Indiana lawmakers are responding to President Obama's announcement today of executive actions on gun control.
The actions center around four topics: background checks, enforcement, mental health and technology.
"I think we can disagree without impugning other people's motives or without being disagreeable," President Obama says. "We don't need to be talking past one another. But we do have to feel a sense of urgency about it."
Sen. Dan Coats (R-Indiana) released a statement shortly after the announcement early this afternoon.
Once again, President Obama has sidestepped Congress in an attempt to legislate from the executive branch
— Senator Dan Coats (@SenDanCoats) January 5, 2016
"These unconstitutional executive actions disregard the separation of powers and infringe on the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding Americans," Coats says. "I oppose any effort that infringes on these constitutional rights and will work with my colleagues to ensure our Constitution is respected."
Gov. Mike Pence (R-Indiana) tweeted his support of the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms.
Second Amendment unambiguously affirms the right to keep and bear arms. I will continue to support the Constitutional rights of Hoosiers.
— Governor Mike Pence (@GovPenceIN) January 5, 2016
Rep. Luke Messer (R-Indiana) says the President's move to expand background checks to guns sales done online, at flea markets and gun shows will be challenged, possibly even by members of the Democratic party.
"The president needs to get focused on a real plan to deal with terrorism. You know, guns don't kill people, people kill people."
Other legislators supported the anouncement, including Rep. Andre Carson (D-Indiana).
"It is long past time for us to take actions to reduce the threat of gun violence which is why I commend the President's announcement today," said Rep. Carson in a statement. "His executive actions are significant steps, but in order to end these senseless tragedies, Congress needs to act."