This past weekend, we were solemnly reminded how gun violence shadows every aspect of life, from university exams to sacred holiday celebrations. The United Church of Christ has long advocated for sensible, responsible policies to end gun violence. We are proud members of Faiths United to Prevent Gun Violence and, in addition to holding those who were lost in prayer, we encourage all to recommit to the urgent task of addressing the pervasiveness of gun violence. 

The House is currently considering bringing H.R. 38, federally mandated concealed carry reciprocity, to the Floor for a vote. This bill would substitute the laws of a person’s residence for the laws of the state in which they are physically present, overriding state laws governing who can carry a loaded concealed handgun, where they can carry it, and who can possess such a weapon in the first place. This legislation poses a direct threat to faith communities across the country. 

This bill would: 

• Override state laws that disarm individuals convicted of hate crimes 
• Allow individuals from permit-less carry states to carry concealed weapons nationwide without background checks 
• Undermine sensitive place designations that protect houses of worship 
• Penalize law enforcement officers personally for enforcing state gun safety laws 
• Prevent verification of whether concealed carry permits are authentic or current 
   

No one should have to fear for their lives when going to school or a house of worship. In a time when hate-motivated violence is reaching crisis levels, we cannot afford to pass legislation that would make deadly attacks more likely.  

Contact your representative today and urge them to oppose H.R.38 and to protect the safety of faith communities and all communities targeted by hate violence.