By Bob Katzen

A bill heard by the Public Service Committee would require the Massachusetts Pension Reserves Investment Management (PRIM) Board to divest direct investments with companies that derive more than 15 percent of revenues from the sale or manufacture of ammunition, firearms or firearm accessories used for civilian purposes.

“It is crucial that we take a stand against gun violence, which is now the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to nineteen,” said State Treasurer Deb Goldberg. “This bill takes a fiscally responsible approach in divesting from an industry that has repeatedly refused to work toward protecting our communities.”

She noted that while this represents only a minuscule fraction of the state’s investment portfolio, divestment from ammunition and firearms sends a clear message to the victims and survivors of gun violence everywhere that Massachusetts stands with them.