Parkland, Florida – Vice President Kamala Harris visited Parkland, Florida, the site of one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history in 2018. She called for states to pass red flag laws, programs that allow authorities to temporarily confiscate firearms from individuals deemed to be a threat. Harris stressed the importance of proactive intervention to prevent tragedies before they occur.

Nearly half of the states in the United States have implemented red flag laws, despite opposition from some gun rights groups and activists. Harris’s visit to Parkland included a tour of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School with family members of the victims. The school building where the shooting took place is expected to be demolished later this year.

As the head of the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, Harris emphasized the need for states to utilize resources allocated for red flag laws. She highlighted the role of these laws in removing weapons from individuals who pose a danger to themselves or others, potentially preventing future shootings.

In states like Florida, which passed a red flag law following the Parkland incident, individuals can seek court orders known as extreme risk protection orders. However, Harris noted that many states have not fully implemented their red flag programs despite available federal resources for training and implementation.

To address this issue, Harris announced the establishment of a national resource center to provide training and support to states, local governments, law enforcement, and healthcare providers in utilizing red flag laws. She proposed additional measures such as universal background checks, restrictions on military-style firearms, and increased funding for mental health services in communities.

Harris’s visit to Parkland underscored the ongoing efforts to prevent gun violence and protect communities. By advocating for the use of red flag laws and other gun control measures, she aimed to create safer environments for all individuals, especially in the wake of tragic events like the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting.