Members of Connecticut's congressional delegation are urging national retailers to voluntarily take steps to reduce gun violence by barring guns from their establishments.

Sens. Richard Blumenthal, Chris Murphy and Rep. Elizabeth Esty said Friday they also hope the retail industry will become part of a coalition that will put pressure on Congress to pass gun control legislation originally proposed after the 2012 shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

The failed proposal included expanded criminal background checks for firearms sales and a ban on illegal trafficking. It fell five votes short in the Senate.

The lawmakers, who sent a letter to the National Retail Federation, said the industry has strong influence in Washington.

A federation spokesman said the industry is committed to ensuring gun sales laws are followed and enforced.

They were joined by Carlee Soto.  Her sister Victoria was one of six educators killed on December 14th.