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Gun background check bill passes Oregon Senate on 17-13 vote
A measure that would require criminal background checks for private gun transfers in Oregon passed the Senate on a 17-13 vote Tuesday and now heads to the House.
Democrats used their bigger majority to push the controversial gun bill through the Senate, which had blocked action on similar measures in 2013 and 2014. Sen. Betsy Johnson, D-Scappoose, joined all 12 Republicans in voting against the measure.
Under Senate Bill 941, Oregon would become the 12th state to require background checks on firearms sales and transfers between private individuals. Those purchasing guns from licensed dealers and at gun shows in Oregon are already required to submit to background checks to see if they are legally prohibited from owning a gun. Felons, domestic abuse offenders and those committed for mental health treatment are among those legally barred from holding guns.
Supporters portrayed the measure as a way to close a loophole that has allowed criminals to easily purchase guns from individuals, particularly those who may advertise on the internet.
Critics said the law was not enforceable and would do nothing to reduce crime rates. They also said it would pose a major burden on gun owners by forcing them to pay unnecessary fees for background checks, even when they are lending guns to friends.
"The list of untenable situations goes on and on," said Sen. Kim Thatcher, R-Keizer, noting that it would require background checks for someone who wanted to give guns to a friend to get them out of his or her home because someone in the family is in crisis.
Sen. Floyd Prozanski, D-Eugene, the sponsor of the bill, said there are several ways that people can keep their guns secure without running afoul of the bill. He noted that there were several exemptions, including for transfers among family members and those lending a gun for hunting.
Senate Majority Leader Diane Rosenbaum, D-Portland, said the "minor inconveniences" of the expanded background checks were outweighed by the gains in safety.
"This is the same system that has been working well for gun owners and gun dealers for years," she said.
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