VICTORY FOR GUN SAFETY: Connecticut Lawmakers Approve New State Budget, Including Millions in Funding for Gun Violence Prevention

The Connecticut chapters of Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action, both part of Everytown for Gun Safety’s grassroots networks, released the following statement after Connecticut lawmakers increased funding for gun violence prevention programs in the proposed budget for the coming year. The budget will include millions of funding dollars for community-based violence intervention programs and the establishment of a Commission on Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention.

“Funding gun violence prevention efforts is a crucial component of keeping Connecticuters safe,” said Kate Roschmann, a volunteer leader with the Connecticut chapter of Moms Demand Action. “Lawmakers have once again affirmed their commitment to fighting the gun violence that continues to devastate Connecticut communities. We applaud their work to approve this meaningful investment, and we look forward to continuing to work alongside gun sense champions in the legislature.” 

The investments include: 

• Establishing a Commission on Gun Violence Intervention and Prevention
• Allocating $400,000 to fund gun violence prevention
• Allocating over $2 million to Project Longevity, including $350,000 through the Department of Economic Development for job training and placement
• Providing for $1 million in grant money for Community Violence Prevention Programs under the Department of Public Health made available through the American Rescue Plan Act

Every year, hundreds of people are shot and killed or wounded in Connecticut. Gun violence costs Connecticut $1.4 billion each year, of which $60.4 million is paid by taxpayers. Read about gun violence in Connecticut here.