Durbin Calls For Gun Legislation Following California Shooting

Will Stevenson -- Illinois Radio Network

Senator Dick Durbin is among the first Illinois lawmakers to react to yesterday's deadly shootings in San Bernadino, California.

Durbin, from the Senate floor, says the statistics are enough to tell you, that the victims of mass shootings need more than just thoughts and prayers.

"There have been over 350 mass shootings in America this year," says Durbin (D-IL).  "On average, 297 Americans are shot every single day, 89 fatally."

Durbin calls the events of Wednesday "horrific."

"It is time for Congress, in a level-headed, common-sense moment, to vote on and pass legislation to protect innocent people across America from this horrific gun violence," says Durbin.

But the Springfield Democrat was no more specific than that.  President Obama said yesterday he wants stronger gun control measures.  Congressman Rodney Davis (R-Taylorville) said earlier this week that mental health treatment also needs to be a key part of the equation.