NEW ASSAULT ON SO-CALLED “ASSAULT WEAPONS”
The Legislature returned to Sacramento on January 4 and Democrat members seemed eager to “out-liberal” each other in their zeal to see who could introduce the most leftist anti-gun bills of 2016. Although the deadline for bill introduction isn’t until February 19, GOC is keeping a close eye on what’s happening under the dome because there is still plenty of time for the politicians to come up with an even greater array of extreme legislation.
Above and beyond that each proposal is authored by a legislator with a 2nd Amendment axe to grind, the most egregious bills have something in common: they are intent on redefining the phrase “assault weapon” – a non-technical term created years ago by the anti-gun crowd to illicit fear. The proposals seek to expand the definition to include firearms that are currently legally owned by many individuals, which could ultimately ban millions of guns. Those who own a gun with a “bullet button” will be required to register the firearm as an “assault weapon” or be subject to arrest, prosecution and confiscation. What’s more, the selling or passing of such guns to family members (whether through inheritance or as a gift) would be prohibited.
We won’t have an exhaustive list of all the bad stuff until the deadline passes, but as of this writing, we are tracking the following bills and will be posting our analysis of each once thoroughly evaluated (under our “LEGISLATION” tab, you can keep track of hearing dates, amendments, etc. – just click on “Action Report”). Note that legislative rules prohibit a bill from being heard until 30 days after its introduction.
This bill classifies a semiautomatic centerfire rifle that does not have a fixed magazine with the capacity to accept no more than 10 rounds as an “assault weapon” and requires a person who lawfully possessed an “assault weapon” that does not have a fixed magazine, including those weapons with an ammunition feeding device that can be removed readily from the firearm with the use of a tool (bullet button), and who possesses that firearm to register the it. OPPOSE
Relates to the possession or transfer of specified “assault weapons.” Defines detachable magazine. Exempts from punishment a person initially possessing such weapon prior to a specified date. Provides a registration deadline for such weapons in legal possession with the Department of Justice. Authorizes a registration fee, provides for Internet registration and requires regulations. OPPOSE
Expands the definition of firearm to include an unfinished frame or receiver that can be readily converted to the functional condition of a finished frame or receiver. OPPOSE
Expands the definition of firearm to include an unfinished frame or receiver that can be readily converted to the functional condition of a finished frame or receiver. Makes the 30‑day prohibition and the dealer delivery prohibition described in existing law applicable to all types of firearms. Deletes the private party transaction exemption to the 30‑day prohibition. OPPOSE
Requires a person, when leaving a handgun in a vehicle, to secure the handgun by locking it in the trunk of the vehicle or locking it in a locked container and placing the container out of plain view. Makes a violation of these requirements an infraction punishable by a fine. WATCH
Revises the definition of “assault weapon” to mean a semiautomatic centerfire rifle, or a semiautomatic pistol that does not have a fixed magazine but has any one of specified attributes. Exempts persons who possessed such weapons prior to a specified date from punishment. Requires persons possessing certain “assault weapons” prior to a specified date to register the firearm with the Department of Justice. Authorizes a related fee increase. Requires registrations to be done over the Internet with a related fee. OPPOSE
Urges the Congress to lift an existing prohibition against publicly funded scientific research on the causes of gun violence and its effects on public health and to appropriate funds for that research. OPPOSE