Recognizing the importance of saving lives, reducing gun violence, and strengthening public safety as the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary.

Whereas the United States commemorates its 250th anniversary in 2026, marking a historic milestone in our its democratic journey;
Whereas the promise of the United States includes ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of all people and communities;
Whereas gun violence remains a leading cause of death and injury in the United States, impacting families, communities, and the public health and economic stability of the United States;
Whereas the United States continues to lead the world in the number of gun deaths, with an average of 125 people killed by guns each day;
Whereas there are over 400,000,000 guns in the United States, but only 340,000,000 people in the United States;
Whereas 1 in 5 people in the United States will personally witness someone shot;
Whereas people of all communities, including veterans and children, are not immune to the pull of the trigger;
Whereas evidence-informed solutions—including community violence intervention, Federal background checks, effective law enforcement partnerships, and responsible public safety policies—have been shown to reduce gun violence and save lives;
Whereas survivors of gun violence, community leaders, public safety professionals, and advocates play a vital role in advancing effective solutions to improve public safety;
Whereas reducing gun violence is essential to protecting communities and ensuring all people of the United States can live free from preventable harm;
Whereas saving lives and safeguarding the well-being of the people of the United States is a fundamental responsibility of government; and
Whereas the 250th anniversary of the United States presents an opportunity to renew the commitment of the United States to protecting lives and strengthening public safety for future generations: Now, therefore, be it
That Congress—
recognizes the 250th anniversary of the United States as a moment to reaffirm a national commitment to saving lives, reducing gun violence, and strengthening public safety;
honors the lives lost to gun violence and provides support for survivors, families, and communities impacted;
commends the efforts of community leaders, law enforcement, public health professionals, community violence intervention practitioners, and advocates working to prevent gun violence and promote safety;
prioritizes support for law enforcement efforts to collect and publish data about violent crimes, improve clearance rates for homicides and shootings, and expand training in deescalation tactics;
supports expanded investment in proactive, community-based strategies that stop violence before it occurs by identifying individuals at high risk and intervening with credible messengers and customized services that address the root causes of violence;
commits to ensuring robust funding for victim services so many can take the first steps towards recovery;
affirms that preventing gun violence and saving lives must be a national priority as the United States enters its next 250 years; and
pursues policies that strengthen public safety, uphold constitutional rights, and protect the well-being of all people of the United States.