The Senate rejected a compromise proposal to expand background checks on gun purchases.
According to AP, the 54-46 vote came on an amendment by Sens. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., and Pat Toomey, R-Pa. Sixty votes were necessary to get around a filibuster.
The Senate will now take votes on other amendments, including one to ban assault weapons and limit the size of magazine clips, as well as a package of legislation addressing mental health issues.
Also being considered is a substitute plan unveiled that would tighten the background check database but not expand the types of sales subject to it.