To The Editor:

In 2021, Connecticut took action against gun violence. Our leaders voted to strengthen our “red flag” laws. Now, if someone’s behavior shows that they may be at high risk of harming themselves or someone else, their family or a medical professional can apply for a risk protection order investigation. If it’s approved, police can take firearms and ammunition away, to make sure they’ll be safe. It’s a preventative step that will save lives.

In our region, we know all too well what someone at high risk can do to hurt others. We need to take situations like these seriously, and I’m proud that our leaders in this state are listening and taking action to make sure people in crisis receive care and support and are prevented from harming anyone before receiving that help.

Well, most of them.

Tony Hwang voted against expanding our red flag laws. Apparently, he didn’t feel doctors and nurses could tell when someone is at risk of harming themselves or others, and he doesn’t trust family members to take care of their loved ones in crisis. Those people will still undergo due process legally, but that wasn’t enough for Senator Hwang. The bill also prevented people who received “red flags” from accessing firearms while they’re under a protection order, further protecting Connecticut’s public safety.

Connecticut has one of the lowest rates of firearm death in the country thanks to the strong laws our leaders have passed. Gun owners in our state are required to use them responsibly, and people who are directly at risk of harming themselves or others shouldn’t have them. It seems like common sense, right? It seems that way to me, but not to Tony Hwang.

Vote for safety and common sense. Vote for Rob Blanchard for State Senator.

Betsy Litt

Newtown