The CDC created the "vacuum" when they realized unbiased research doesn't support their view. They can perform gun research, they simply can't promote gun control. 

Via the LA Times: 

The vacuum in gun violence research in America is slowly being filled by independent organizations. The latest to accept the responsibility for studying one of our most pressing public health crises is Kaiser Permanente, the giant healthcare system, which this week announced a $2-million program to study how to prevent gun injuries and deaths.

With more than 12 million members and a presence in communities with 65 million residents, says Bechara Choucair, the organization's chief community health officer, "we feel a responsibility to address public health issues, and gun violence is one of those issues."

Read more here.