As advocates for stronger gun safety laws get ready to rally tonight (7pm) at the Minnesota Capitol, stalemate continues among top lawmakers. Governor Tim Walz asked Senate Republicans to hold hearings. They reiterated no universal background checks, but Majority Leader Paul Gazelka said he’s “definitely open” to addressing mental health issues — although he said proposed “red flag” law is not the way to go because taking away someone’s civil rights based on someone else’s accusations “creates all kinds of problems, including due process and revenge and a number of things.”
House Speaker, Democrat Melissa Hortman responds “red flag” laws have been enacted in Republican-led states. “Senator Gazelka should take a good look at the evidence that supports implementing this law. It would protect Minnesota lives,” Hortman says.