For Immediate Release
DHS Press Office
Contact: 202-282-8010
WASHINGTON— U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Deputy Secretary Jane Holl Lute, U.S. Secret Service Director Mark Sullivan, FBI Deputy Director Sean Joyce, and DHS Office of Infrastructure Protection Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Bill Flynn today hosted a listening session with federal, state and local law enforcement, including officials from Aurora, Colo., Newtown, Conn., and Oak Creek, Wis., as well as the International Association of Chiefs of Police. The meeting focused on soliciting input regarding prevention and response efforts, which will inform the Administration’s work to create model emergency management plans for schools, houses of worship and institutions of higher education, one of the executive actions announced by the President on January 16th.
During the meeting, DHS officials discussed plans to reduce gun violence, and the federal government’s ongoing collaboration with partners at all levels of government to support state and local law enforcement to implement measures to prevent, protect, respond, react, and recover from potential future mass casualty shootings. Administration officials presented the President’s plan to better protect our communities from tragic mass shootings, including calling on Congress to close background check loopholes to keep guns out of dangerous hands; banning military-style assault weapons and high-capacity magazines; making schools safer; and increasing access to mental health services.
As a part of the Administration’s comprehensive efforts to prevent gun violence, DHS in partnership with the FBI and the Departments of Justice, Education, and Health and Human Services, plans to expand ongoing efforts to improve preparedness, and strengthen security and resilience in schools and other potential targets. Earlier this month, DHS launched a new webpage with resources for law enforcement and the public on how to respond to active shooter incidents. In addition, DHS will continue to work with law enforcement on expanding nationwide public awareness efforts such as the “If You See Something, Say Something™”campaign.
For more information, visit www.dhs.gov.
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