Austin, TX — Nicole Golden, Executive Director of Texas Gun Sense, issued the following statement today, in response to the Target shooting.

“Our hearts are with the victims, families, and community members devastated by Monday’s shooting in Austin. We are deeply saddened—but not surprised—to see yet another Texas community torn apart by gun violence.

“Shopping trips should not carry the risk of being shot. But today, they do—conservative state lawmakers have chosen to weaken gun safety measures at every turn.

“Over the past two decades, Texas lawmakers have passed more than 100 laws making guns more easily accessible—including banning Extreme Risk Protection Orders this year. That choice has made our communities less safe, and today, Austin is paying the price.

“It doesn’t have to be this way. It is long past time for our leaders to prioritize the safety of Texans.”

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