The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) has long held positions intended to reduce and
prevent firearms violence. As law enforcement professionals, it is our duty to protect and serve our
communities and display the leadership needed to ensure public safety. As such, the IACP supports
legislation and policies that seek to improve the safety of our communities, which in turn enhances the
safety of law enforcement officers.
The level of firearm-related injuries and deaths in the United States, which includes homicides,
suicides, and accidental shootings, is unacceptable and demands immediate attention. Since 2000,
over 500,000 Americans have lost their lives to firearms violence which averages to over 31,000
firearm deaths per year. While acts of terrorism and mass shootings receive the most media coverage,
gun violence claims lives every day in cities and towns throughout the United States. Acknowledging
that any death by a firearm is equally tragic, regardless of the cause, the call to action remains the
same – to safeguard the public and those who put their lives on the line each day to ensure the safety
and wellbeing of communities.
Outlined in this position paper are common sense polices that would assist in reducing gun violence,
while upholding the second amendment.
