House advances gun package as Senate mulls own changes

Rep. Peter Welch, D-Vt. File photo by Kristopher Radder/Brattleboro ReformerWASHINGTON — The House advanced a package of changes to federal firearms laws Wednesday that includes a controversial measure easing restrictions on carrying concealed guns across state lines.
Meanwhile, a Senate committee took testimony on two bills that have some support across party lines: One would strengthen the national background check system; the other would crack down on devices that increase the firing ra