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After Minneapolis Mass Shooting, Uvalde Foundation Drafts Legislation Aimed To End Assault Weapons

Uvalde Foundation for Kids Drafts Minnesota Assault Weapons Ban: "Fletcher-Harper's Law," Named After Annunciation Church & School Shooting Victims - To Be Presented To Lawmakers. Foundation Challenges Mayor

MINNEAPOLIS, MN

 The Uvalde Foundation for Kids national charity nonprofit, formed after the May 2022 Uvalde, Texas mass shooting; released a Labor Day announcement, that it has completed and will be presenting to Minnesota lawmakers, its initial draft release of "Fletcher-Harpers Law," a proposal the foundation hopes will be endorsed and adopted by State lawmakers in Minnesota. 

The proposed law, named after 2 victims, Fletcher Merkel & Harper Moyski, who lost their lives during the recent Annunciation Church & School Shooting; calls for a complete, statewide assault weapons ban, alongside comprehensive programming designed to address what the foundation calls a "culture of violence."


The foundation's proposal and stance comes in response to the recent shooting in Minneapolis and recent statements by Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey's who called for such a ban. The foundation noted the legislation is also a testament to the Foundation's belief that a multi-faceted approach is essential to creating safer communities for children.

Mayor Frey recently stated, "Assault weapons have no place in our communities. We need to get these weapons off our streets to protect our children." The Uvalde Foundation for Kids agrees with the Mayor's assessment and is moving forward with a draft proposal for state lawmakers that will include a ban on these weapons.

The Foundation noted Monday, that it believes such a ban is a necessary component of a larger strategy to enhance public safety.

"While an assault weapons ban is a critical piece of the puzzle, it is not a complete solution on its own," said Daniel Chapin, founder of the Uvalde Foundation for Kids.
"Our children deserve to grow up in a world where they feel safe and cherished. It is our collective responsibility to build that world for them, not through fear and prohibition alone, but through courage, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to their well-being. We must also address the 'culture of violence' with a holistic approach that includes community-led programs and mental health support."

The Uvalde Foundation for Kids was formed in the wake of the tragic May 2022 school shooting at Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas, which left 19 children and two adults dead. Since its inception, the foundation has expanded its student advocacy and violence prevention work nationwide, addressing school violence through a variety of programs and initiatives.


The Foundation has a proven track record of proactive community engagement. The Foundation recently launched a city-wide Volunteer School Community Safety Patrol Program, an initiative entirely independent of law enforcement. This program trains and mobilizes community members to create a visible and reassuring presence around schools, fostering a sense of security for students and staff.

In the wake of the tragic Annunciation Church Shooting, the Uvalde Foundation for Kids provided substantial donations to the victims and their families, offering much-needed support during a time of immense grief. This commitment to direct aid and community support underscores the Foundation's belief in immediate, tangible assistance.

The Foundation has also been a powerful force in legislative change in other states. It played a crucial role in the implementation of Megan's Law, which established sex offender registries to protect children, and Emmanuel's Law, which enhanced protections for vulnerable youth.

which would require the installation of camera systems in all public licensed daycare facilities and increase mandates for staff training in the care of children with special needs.

Current Minnesota Law Regarding Assault Weapons:

Under current Minnesota law, individuals are permitted to possess and use what are commonly referred to as "assault weapons," provided they are legally obtained and registered, and used in compliance with all state and federal regulations.

Minnesota Statute § 624.713 outlines restrictions on individuals prohibited from possessing firearms, but does not specifically ban categories of firearms based on their cosmetic features or perceived "assault weapon" status.


The state largely defers to federal definitions and regulations concerning firearm ownership.

A Path Forward: Collaborative Action to Address Violence

The Uvalde Foundation for Kids is actively drafting a comprehensive proposal to present to Minneapolis lawmakers. This draft will call for an assault weapons ban, coupled with funding and support for grassroots programs and mental health initiatives.

The Uvalde Foundation for Kids cordially invites Mayor Jacob Frey to actively collaborate and provide oversight on the Foundation's forthcoming proposal. "We believe that by working together, we can develop truly effective solutions that protect our children and strengthen our communities," said Chapin.

"We are confident that our proposal offers a more sustainable and impactful path to safety, and we welcome the Mayor's input and leadership in refining it."

About the Uvalde Foundation for Kids:

The Uvalde Foundation for Kids is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating safer environments for children through community empowerment, legislative advocacy, and direct support. With a history of impactful initiatives, the Foundation champions proactive solutions that foster security and well-being for youth across the nation.

The Uvalde Foundation For Kids 

254 499 8027



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