Two US lawmakers are proposing that a Taiwanese-American doctor who was recently killed while confronting a shooter be awarded for his bravery.
Katie Porter (D-CA) and Michelle Steel (R-CA) introduced a bill to posthumously present Dr. John Cheng with the Congressional Gold Medal, the US’ highest civilian honor. Both lawmakers described Cheng as a “hero.”
On May 15, a gunman fired on a congregation at the Geneva Presbyterian Church in Laguna Woods, California. Cheng, who was attending a church event with his mother, attempted to disarm the shooter, but was shot dead. However, Cheng’s actions gave churchgoers a chance to intervene and disarm the gunman. Five other people were injured in the attack.
The US House of Representatives does not have explicit rules when it comes to handing out Congressional Gold Medals. However, the bill nominating Cheng will require two-thirds of the House members to endorse the draft bill before it can move onto the committee stage.