Mayor Eddie Melton responds to Indiana House Bill 1235 targeting Gary

As someone who has experienced gun violence personally, I believe it is critical that we
have the legal ability to hold bad actors accountable and to ensure the ongoing safety of
our public. Indiana House Bill 1235 removes the rights of Gary and any Indiana
community to represent itself in a court of law.

The City of Gary is committed to public safety and improving the health and wellbeing of
its residents. Guns however, do not respect municipal borders. We have seen many
tragic instances in which guns sold by irresponsible dealers were trafficked into the
hands of our citizens, resulting in terrible tragedies.

It is time for Indiana policymakers to respect and honor the stories of our families and
communities who have been affected by gun violence, by passing responsible gun
reform legislation. Unfortunately, what we see is a morally bankrupt bill that protects the
rights of manufacturers and disregards the lives of people in communities like Gary.

Media Contact: 
Erika Blackwell 
ofc: (219) 881-1314 
cell: (219) 292-1251
eblackwell@gary.gov

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