Senator Ron Johnson appears to signal support for 'red flag' law

MADISON — Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson isn't saying whether he supports President Donald Trump's call to strengthen gun laws in the wake of two mass shootings.

But Johnson does appear to be signaling potential support for a "red flag" law that allows family members to petition authorities to restrict a mentally ill person's access to firearms.

Johnson in a statement Monday, Aug. 5 called for re-evaluating "how our society treats mental illness to keep firearms out of the hands of people who pose a danger to themselves and their communities."

President Trump has also signaled openness to such laws and other Republicans, including Sen. Lindsey Graham, of South Carolina, support it.

Johnson says there are no quick fixes, but "there are effective, bipartisan actions that can be taken."