Explained | What is included in the U.S. Senate’s gun reform deal?

Amid rising public concern about gun violence, a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators has agreed upon a framework for a firearms safety bill

The story so far: In a step towards establishing a culture of gun safety in the United States, a bipartisan group of Senators have agreed on a basic framework for new legislation on gun control and safety. The agreement, which comes in response to tragic incidents of mass shootings last month, includes tougher background checks for buyers under 21 years of age, support for ‘red flag’ measures to keep firearms away from potentially dangerous people and steps to improve safety and mental health services in schools. U.S. President Joe Biden has welcomed the agreement, saying it reflects “important steps in the right direction”, while acknowledging its limited measures.

The cycle of mass shootings in the U.S. has continued over decades with few formal measures taken by Congress to put an end to it. Last month, there was a string of mass shootings in America that included the killing of 19 children and two teachers in a Texas school. The tragic episode renewed the push for gun control measures with thousands taking to the streets to demand meaningful changes from lawmakers and to ask for legislation to curb gun violence and prevent such shootings in future.

Following pressure on politicians, intense negotiations took place between a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators to reach common ground on gun safety rules. After weeks of closed-door talks, the group announced on June 2 that they have struck a deal on an initial framework for gun safety reform. The agreement has the support of nine Democrats, 10 Republicans and one independent who caucuses with the Democrats. It has also been endorsed by the U.S. President. 

The agreement on gun reform is inoteworthy considering that earlier efforts have ended in a stalemate. But there is no guarantee that the legislation will be approved by Congress. However, at least 10 Republicans are presently backing the agreement. This support is expected to push the framework and help it overcome the “filibuster” rule of the Senate which requires 60 of the 100 to agree on legislation for it to advance.

The agreement has not been written into legislative text yet. However, as per a statement by the group of Senators, here is what is likely to be part of the written agreement.

‘Red flag’ measures: In the U.S., Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law is commonly known as ‘red flag’ law. Under this, an individual identified to be at risk of causing violence is restricted from accessing firearms for a temporary period. The proposal passed by the Senate will provide resources to ensure that weapons are kept away from those who have been deemed a danger to themselves or society by a court. 

Background checks: Firearms buyers who are under 21 years of age will have to undergo background criminal and mental health checks. Notably, those convicted of domestic violence or having domestic violence restraining orders will have to undergo a criminal background check in case they wish to purchase a firearm.