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Schumer pushes background checks for gun sales

By ERIC WERNER, Associated Press

Story Created: Jan 14, 2013 at 2:22 PM EDT

Story Updated: Jan 14, 2013 at 2:22 PM EDT

WASHINGTON (AP) - Sen. Charles Schumer says requiring universal background checks is something that could pass Congress despite political opposition to gun control.

Schumer, a New York Democrat, says he'd like to see an assault weapons ban pass, too. But he says passing gun control measures is not easy.

Because enforcing background checks on all gun purchases doesn't change the rules on who can own guns, Schumer says he sees it as "a way to come to the middle and get something real done." Right now, advocates say some 40 percent of gun sales occur without background checks, such as those at gun shows.

Schumer spoke to reporters at the Capitol Monday. Vice President Joe Biden is expected to endorse universal background checks in recommendations Tuesday to President Barack Obama.

(Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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