Gun Control Debate: Manchin, Toomey Strike Background Check Compromise

Two senators with an “A” rating from the National Rifle Association have brokered a compromise on gun buyer background checks, which they announced Wednesday morning as lawmakers try to craft a 2013 gun control package.

Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., announced the deal with Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., at his side.

The deal will not be the universal background checks President Barack Obama originally hoped for in the immediate aftermath of the Sandy Hook massacres. Moreover, the background checks that could be included in the Senate Democrats’ gun control bill will reportedly exclude some transactions -- for example, those conducted between family members, according to that report.

The measure will expand checks to include gun shows and online sales, however.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., gave the two senators until 5 p.m. Tuesday to work up a compromise in light of more than 12 Republicans promising a filibuster of any gun control legislation offered.

Reid moved Tuesday to start debate on the gun control bill, filing a cloture motion with a vote to end the filibuster to come Thursday. Democrats will need 60 votes to clear this hurdle.