Senator Casey plans to back plan to deal with gun violence

Photo by Craig Layne/witf

U.S. Senator Bob Casey (on the right) during a visit to Penn State Hershey Medical Center

(Hershey) -- Pennsylvania's senior U.S. senator plans to back President Obama's proposals to curb gun violence.

Senator Bob Casey sees the debate raging around the issue as an important conversation for the country to have in the wake of the Newtown shooting.

He expects Congress to vote on at least two measures -- banning so-called military-style assault weapons and magazines that hold more than 10 rounds.

He says the issue isn't about taking guns from law-abiding firearms owners.

"As the (Obama) Administration's proposal is put on the table, we'll have to
analyze each proposal, each action," he says. "But I think at least on the two legislative matters that'll come before us, neither will have an impact on the right to bear arms, needing to protect yourself or to hunt."

The Democrat says action is needed. "Act means not just votes in Congress or actions by the (Obama) Administration, but I think in state capitols and communities," he says. "I don't think we need a lot more studying time. I think we've had time to reflect and to narrow done some of the things we can work together on. It should be bipartisan."

During an appearance in York, Casey called for an increase in dollars for federal programs that assist local law enforcement.

One of those initiatives that he said is underfunded is known as COPS and has put 55 police officers on the streets in York County since 1994.