The NRA is pushing back against a critical amendment in the Violence Against Women Act renewal as the legislation heads to the Senate for a final vote. The organization openly called for a 'NO' vote and will be "scoring" how lawmakers vote on the measure, in an effort to intimidate some congresspeople with constituents who support gun rights. Their Their vote will then factor into their overall "NRA" score, and even have an impact on their endorsement by the NRA in future elections.The only way to fight back is for your congressperson to hear from you, their constituent, that the protections proposed in the VAWA matter more to you than their support from the NRA. Will you take the pledge to make that call? Call (202) 224- 3121 if you're ready. 

The main point of issue is with closing the 'boyfriend loophole' (expanding firearm prohibitions to include dating partners convicted of abuse or stalking charges) and barring those from purchasing a gun who are convicted of misdemeanors of domestic abuse or stalking. The NRA says that this is a ploy from Democrats to further restrict access to firearms. In a speech by House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, however, he highlighted the growing crisis that is domestic violence in this country, with a statistic that shows the presence of a gun increases the risk of homicide in a domestic violence situation by 500% (yes you read that number right). 

These amendments passed swiftly through the House of Representatives (but it is important to remember that Democrats hold a majority in the House). The Senate is proven to be a more difficult fight, and it is important that we do not take it for granted. Domestic violence is an increasing threat with every passing day, and we need to address this crisis. The only way to fight back is for your congressperson to hear from you, their constituent, that the protections proposed in the VAWA matter more to you than their support from the NRA. Will you take the pledge to make that call? Call (202) 224- 3121 if you're ready.