Mass. Gun Bill Hearing Draws Backers, Critics
BOSTON (AP) — Opponents of a proposed gun control bill are pushing back on Beacon Hill, saying the measure stigmatizes gun owners and won't help reduce crime.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Lana Jones reports
State Rep. George Peterson told a legislative panel Tuesday that while he supports parts of the bill unveiled last week by Democratic House Speaker Robert DeLeo, other elements chip away at Second Amendment rights.
The Grafton Republican and gun owner also said tighter control of firearms doesn't translate into safer streets and less violence.
Peterson made his comments at a packed Statehouse hearing.
Supporters of the bill — including Attorney General Martha Coakley and state Treasurer Steven Grossman — praised the measure.
Coakley said the bill will help keep guns out of the hands of those who shouldn't have them. Grossman said tighter access to guns will reduce suicide.
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