Firearms and ammunition: excise tax.
The bill represents a significant shift in how gun sales are taxed in California, by aiming to generate funds specifically for programs that mitigate the impacts of gun violence. The funds collected will help finance violence intervention programs and initiatives that support schools in becoming safer environments for students. This measure aligns with existing state initiatives surrounding violence prevention, potentially enhancing the capacity for local agencies and community organizations to address increased demands for safety in schools and neighborhoods. The increase in taxes may be contentious among firearm retailers and users, as it places an additional financial burden on them.
Assembly Bill No. 28, also known as the Gun Violence Prevention and School Safety Act, aims to impose an 11% excise tax on the retail sale of firearms, firearm precursor parts, and ammunition in California, effective July 1, 2024. The revenue generated from this tax is designated for the Gun Violence Prevention and School Safety Fund, which will finance various programs focused on gun violence prevention, education, research, response, and investigation. It establishes a systematic approach to channeling funding from firearm sales towards initiatives aimed at enhancing community safety and reducing gun-related incidents.
The general sentiment surrounding AB 28 is divided. Proponents advocate for the bill as a necessary step to address the public health crisis of gun violence, especially among children and young adults, emphasizing that the funds will be allocated to crucial prevention and intervention services. Conversely, critics view the measure as an infringement on Second Amendment rights and argue that the tax could discourage lawful gun ownership and sales. Discussions encompass broader themes of public safety versus individual rights, with considerable lobbying from both sides influencing public perception.
Some notable points of contention involve the potential implications of the excise tax on local businesses and the broader gun culture in California. While the bill includes exemptions for active or retired law enforcement officers and outlines the fiscal administration of the collected funds, the requirement for a two-thirds legislative approval to change tax laws underlines its controversial nature. Additionally, the bill provides that no reimbursement is required from the state for costs incurred by local agencies due to the bill’s mandate, which some local governments may view as an unfair burden.