(The opinions and views expressed in the commentaries and letters to the Editor of The Somerville Times belong solely to the authors and do not reflect the views or opinions of The Somerville Times, its staff or publishers)

Gun violence prevention is crucial to the safety of our city, and the vocal support of Somerville residents is paramount in encouraging our elected representatives to prioritize this issue. Please help our state continue to be a national leader in the fight to prevent gun violence by urging our lawmakers to support passage of the following bills this week:

1) H.2491 and H.2439: Combatting the rising threat of untraceable and undetectable firearms (“ghost guns”) by ensuring all DIY firearms are marked with unique serial numbers, prohibiting 3-D printed firearms, and ensuring these weapons don’t end up in the hands of dangerous people.

2) H.2505 and S.1568: Protecting our democracy from the threat of armed extremism and intimidation by prohibiting firearms in polling places, on Capitol grounds, and at demonstrations in public buildings.

3) H.2486: Requiring successful completion of live-fire training by all firearm permit applications in the state, ensuring permit holders have demonstrated their ability to safely handle and discharge firearms. This is a common-sense step that can have a significant impact.

4) H.2437 and S.1562: Helping law enforcement by expanding the reporting and analysis of crime gun data to create effective policies to prevent gun violence.

5) H.2519 and S.1552: Improving emergency responses to situations not requiring an arrest or police presence by developing alternative dispatch programs. This will help ensure people have access to assistance they need and situations are not escalated unnecessarily.

You can find your legislator at https://malegislature.gov/search/findmylegislator

A quick call, email, tweet or postcard is all it takes!

Rachel Walsh-Peterson