Minnesota Gov. Walz Plans Special Session on Gun Laws After Minneapolis Church Shooting

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has announced plans to call a special legislative session to address gun control measures following a tragic mass shooting at Annunciation Church, which killed two children and injured many others. Walz emphasized the urgency of protecting children in schools and churches, stating that failure to act would be shameful. He intends to propose a comprehensive gun control package, including an assault weapons ban, mental health provisions, red-flag laws, and safe storage requirements, aiming to balance safety with respect for Second Amendment rights. Despite Democrats' push for stricter laws, the closely divided Legislature—with Republicans holding a slight majority and generally opposing gun control—makes passage uncertain. Walz called on some Republicans to break with party orthodoxy to prioritize public safety and insisted that the special session will force a necessary debate on the issue. The governor framed the session as a response to public outcry and a critical moment to prevent future tragedies.