Larson calls for tighter gun control

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — U.S. Rep. John Larson of Connecticut is calling on Congress to ban assault weapons and take other action to reduce gun violence in the wake of the deadly rampage at an elementary school in his state.

The Democrat said in statement Saturday that Congress should require background checks for all gun sales, close terrorist watch list loopholes and ban assault weapons and high-capacity clips.

He says his suggestions won't end gun violence, but that they are a start.

A gunman opened fire at a Newtown elementary school on Friday, killing 20 children and six adults.

It's not the first time Larson has spoken out on guns. After the attempted assassination last year of then-U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, Larson questioned whether sweeping changes to congressional security were possible.