Recently seated Congressman Enyart names Kevin Kern to newly formed gun task force

U.S. Rep. Bill Enyart, D-Belleville, has named Perry County Clerk Kevin Kern to head a newly formed Southern Illinois Gun Task Force in the wake of President Barack Obama's announcement Wednesday proposing tighter controls on guns aimed at preventing future mass shootings like the one last month at Sandy Hook Elementary.

Enyart is himself a gun owner, hunter and conservationist.

The group has been assigned the task of trying to find ways to address gun ownership, reducing gun violence and addressing mental illness issues as it relates to guns while adhering to the spirit of the Second Amendment.

"We have heard from the president, and it's time to hear from Southern Illinois, because it is essential that our Southern Illinois values are protected," a statement from Enyart said Tuesday afternoon. "It is disappointing that the president chose to handle this important issue through executive order. That is why I look forward to working with (Kern) and the Southern Illinois Gun Task Force to draw on the depth of experience and diversity in Illinois' 12th District and start a serious dialogue," Enyart continued.

"There is an important debate being waged across the nation, and by bringing together folks across the district - from gun owners to law enforcement officials to trusted community and faith leaders - we can start a conversation where all of Southern Illinois voices are heard," Kern said.