California is already known for having the toughest gun control laws in the United States. With Proposition 63, the rule requiring background checks for ammo purchases, taking effect on July 1, 2019, the state takes another step toward regulating gun laws. Michael Schwartz, Executive Director of the San Diego Gun Owners PAC, believes the new law will lead criminals to conspire or team up with people out of state to supply bullets for their guns. This could result in more guns and crime in California, but the Safety for All Act of 2016 still seeks to prevent this from happening.
The Safety for All Act of 2016
The Proposition, known as the Safety for All Act of 2016, will:
- Keep guns and ammunition out of the hands of those prohibited by law from possessing them;
- Require background checks for ammunition;
- Ensure vendors report lost or missing ammunition;
- Make sure the state shares information with federal agencies concerning who cannot have guns;
- Report lost or stolen guns to the police;
- Require people to give up their firearms when convicted;
- Ban military-style ammunition magazines; and
- Take guns out of the hands of those who steal them.
Finally, this law also means that those who sell ammo must register for a license to do so. This law now makes the sale of ammo and magazines similar to the regulation of gun sales.
No, You Cannot Buy Ammo Outside of California and Bring it Back
Citizens of California cannot buy ammo out of state and bring it back. In an article from 10 News San Diego Mr. Schwartz states, “If you’re Californian, and you go out of state to get ammunition and bring it back into the State of California, you’ve just broken the law. But if you live in another state, you can bring as much ammunition as you want into the state and give it to anybody in California that you like.”
Proposition 63 Divides Californians
As you know, those who oppose Proposition 63 and those in favor of the law stand on opposite sides of the fence and are in a constant battle when it comes to California’s regulations of guns and ammo. Some argue the law will fuel an underground market for criminals. Others, like Ron Markus, the spokesperson for San Diegans for Gun Violence Prevention, say the law will provide more checks and balances so the state has a better idea of to whom ammo is sold.
Regardless of what side of the fence you are on, if you find yourself in a violent crime situation involving a firearm, you need a qualified criminal lawyer to protect your freedom.
Reach out to a Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you are facing charges for a violent crime committed with a gun, contact David M. Boertje, the San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney. Mr. Boertje has experience handling misdemeanor and felony cases and has obtained successful results such as dismissals, not-guilty verdicts, reduced charges, and favorable plea bargains. Call toll free at 888-476-0901 or complete the form online for a free consultation. Affordable payment plans are available.