Debate on gun reform rages as Pennsylvania House returns to session

HARRISBURG, Pa. — Debates rage at the state capitol.

Fall session is in full swing, with lawmakers tackling several issues Tuesday, including the hot topic of gun regulations.

One of the most controversial bills that would put a Red Flag law in place in Pennsylvania was introduced by a Republican lawmaker last week. But, one of his colleagues is essentially killing the bill before it's even gotten a chance to be voted on in the house floor.

"It's time we start saving lives in Pennsylvania," said Rep. Todd Stephens, a Democrat representing the 151st Legislative District. "House bill 1075 and my colleague, my good friend Senator Tom Killion's bill, Senate Bill 90 over in the Senate, will save lives in Pennsylvania."

Stephens touted support for House Bill 1075 at a Moms Demand Action rally last week at the capitol. Under the bill, a judge would be able to hear evidence and decide if they should disarm a person deemed a threat to themselves or society.

Following due process, a court could immediately issue an emergency order, taking the firearms for up to a year.

That bill may never make it to the floor for a vote.

Democrats are critical of House judiciary chairman, Rep. Rob Kauffman, a Republican who represents the 89th Legislative District, for saying he will not allow the committee to vote on House Bill 1075.

Kauffman says he's focusing on legislation targeting violent criminals.

The Democratic chair of the House Judiciary Committee says they're determined to bring their bill for a full vote.

"We can either introduce amendments to various bills or we can introduce a discharge resolution to try and force it out of committee, and those are options that we're going to need to look at," said Rep. Tim Briggs, a Democrat representing the 149th Legislative District. "We're still early in the session, but, to make that sort of bold statement that we don't need to do any more on gun reform, it's irresponsible, and I think it's something we need to address."

Governor Tom Wolf also weighed in, saying he is extremely frustrated and disheartened by reluctance to vote on the bill, saying he will continue to fight for safer communities in Pennsylvania.