Maryland Governor Wes Moore recently signed a bill establishing the first statewide gun violence prevention center, known as the Center for Firearm Violence Prevention and Intervention. This center will operate within the Maryland Department of Health with the mission of consolidating and coordinating the state’s public health approach to preventing gun violence. The center aims to partner with local governments, advocates, and medical professionals to enhance existing gun violence intervention programs and ensure they are well-funded and backed by data. This initiative follows in the footsteps of President Biden, who established the Office of Gun Violence Prevention in September 2023.
Maryland has become the first state to adopt a statewide agency against gun violence, in response to President Biden’s call for action. Governor Moore emphasized the importance of this move and highlighted Maryland’s leadership in addressing gun violence on a national level. Additionally, Moore signed the Growing Apprenticeships and the Public Safety Workforce (GAPS) Act, which aims to provide better funding to police departments in the state. The bill proposes short and long-term actions to address challenges faced by police departments in hiring and retaining officers, by reforming the apprenticeship model for public safety professionals and establishing policies for law enforcement officer wellness programs.
The signing of these laws comes as Baltimore continues to face high levels of crime, with statistics showing a significant number of aggravated assaults, robberies, shootings, and homicides since the beginning of 2024. Governor Moore emphasized the administration’s commitment to prioritizing public safety and taking a different approach to address the ongoing issues. The governor’s statement highlighted the focus on supporting victims, creating stronger pathways to law enforcement jobs, and tackling the gun violence epidemic head-on. While progress has been made, Moore acknowledged that there is still more work to be done and emphasized the importance of continuing to take an all-of-the-above approach to public safety.
The establishment of the Center for Firearm Violence Prevention and Intervention and the signing of the GAPS Act demonstrate Maryland’s commitment to addressing gun violence and prioritizing public safety. By partnering with local entities and medical professionals, the new center aims to enhance existing gun violence intervention programs and ensure they are adequately funded and backed by data. Governor Moore’s leadership in signing these laws reflects a proactive stance in addressing the pervasive issue of gun violence and supporting law enforcement agencies in the state.
The governor’s office did not provide immediate comment in response to inquiries from Fox News Digital. However, the initiatives signed by Governor Moore underscore a concerted effort to combat gun violence and enhance public safety in Maryland. By implementing measures such as the GAPS Act and establishing the Center for Firearm Violence Prevention and Intervention, the state is taking crucial steps towards addressing the root causes of gun violence and creating stronger support systems for law enforcement officers. The ongoing commitment to an all-of-the-above approach to public safety indicates a comprehensive strategy to ensure the well-being of Maryland residents and communities.
