Gun debate revives in Pennsylvania statehouse

HARRISBURG, Pa. —The debate over guns was revived Tuesday in Pennsylvania's Republican-controlled Legislature after a year of shocking violence, although Democrats went away frustrated and warning the process could end up actually loosening gun laws.

The day marked the start of a two-day Senate committee hearing on gun violence and a slate of House committee votes on gun-related legislation that drew some votes from Democrats, but also left untouched bills they have made their top priorities.

The House Judiciary Committee unanimously advanced legislation to more swiftly take away guns from someone who was involuntarily committed for mental health treatment, changing the period from 60 days to 48 hours.

However, another bill that passed the committee -- to make it harder and more expensive for municipalities to defend their firearms ordinances against lawsuits -- swiftly drew a veto threat from Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf.