WASHINGTON— Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Coffman, R-Colo., introduced legislation to increase funding to the National Criminal History Improvement Program, which helps states modernize criminal background check systems. 

Coffman released the following statement regarding his amendment--

“Today I have introduced an amendment to House Resolution 933, the Department of Defense, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013.  This amendment will increase funding for the National Criminal History Improvement Program (NCHIP) by $47.5 million, for a total of $50 million for the remainder of the fiscal year.  NCHIP provides Department of Justice grants to states, to help modernize criminal history records so states are more effectively able to participate in criminal background checks with federal law enforcement agencies for individuals seeking to purchase a firearm.  The NCHIP has seen its funding drastically decreased in recent years, and this increase will help ensure that our background check system for firearm purchases remains up to date and useful.”

###