The Bill, AB 785, Which Closes Gap In California Law That Allows Individuals Convicted Of Hate Crimes To Possess Firearms, Now Goes To Governor Brown’s Desk
Today, Americans for Responsible Solutions (ARS), the gun violence prevention organization founded by former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and her husband, combat veteran and retired NASA astronaut Captain Mark Kelly, and its partner organization the Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, applauded the California Legislature for unanimously advancing a new bill, AB 785, which helps close a gap in California law that permits individuals convicted of hate crimes to possess and acquire firearms within 10 years of conviction. The bill now goes to Governor Brown’s desk.
Peter Ambler, Executive Director, Americans for Responsible Solutions:
“The disturbing scenes we saw play out in the streets of Charlottesville are just one example of the hate that plagues our communities every day. The reality of hate-fueled crime is why it’s so important for elected leaders to do everything in their power to keep guns out of the hands of individuals who wish to terrorize and divide our communities. Today, California’s leaders acted, delivering a bipartisan victory that will help close a gaping loophole in California law that allows people convicted of hate crimes to own and obtain guns. Governor Brown should sign this bipartisan bill into law and add California’s name to the growing list of states across the country that have taken responsible steps that make it harder for hate crime offenders to access guns.”
Robyn Thomas, Executive Director, Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence:
“We’ve ...