NH House Pushes For Pair Of Gun-Control Measures

CONCORD -- New Hampshire residents will face expanded background checks and a seven-day waiting period for gun purchases if a pair of bills passed in the House of Representatives become law.

The House voted Tuesday to expand background checks for private gun sales and transfers, as well as add a seven-day waiting period before a sale can be completed.

The bill, which passed on a 203-148 vote, would close a loophole in the current New Hampshire law that allows for private firearm transactions to take place at gun shows without a background check.

The bill requiring a seven-day waiting period for gun purchases or transfers passed 199-147.

"Waiting periods can and do save lives by preventing impulsive acts of violence and suicide," said House Majority Leader Doug Ley (D-Jaffrey) in a statement. "Our most important job is to protect and preserve the health and safety of all New Hampshire residents and I am pleased the House voted to do that today."

Both margins would not be enough to overrule an expected veto from Gov. Chris Sununu, if the bills pass the Senate.

Debate remains heated on both sides of the bills.