Heinrich Statement On Air Force Domestic Violence Reporting Deficiencies

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Following the release of the Air Force's preliminary findings of its domestic violence reporting deficiencies that allowed the Sutherland Springs, Texas shooter to purchase firearms, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) is calling for the immediate consideration of the Domestic Violence Loophole Closure Act; bipartisan legislation he introduced with U.S. Senators Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) to close the background check loophole.

“The preliminary findings by the Air Force Inspector General solidify how critical it is for Congress to do more to address gun violence and ensure that any individual convicted of domestic violence – whether it is in criminal or military court – cannot legally purchase a firearm. We now know that the reporting failure at Holloman Air Force Base was not an isolated incident – similar lapses occurred across the armed services. 

“The Air Force must continue to take swift action to identify and remedy shortfalls in its reporting, but we must also pass our bipartisan bill to close these loopholes and leave no room for error. The Department of Defense has a responsibility to report domestic violence convictions and ensure the National Instant Criminal Background Check System database is accurate to keep victims and the public safe. These are actions Republicans and Democrats can agree on and ones we must take to prevent future tragedies.”