MEMPHIS, Tenn. — President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have announced an Executive Order aimed at combating emerging firearms threats and improving school-based active shooter drills.
This initiative addresses the rising concerns over machinegun conversion devices and 3D-printed firearms, marking a big step in the Biden-Harris Administration's ongoing efforts to reduce gun violence.
The order establishes an Emerging Firearms Threats Task Force responsible for assessing the dangers posed by these firearms and recommending necessary federal actions within 90 days, building on previous initiatives like the establishment of the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention and the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.
The Executive Order emphasizes the need for improved active shooter drills in schools, recognizing the psychological impacts these drills can have on students and staff. Federal agencies are directed to develop guidelines for K-12 and higher education institutions to ensure these drills are effective and trauma-informed.
Memphis Mayor Young attended the signing on Sept. 26, 2024, and highlighted the importance of this action for communities like Memphis. In an Instagram post, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of this moment, stating, “This bold action will help save lives and protect our neighborhoods from the devastating effects of gun violence.” He also thanked President Biden and Vice President Harris for their leadership in creating safer communities.
