Ruiz Urges Speaker Ryan to Act on Guns, Zika Before Congress Adjourns

Washington, D.C. – Today, Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-36) urged Speaker Ryan not to adjourn without bringing a vote on legislation to address gun violence and the growing threat of the Zika virus.

“Congress should not adjourn without addressing two critical issues to keep Americans safe. We must vote on solutions that can reduce the risk of deaths from gun violence, including preventing terrorists from buying guns in the United States, and contain the spread of the Zika virus,” said Dr. Ruiz.

Dr. Ruiz outlined his case for immediate action in a letter to Speaker Ryan sent today. A copy of that letter can be found below.

July 14, 2016

The Honorable Paul Ryan

Speaker of the House

H-232, The Capitol

Washington, D.C. 20515

Dear Speaker Ryan:

I write to urge you not to adjourn this week without first voting to address two critical matters facing our country – gun violence and the Zika virus. These are neither Republican issues nor Democratic issues; they are public health and health security issues. It is our responsibility to pass meaningful legislation to keep the American people safe.

We must vote on solutions to prevent gun violence. Even as our nation continues to experience horrific gun tragedies, Congress has failed to pass commonsense legislation that can reduce the risk of deaths from gun violence. In particular, it is important that we deny terrorists the ability to purchase guns in the United States. Voting on serious solutions to prevent further violence is long overdue and we must take action before we adjourn.

We also need to hold a vote on legislation to contain and stop the spread of the Zika virus. As the summer continues and the mosquito that can carry the virus becomes more prevalent the need for resources to combat Zika increases. Despite this urgency, the House has yet to vote on legislation to fully fund efforts to prevent and eradicate the spread of the Zika virus.

Time is of the essence. As we continue to lose lives to gun violence and as the threat of Zika grows, we must take immediate action. I would be happy to work with you toward a solution. Inaction only leaves the American people more vulnerable. I strongly urge you not to adjourn before bringing legislation to the House floor that will keep the American people safe.

Sincerely,

Raul Ruiz, M.D.

Member of Congress