The Senate will vote Wednesday on a series of gun measures that may determine the shape of legislation inspired by the shootings in Newtown, Conn. Senators took to the floor on Wednesday morning to make their case for amendments including some that are supported largely by Democrats, like a provision expanding background checks to firearms bought at gun shows or on the Internet; a reinstatement of an assault weapons ban; and a ban on high-capacity ammunition magazines. Other have Republican backing: a mandate that any state permit for carrying a concealed weapon be honored by virtually every other state, a broad alternative gun measure aimed at mental health care and school safety, and another helping veterans clear their names to obtain firearms. Votes are expected in the afternoon.
