We need measures that address the problem

On Dec. 2, Americans witnessed the worst terror attack on U.S. soil since Sept.11, 2001. The mothers, the fathers, the brothers, the sisters, the husbands and the wives who lost someone in this senseless tragedy deserve the full attention and support of the U.S. government.  Following the tragedy in San Bernardino, instead of working to find concrete solutions to identify and track terrorists around the globe, Democrats in Washington have chosen to push legislation allowing the Attorney General to deny gun purchases using her discretion and the federal government’s Terrorist Screening Database (TSDB). 

We can all agree that guns should be kept out of the hands of actual terrorists.  However, this Democrat bill is a solution in search of a problem. First, the bill does nothing to address the fact pattern in San Bernardino.  First, neither Tashfeen Malik nor Syed Farooq was reported to be found in the Terrorist Screening Database. Secondly, when a national background check is run to purchase a firearm, it is already cross-referenced with the Terrorist Screening Database.  If a positive match is found an investigation is opened by the FBI in coordination with other intelligence agencies and the sale of the firearm is delayed.  This is all currently being done. 

{mosads}Lawmakers proposing this irresponsible gun control legislation should also stop to consider the implications of exposing existing surveillance and investigations.  By using the Terrorist Screening Database as the key factor in preventing gun sales, we run the risk of alerting potential terrorists that they are on the list when their gun sale is delayed or not processed.  Micromanaging this important process from Congress would be dangerous and terrible mistake.

No matter what political persuasion you hold, we must present solutions that directly address the situation in San Bernardino and the overall threat to our homeland.   This past week in the House we have passed legislation to strengthen the visa waiver program.  I was proud to support this legislation that reduces the risk of an extremist entering the country from abroad and strengthens the certification requirements for all countries participating in the program, prompting these countries to share critical threat intelligence and ensuring that they are using the best international security protocols.  Immediately following the attacks in Paris we also passed the American Security Against Foreign Enemies Act which required supplemental security certifications and background investigations to be completed prior to the admission of certain aliens as refugees. Both bills are real solutions to limit terrorist ability to attack our country but we know we must do more. 

Bottom line: We need solutions that address real national security threats facing our country and leaders willing to implement them.  I am committed to do what it takes.  The President’s latest idea of withholding citizens’ right to bear arms is a wasted attempt at gun control.  Worst of all, it causes a distraction at a critical time when we need the energy and focus of all our leaders to confront our country’s greatest national security threats. 

Stutzman has represented Indiana’s 3^rd Congressional District since 2010. He sits on the Budget and the Financial Services committees.