Washington, DC-Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01) renewed his call to close a loophole in U.S. law that allows those on the terror watch list to legally purchase firearms, citing national security concerns.

Norcross, a member of the House Budget Committee, introduced an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2017 Budget urging passage of the Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act.

“This is common sense. If you’re on the U.S. terror watch list, you’re not allowed to fly, but you can still purchase a firearm or explosives? That’s outrageous. Our policy should be four simple words: no fly, no buy,” said Rep. Norcross.

The Norcross amendment to the Act would provide additional resources for investigators to perform background checks on gun buyers and commit federal funding for mental health services.

In remarks to introduce his amendment, Rep. Norcross pointed to Government Accountability Office statistics which show more than 2,000 suspected terrorists successfully purchased guns in the past decade.

“This is about keeping the tools of death & destruction out of the hands of those who hate us and want to eliminate us. How can someone pledge allegiance to ISIS and still be allowed to purchase a firearm in this country?” said Norcross during a hearing before the House Budget Committee.

The legislation failed in committee in a vote along party lines. Rep. Norcross will continue to urge Congressional colleagues to bring the bill to the floor for a vote.

To watch Rep. Norcross’ remarks as seen live on C-SPAN, click here.

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