The removal of the felony charge for owning a silencer could significantly impact state laws around firearms by easing restrictions for lawful gun owners. Previously, any possession of a silencer resulted in severe penalties, which many argued unjustly hindered recreational hunting practices. By allowing the use of silencers during licensed hunting activities, SB 710 seeks to align state laws with advocates for the right to bear arms and those favoring hunting efficiency.
Senate Bill 710, introduced by Senator Anderson, aims to amend California's firearm laws specifically concerning the possession and use of silencers. The bill proposes to delete the existing felony prohibition on the possession of silencers, which is currently punishable by imprisonment or a hefty fine. Instead, the bill would allow individuals who are legally in possession of such devices to use them for hunting purposes, provided they are licensed for the game being hunted and possess the firearm legally to which the silencer is attached.
Despite its intent to provide more freedom for hunters and gain support from various constituents, the bill has garnered criticism and concerns from gun control advocates. Opponents fear that loosening regulations on silencers may lead to wider misuse of firearms, complicating law enforcement efforts and potentially increasing illegal activities. Additionally, the repeal of a felony charge could be seen as a regression in public safety initiatives aimed at controlling the use of firearms in urban environments.