Milwaukee leader says new gun control law will save lives

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- With Milwaukee leaders on the South Lawn of the White House to witness the ceremony, President Joe Biden signed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act into law Monday.

It is being hailed as historic, breaking nearly three decades of of political gridlock on gun control. 

Reggie Moore, director of violence prevention policy and engagement for the Medical College of Wisconsin, was there for the ceremony and calls this law a good start in addressing gun violence.

"We absolutely believe that lives will be saved," Moore said.

The new law enhances background checks for gun buyers under 21, provides billions of dollars for mental health services and gives $750 million to states to incentivize crisis intervention programs. Moore says some of that money is needed in Milwaukee Public Schools.

"So that can be investments for MPS to hire more school safety staff, also invest in more programming like violence free zones," he said.

Moore, speaking at the Rotary Club of Milwaukee Tuesday, said that the community must continue to fight gun violence from a public health perspective.

"We've been ahead of the curve, other cities look at Milwaukee as a leader in this movement," Moore said. "And it's important to share this information with business, civic, and philanthropic leaders in the community."