This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
Governor Schwarzenegger signs new ammunition law
Governor Schwarzenegger signs into law a bill restricting ammunition sales. Democratic State Assemblyman Kevin DeLeon (left) of Los Angeles authored the legislation.
(
Governor's Office
)
Listen
0:54
Governor Schwarzenegger signs new ammunition law
Governor Schwarzenegger signs new ammunition law
Governor Schwarzenegger Thursday signed into law new restrictions on ammunition sales.
The new law requires gun dealers to keep information on who buys bullets, and makes it illegal to knowingly sell handgun ammunition to people banned from owning firearms.
The governor rejected a similar bill last year.
"I’m a firm believer, of course, in the Second Amendment – the right of every law abiding citizen to bear arms. That is why I've consistently rejected bills that unnecessarily restrict that right."
But Schwarzenegger said he could support this bill, authored by Democratic State Assemblyman Kevin DeLeon.
"This bill, appropriate balance protecting the rights of the gun owners and protecting the rights of the people to feel safe and secure in their communities."
The new law, which takes effect next year, also requires vendors of handgun ammunition transfers and sales to store ammunition behind the counter or in a secure manner, and requires the face-to-face transfer of ammunition sales.
Sponsored message
Thirteen California cities, including L.A., already have similar laws.
Gun control advocates say their effect is limited because regulations remain a patchwork across the country, so it’s easy to buy bullets on what remains a robust black market.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
