SPRINGFIELD – A measure sponsored by State Senator Patrick Joyce passed the Senate Wednesday that would keep a law on the books to hold repeat gun offenders accountable.

“This is an extension of a law that has been in the books since 2018 to help crack down on gun violence in the state,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “The extension will continue to hold repeat gun offenders accountable for their actions.”

House Bill 1440 would extend sentencing for individuals with prior felony firearm related offenses through 2025.

The original measure – which has been in place since 2017 and was set to end this year – was first passed in an effort to keep communities safe from reoccurring gun violence.

“While we look further into the law, our state’s attorneys and judges should have it at their disposal,” said Joyce “What we should be focusing on is the potential impact this could have on public safety and our justice system. We want to keep our residents and communities safe.”

House Bill 1440 passed the Senate Wednesday afternoon.