Lead ammunition: shooting ranges.
The implementation of AB 3071 is expected to significantly enhance public health and safety by reducing the risks associated with lead exposure in shooting environments. By requiring all ammunition sold and used at these facilities to be nonlead certified, the bill seeks to protect both patrons and employees from the toxic effects of lead, particularly considering the vulnerable populations like children who could be negatively impacted by lead exposure.
Assembly Bill 3071, introduced by Assembly Member Mullin, aims to address the harmful effects of lead ammunition in California's shooting ranges. The legislation mandates that only nonlead ammunition may be sold, given away, or discharged at sport shooting ranges and indoor shooting ranges, which are at high risk for leading exposure. This bill builds on California's previous efforts to restrict lead ammunition for hunting, highlighting the ongoing dangers posed by lead exposure to humans and the environment.
Overall, AB 3071 represents a progressive step in California's legislative measures to protect public health from environmental toxins. By extending the ban on lead ammunition beyond hunting to include recreational shooting, the bill seeks to foster safer shooting practices that align with contemporary understanding of toxic exposure and public health imperatives.
Supporters of AB 3071 advocate for its public health benefits, pointing to the evidence that nonlead ammunition does not perform worse than lead ammunition and may even exceed its effectiveness. However, there may be opposition from segments of the shooting sports community concerned about the increased costs associated with implementing this legislation. Fear of losing traditional shooting methods or a lack of availability of nonlead alternatives could be points of contention in discussions.