Young Statement on Addressing Underlying Causes of Gun Violence

INDIANAPOLIS – Following his statement yesterday, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) today issued the following comment on the underlying causes of gun violence:

“Clearly we have multiple problems in this country – problems of hate, social alienation, and the devaluing of human life – and we’re going to have to work together as a nation to address these challenges. I think Indiana has done a good job with respect to our red flag law and that’s something that needs to be part of the conversation moving forward across the country,” said Senator Young.

Senator Young is supportive of red flag laws, like Indiana’s, which allows law enforcement to step in quickly if an individual is believed to be a danger to themselves or others. According to Department of Justice funded research, most mass shooters reach a crisis point in which they demonstrate warning signs through changes in behavior, expressions, or threats, and this often stems from a past trauma or violence. We need to do far more to recognize, report, and act on these warning signs.

Last Congress, Senator Young cosponsored and voted to enact the Fix NICS Act to improve criminal background checks, and the STOP School Violence Act to help improve school safety infrastructure, resources, and procedures. President Trump signed these bills into law in March 2018.

Senator Young also cosponsored the School Safety & Mental Health Services Improvement Act to improve mental health services for youth, and the Protecting Communities and Preserving the Second Amendment Act, which imposes more severe penalties on individuals who attempt to illegally procure firearms and commissions a study on the causes of mass shootings.

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