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South Florida Democrats call on Congress to close gun loopholes

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Conversations about gun control are getting louder and more common in the wake of the Orlando shootings.

On Friday, three congressional members from our area called for new legislation to end gun violence.

During a news conference at the West Palm Beach Federal courthouse, Rep. Lois Frankel, Rep. Ted Deutch and Rep. Patrick Murphy, all South Florida Democrats, urged Congress to pass two bills.

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The first would close the "No Fly, No Buy" loophole, which allows suspected terrorists to buy guns. The other proposal would close the gun show loophole, which allows individuals to purchase firearms at gun shows and online without a background check.

"All we're saying, is at a minimum, shouldn't we take action? Shouldn't we take the small step to ensure that a suspected terrorist can't get his hands on a weapon?  It's not that complicated," said Deutch.  

This week Connecticut U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy (D) relinquished the Senate floor after a nearly 15-hour filibuster over gun control.

Although Murphy did not succeed in bringing a solution to the two bills being discussed Friday, Politico reported he ended the filibuster with the understanding that the Senate would hold votes on background checks and the terrorism watch list.

In Orlando, during the president's visit Thursday, Sen. Marco Rubio (R) said it was too soon to move on legislation. He says he is focusing on getting help for the victims and their families.

WPTV has put in calls and emails to U.S. Rep. Thomas Rooney (R), but he has not offered comment.