Newtown Delegation hears emotional testimony in Sandy Hook

Last night the Newtown House Delegation listened to hours of emotional testimony from victims’ families, first responders and public officials at the last in a series of public hearings following the tragic Sandy Hook shooting.

The full bipartisan Task Force on Gun Violence Prevention and Children’s Safety assembled at Newtown High School to hear the heartfelt remarks of community members on a range of issues relating to the massacre, including gun control, mental health services, societal violence and school safety.

The Newtown House Delegation listens to heartfelt testimony in Newtown.

“Last night the Newtown community came together and once again demonstrated incredible compassion and conviction on the issues of gun control, mental health services and ways to keep our children safe,” Rep. Hovey said. “I know the Task Force will continue to draw upon Newtown’s strength as we work to propose meaningful legislation to address these important and sensitive issues.”

The Newtown Delegation stands to applaud a speaker among the full bipartisan Task Force on Gun Violence Prevention and Children’s Safety.

“Last night’s speakers were passionate, heartfelt and called for very different action than the majority of speakers at Monday’s Gun Violence Prevention public hearing,” said Rep. Carter, who represents the southwestern portion of Newtown. “I am committed to reconciling the passionate opinions from both sides of these critical issues, and recommending meaningful changes to prevent future tragedies.”

Reps. Bolinsky, Hovey and Carter listen as Newtown First Selectman Pat Llodra speaks.

“I would like to thank the brave families of victims, emergency personnel and local leaders who attended last night to deliver their eloquent and thoughtful testimony on these sensitive issues,” said Rep. Bolinsky, who represents around 80% of Newtown in the General Assembly. “I took their words to heart, and as the Task Force moves forward with legislative proposals I remain dedicated to keeping a respectful focus on the people of Newtown and honoring their central voice in this conversation.”

Speakers testified for 6 hours to an auditorium of 750 stakeholders, including the 52-member panel.

With the public hearing process now complete, each of the three Working Groups will compile a report of their findings to be submitted to legislative leaders of the Task Force by February 15.

Video of the hearing can be viewed here: http://ct-n.com/ondemand.asp?search=gun%20violence%20prevention%20and%20children