Klarides to Take a Leading Role in Bipartisan Task Force on Gun Violence Prevention and Children's Safety

Today State Rep. Themis Klarides (R-114), along with fellow House and Senate leaders, announced the formation of a bipartisan legislative task force on gun violence prevention and school safety in the wake of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.

The task force will conduct a review of current law and make recommendations on a range of potential legislation to prevent gun violence, enhance school security and ensure the availability of mental health services in Connecticut.

"The formation of this task force is the first step toward decisive, thoughtful action aimed at addressing the complicated issues that were painfully brought to light by the Newtown tragedy," said Rep. Klarides who will act as House Republican leader of the group when Rep. Cafero cannot be present. "We will elevate these discussions above partisan politics, which has no place in this important process, and come together to make our state a safer and healthier place."

Legislative leadership has designated three working groups which focus on the three core issues of gun violence prevention, school security and mental health. Each caucus will appoint as many as four members to each group.

The task force, which includes Democratic committee chairs and Republican ranking members, will provide recommendations for a bipartisan emergency certified bill in March.

The group will work in concert with a task force established by Gov. Malloy earlier this month that shares the same purpose.

The first full meeting of the task force will occur on Friday, January 18th at 1:30pm in Room 2E. The group will conduct at least one public hearing before creating a final package of legislation.