Vermont Senate overrides veto of gun bill

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Vermont Statehouse (file)
Pat Bradley/WAMC

The Vermont Senate has voted to override Republican Gov. Phil Scott’s veto of a bill aimed at keeping firearms out of hospitals and closing the so-called “Charleston Loophole.”

Governor Scott said he vetoed the legislation because it would have extended to 30 days the maximum background-check waiting period to purchase firearms. Currently if a background check is not completed within three days the purchase is allowed to proceed.

The Senate overrode his veto on a 21 to 9 vote.

Senate Pro Tem Becca Balint, a Democrat, says the override sends a clear message they are serious about gun safety legislation.

“It was our intention to finally close a dangerous loophole. Which is why the Senate stands by its work on S.30.”

The House now considers its own override.

The Associated Press contributed to this report. Contents © copyright 2022. All rights reserved.

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