U.S. Senators Mazie K. Hirono and Richard Blumenthal have introduced the Keep Americans Safe Act (KASA), aimed at reinstating a ban on high-capacity gun magazines holding more than ten rounds. This legislative effort is mirrored in the House by Representatives Diana DeGette, Dina Titus, and Brad Schneider.
Senator Hirono emphasized the importance of this measure in addressing gun violence, stating: “As we work to combat our nation’s gun violence crisis, banning high-capacity magazines is a crucial step toward combatting senseless acts of gun violence and protecting our communities.” Senator Blumenthal added that such a measure "will save lives and greatly reduce the carnage of gun violence."
From 1994 to 2004, a federal law banned semiautomatic assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. Research indicated that during this period, mass shooting fatalities were reduced by 70 percent. However, since the expiration of this law in 2004, incidents involving high-capacity magazines have resulted in significantly higher casualties.
The proposed act includes provisions to ban the sale or transfer of these magazines to anyone other than law enforcement, authorize buyback programs for such items, and empower agencies like the FBI and ATF to seize illegally possessed magazines.
Mark Collins from Brady: United Against Gun Violence stated: “The common denominator in nearly every mass shooting is large-capacity magazines (LCMs).” He expressed gratitude for the leadership shown by Hirono, Blumenthal, and DeGette.
Nick Wilson from the Center for American Progress highlighted potential benefits if enacted: “When a mass shooting occurred, states with a large-capacity magazine ban had 38 percent fewer fatalities.”
John Feinblatt from Everytown for Gun Safety supported the legislation's introduction: “We applaud Senator Hirono for introducing this legislation.”
The bill is cosponsored by numerous senators including Chris Coons, Tammy Duckworth, Dick Durbin among others.
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