Local Political Leaders Address New Gun Control Conversation

By: Jessica Cunnington - Email

Updated: Sun 10:57 PM, Dec 16, 2012

December 16, 2012

A new conversation on gun control has been brought to light after the horrific events on Friday in Newtown, Conn.

People across the country are speaking out about the issue. One of them is Virginia Del. David Toscano (D-57th District) who says he hopes this horrible tragedy will ignite a serious national conversation about the issue, especially here in Virginia.

He says there have been a few bills introduced that would allow guns in more public areas. He says he is afraid, as a state, that we are moving in the opposite direction of where we maybe should be moving.

"After Virginia Tech, the focus was on mental health. It wasn't really on access to firearms. And in fact, since Virginia Tech, we've simply opened up the opportunity for people to acquire firearms in Virginia. So it's actually going the other way in Virginia, and I'm not sure that's what we want to do," Toscano said.

The Jefferson Tea Party gave CBS19 this statement regarding the issue:

"The Jefferson Area Tea Party is shocked and heartbroken by yesterday's senseless tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut - and particularly for the deaths of young, innocent children. We will participate in what will undoubtedly be a revitalized conversation about 2nd Amendment Rights in the days and weeks ahead. But for now, we are placing singular focus on thoughts and prayers for the victims, the survivors, the grieving families, and the community of Newtown out of profound respect and sorrow."

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