Today, state Representative Mark Keller’s amendment to House Bill 1243, strengthening firearm preemption to provide consistency for Pennsylvania’s firearm and ammunition laws throughout the state, passed in the state House of Representatives by a 143 to 54 vote. In addition, state Representative Steven Santarsiero’s anti-gun amendment mandating the expansion of so-called “universal” background checks to ALL firearms purchases -- including rifles and shotguns -- was defeated by a 132 to 64 vote. HB 1243, as amended, will be now be voted on the House floor tomorrow for its third consideration and final passage.

Please check the links to the roll call votes above and, if your state Representative voted for the Keller firearms preemption amendment and against the Santarsiero background check expansion amendment, thank your state Representative and encourage him or her to vote for final passage of HB 1243 tomorrow.

However, this fight for freedom is not over. Because of your calls and e-mails, this important legislation will now be in a position to be sent to the state Senate for consideration. With only a handful of days left in the 2013-14 legislative session, it is important that you also contact your state Senator and urge swift passage of this vital legislation. Over the past four years, the Pennsylvania Legislature has failed to act on this important pro-gun reform, and to date, nearly fifty municipalities have enacted illegal local gun control ordinances, including Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Lancaster, Reading and the state capital of Harrisburg.

Click here to identify your state Senator. Together we can make a difference.