SC Senators Discuss “Charleston Loophole” Gun Bill

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) _ A group of senators wants more time to discuss a bill lengthening the amount of time authorities can take to finish a background check on someone trying to buy a gun in South Carolina.

The Senate Judiciary Committee decided not to vote Tuesday on a bill dealing with the so-called “Charleston Loophole.”

The bill would extend from three to five days the amount of time federal officials have to check on incomplete information on gun buyers.

Authorities say when Dylann Roof bought the gun used to kill nine people at a Charleston church in 2015, his background check was incomplete after three days and he was allowed to buy the weapon.

The bill’s sponsors also want a requirement for court clerks to report convictions and restraining orders within five days.