Obama Expected to Pitch Tougher Gun Laws

(NECN/NBC News: Tracie Potts, Washington) - President Obama was expected to pitch tougher gun laws Wednesday, in response to the Newtown, Conn. school shootings.

Even before his announcement later in the morning, the NRA said these tougher gun laws won't work.

President Obama would appear with children who wrote the White House after the Newtown tragedy.

"There are specific legislative actions that he will continue to call on Congress to take, including the assault weapons ban, including a measure to ban high-capacity magazine clips," said White House Press Secretary Jay Carney.

And he was expected to announce actions he'd take on his own - some which some Republicans endorse.

"Let's talk about mental health issues. Let's talk about enforcement of current law, gun law. Let's talk about violence glorified to Hollywood," said Rep. Tim Huelskamp, (R) Kansas.

The President's plan was expected to include all of that plus: Universal background checks - including gun shows and online sales.

Demonstrators are pressuring Walmart to stop selling assault weapons:.

"Do we really want military grade people killers next to strollers? I don't think so," said Lori Haas from the Coalition to Stop Handgun Violence.

The proposal was also expected to include more money for school security.

The NRA wants to arm teachers - and some districts are considering that.

"It means that you'll have additional people to be on your side that are there at zero response time." Det. Lyle Baele/ Washington High School Resource Officer

On Tuesday, New York passed one of the nation's toughest gun laws.

"New York is doing something. Because we are fighting back," declared Governor Andrew Cuomo, (D) New York.

A new Washington Post poll found 58 percent now support an assault weapons ban.

The NRA says tougher laws will have no impact on crime or safety.

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