Senators Bieda, Hopgood, Warren, Knezek, Gregory, Young, Conyers, Hood, Ananich and Hertel offered the following resolution:

            Senate Resolution No. 141.

            A resolution to urge the Congress of the United States to lift the existing prohibition against publicly funded scientific research on the causes of gun violence and its effects on public health and to appropriate funds for the purpose of conducting such research.

            Whereas, Firearm violence wreaks havoc on our everyday lives and constitutes a tragic and considerable public health burden on our society. Often synonymous with mass shootings, firearm violence also includes suicide, violent conflicts and disputes, unintentional deaths and injuries, and violent criminal acts; and

            Whereas, Firearms pose inherent risks that gun policies seek to reduce. However, it is unclear which gun policies might have the greatest positive social outcomes due to a lack of research on firearm violence. Without viable research, public health professionals struggle to define the problems associated with gun violence and develop preventive interventions; and

            Whereas, For over two decades, Congress has blocked any appropriations for gun violence research citing a 1996 law that bars public funds from being used to advocate or promote gun control. Although not specifically prohibited, the language has been interpreted as a ban on research funding; and

            Whereas, Scientific research stands outside of politics. Providing funding for gun violence research will allow for the development of meaningful interventions and the advancement of public health as our understanding of gun violence expands; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate, That we urge the Congress of the United States to lift the existing prohibition against publicly funded scientific research on the causes of gun violence and its effects on public health and to appropriate funds for the purpose of conducting such research; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.