Tom Reed
Congressman Tom Reed (R-Corning) is offering his thoughts on the tragedy in Newtown, Conn., saying the conversation should not be limited to gun control, but also should get at what he calls the root of the problem, and that’s the individual behind the gun.
During his weekly conference call with Media on Monday, Reed focused primarily on the shootings in Newtown. He expressed his grief for the victims and their families, and also talked about what the country should do to prevent future tragedies from occurring. He says that starts with identifying those who are at a high risk of doing harm to others.
“I think the conversation needs to be directed at what is the primary cause of these situations, and that is the individuals who are behind these gruesome crimes and trying to develop polices that empower our mental health providers, our parents, our teachers and our law enforcement so that they have the tools that we can identify that individual, get him the help – if possible – that he needs, but most importantly, neutralize him as a threat to our society,” Reed said.
As for banning assault weapons and placing other restrictions and regulations on gun owners, the Corning Republican says he is firmly against it.
“I believe the second amendment is an individual, fundamental right. It’s a freedom that we enjoy in America,” Reed explained. “Once you go down this path of limiting those freedoms I’m very concerned as to where that will take us. Also, [I’m concerned with] having that conversation in an emotional type of way rather than a productive, fact-based conversation.”
Reed says that while he does not support federal changes to gun laws, he does believe the discussion will still take place. He’s hopeful, however, that the gun debate will only be part of the conversation.
Reed also said his office will continue to support schools in making sure they have the resources needed to keep students, faculty and staff safe – including finding ways to help install and pay for the school resource officer program.
Starting in January, Reed will represent the newly created 23rd Congressional District, which now includes all of Chautauqua County.
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