Republicans Sound Alarm on Biden’s “Red Flag Operation” to Target Gun Owners

Vice President Kamala Harris is set to visit Florida on Saturday to highlight a new Biden administration initiative aimed at providing training and technical support to individuals involved in implementing laws aimed at preventing individuals deemed dangerous from accessing firearms.

The program, known as the National Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) Resource Center, has faced criticism from some Republicans who label it as a "massive Red Flag Operation."

According to a Department of Justice press release, the ERPO Resource Center will offer assistance to various stakeholders, including law enforcement officials, prosecutors, attorneys, judges, clinicians, victim service providers, social service organizations, and behavioral health professionals.

ERPO laws, similar to domestic violence protection orders, allow for a civil process where law enforcement, family members (in most states), and certain professionals (in some states) can petition a court to temporarily restrict an individual at risk of harming themselves or others from purchasing or possessing firearms.

During her visit to Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, where a tragic mass shooting occurred in 2018, Harris is expected to introduce the initiative and urge states to pass red flag laws while utilizing federal funding to implement existing laws.

Attorney General Merrick Garland expressed support for the effort, emphasizing its role in preventing firearms from reaching individuals deemed dangerous. The launch of the ERPO Resource Center aligns with the Justice Department's broader efforts, utilizing tools provided by legislation like the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act to combat gun violence.

The resource center's website will serve as a platform for stakeholders to access critical information and resources aimed at reducing firearm-related incidents and saving lives. It will also showcase successful ERPO implementation practices and facilitate collaboration among states and localities.

However, the creation of the resource center faced criticism from House Republicans, with some labeling it as a violation of Second Amendment rights. Representative Thomas Massie and Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene raised concerns about potential misuse of the initiative to target specific individuals.

The Biden administration has been active in advocating for gun control measures, with President Biden calling for bans on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines during his recent State of the Union address. Biden emphasized the importance of responsible gun ownership while addressing the need for stricter gun control laws.