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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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CONTACT: Bill
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State Rep. Angel Cruz |
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Cruz introduces bill to ban guns in state Capitol complex
HARRISBURG, July 5 -- State Rep. Angel Cruz, D-Phila., has introduced legislation (H.B. 1701) that would ban anyone from carrying a gun in the state Capitol complex. Cruz said the buildings would include the Main Capitol, the East Wing of the Capitol, the North Office Building, the Speaker Matthew J. Ryan Legislative Office Building and the Speaker K. Leroy Irvis Office Building.
Exceptions to Cruz’s proposed ban would include any Pennsylvania State Police or Capitol Police officer, and any member of Legislative Protective Services.
Cruz said that government buildings should be free from the potential of violence, especially as members of the executive and legislative branches address issues that may trigger violent responses.
“To protect visitors to our state Capitol and those who work in the offices each and every day, I think it is very important that we not allow any weapons in any of the buildings,” Cruz said. “Earlier this year, I was threatened in this building with the words that I 'should be hung from the tree of liberty.' I take threats like that very seriously.
“Also, in an age when terror plots against government agencies could be carried out, it is imperative that we ban weapons in our state building,” he added.
Violators would be charged with a summary offense.
For more information regarding this legislation, or other issues important to you and your community, please contact Cruz’s constituent service office at 215-291-5643, or visit his Web site at www.pahouse.com/cruz.
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