in 2004 and was not renewed. Upton would not say if he would support another assault weapons ban, saying he has concerns about loopholes. Upton says he does support expanding background checks for anyone wanting to buy a gun.
Guns was one of many topics Upton discussed in his interview with WMUK. Other issues included climate change, election security, and possible Republican primary challenges to President Trump. The interview began with Upton saying he hasn't decided if he will seek another term in the U.S. House next year.
