The proposal doesn't solve issues with crime and the mentally ill, group says.
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National Rifle Association Executive Vice President Wayne LaPierre speaks in Washington in this December file photo.
The National Rifle Association today issued a statement on a deal in Washington, D.C., to expand federal background checks on gun sales.
Here is the statement in full:
"Expanding background checks at gun shows will not prevent the next shooting, will not solve violent crime and will not keep our kids safe in schools.
"While the overwhelming rejection of President Obama and Mayor Bloomberg's 'universal' background check agenda is a positive development, we have a broken mental health system that is not going to be fixed with more background checks at gun shows. The sad truth is that no background check would have prevented the tragedies in Newtown, Aurora or Tucson.
"We need a serious and meaningful solution that addresses crime in cities like Chicago, addresses mental health deficiencies, while at the same time protecting the rights of those of us who are not a danger to anyone.
"President Obama should be as committed to dealing with the gang problem that is tormenting honest people in his hometown as he is to blaming law-abiding gun owners for the acts of psychopathic murderers."
See related story: Pat Toomey says 'common sense' background check amendment 'right thing to do.'