Firearms: sale by government entity.
The bill modifies the California Penal Code by prohibiting the sale of firearms and ammunition by governmental entities, reflecting a shift towards stricter regulations surrounding gun sales. This legislation specifically reinforces the idea that the disposal of firearms is a matter of statewide concern rather than being a local issue, thereby ensuring its applicability across all cities, including charter cities. This could significantly impact local policies regarding firearms disposal and strengthen the role of the state in regulating gun sales.
Assembly Bill 733, introduced by Assembly Member Mike Fong, aims to prohibit state and local government agencies from selling firearms, ammunition, and body armor. Under current law, law enforcement agencies have been allowed to dispose of seized or surrendered firearms primarily through destruction, but the proposed bill will extend this prohibition on sales to all state entities starting January 1, 2025. This legislative change is positioned as a response to concerns over gun sales by government entities and is viewed as critical for public safety.
The sentiment surrounding AB 733 appears to lean positively among advocates of stricter gun control laws, who argue that the bill will enhance public safety and prevent potential misuse of government resources for profit from firearms sales. Conversely, some opponents express concern that this might unnecessarily complicate lawful disposals or impede local agencies' abilities to manage firearms subject to their jurisdiction effectively. The discussions surrounding the bill indicate a clear divide between proponents of public safety initiatives and those who advocate for local governance authority.
Notable points of contention in discussions about AB 733 involve the balance between state mandates and local control. Critics worry that the blanket prohibition might hamper local law enforcement's flexibility to manage firearms that have been collected through various means, arguing that local agencies should have more autonomy in determining how to handle such items. Supporters counter that preventing bureaucratic sales of firearms can reduce risks and improve accountability, insisting that public safety should take precedence over potential local profits from such sales.