Ohio Gun Violence Co-Chairs Statement on Toledo Mass Shooting

COLUMBUS - State Reps Michele Grim (D-Toledo), Karen Brownlee (D- Symmes Twp), and Cecil Thomas (D- Cincinnati) today issued the following statements in reaction to the mass shooting that occurred on Saturday at the Old West End Festival in Toledo:

"I was devastated to learn of the shooting at the Old West End Festival. Our communities should be able to gather, celebrate, and enjoy cherished traditions without fear of gun violence," said Rep. Michele Grim. "Year after year, we see the devastating consequences of inaction. Ohioans are tired of thoughts and prayers without meaningful steps to reduce gun violence and keep our communities safe."

"Preventable violence continues to plague Ohio because the supermajority continues to ignore the firearm epidemic. How many more lives must be lost for the legislature to realize that legislation must be enacted?" said Rep. Karen Brownlee.

"From the mass shooting in the Oregon Historic District of Dayton, to the violent attack on Fountain Square in downtown Cincinnati, and now the Old West End Festival in Toledo. The cries of 75% to 90% of Ohioans are calling for the legislature to do something. Instead the majority party in the House and Senate remain silent. Democratic bills sit in committee unable to move forward while Ohioans are asking the same question: when will enough be enough? Communities across our state are tired of mourning loved ones while meaningful gun violence prevention measures sit untouched in committee rooms. The Ohio Gun Violence Prevention Caucus has introduced bill after bill focused on prevention, accountability, and public safety, yet most have never received a hearing. The people of Ohio deserve more than inaction. They deserve leaders willing to confront this crisis and seriously consider solutions that can save lives," said Rep. Cecil Thomas.

The Ohio Gun Violence Prevention Caucus has worked to introduce over 20 firearm safety and regulatory legislation over the course of this General Assembly. A majority of these common-sense, widely supported bills have still never received their legally required first hearing.