FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 12, 2016

Statement from Speaker Carl Heastie on Orlando Attack

Today's senseless mass shooting in Orlando is yet another painful reminder that gun violence continues to wreak havoc in our country. News reports indicate the shooter specifically targeted members of the LGBT community and also made terroristic statements. We will never give in to hate, and I hope that this tragedy against innocent citizens will finally spur our elected officials to get real about the proliferation of guns in this country. It is far past time for Congress to take action and take weapons of mass destruction off our streets. I cannot fathom the pain and suffering the victims' families and friends are now experiencing and my heart goes out to the citizens of Orlando and to all those affected by this horrific act. I pray for the citizens who lost their lives and hope those who were injured recover swiftly.