Washington, DC - Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today joined fellow members of Congress in bipartisan action to close the so-called “terrorist background check loophole,” and took action to force a vote on the legislation.

The loophole in federal gun laws allows those on the government’s terror watch list to legally obtain deadly firearms. The Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act, introduced by Rep. Peter King (NY-02), would close that loophole.

“This is about keeping deadly weapons out of the hands of those who are intent on harming innocent Americans. If we don’t allow them on planes, why would we let them buy guns? This is an urgent national security matter,” said Rep. Norcross.

The Congressman supported similar bipartisan efforts while serving in the New Jersey Legislature, which was later enacted into state law.
“How can someone pledge their allegiance to ISIS and still be allowed to legally buy a firearm in this country? That’s outrageous. We have no greater duty than to protect the people of the United States. We can never be totally certain when or where terror will strike. But we must take common-sense steps to reduce our risks. Taking action to close this loophole is another reasonable step to protect Americans,” said Rep. Norcross.

Today Congressman Norcross signed a discharge petition in the House of Representatives that, if signed by the majority of members of Congress, will bring the terror loophole bill to the floor for a vote. And he took part in a Congressional panel where he addressed law enforcement and public safety experts on the need for action to protect national security.
Congressman Norcross, a member of the House Armed Services Committee-Emerging Threats Subcommittee, traveled last month to the Middle East where he received classified briefings from military and intelligence leaders.

Following his trip, Rep. Norcross said, “My recent trips to Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt have confirmed the grave nature of the threats posed by ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and a host of other extremist organizations intent on committing murder throughout the world. My first responsibility is to ensure the safety and security of the American people, and we must enact prudent, focused measures to do just that.”

Congressman Donald Norcross is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and the House Budget Committee, and serves as an Assistant Whip in the 114th Congress.