By adding Sections 12022.54 and 29807 to the Penal Code, AB 758 enhances penalties, notably introducing terms of imprisonment for offenders. A person armed with an unmarked firearm during the commission of a felony will face a mandatory minimum additional punishment of two years, while the use of such a firearm carries an even heavier penalty of three years. Furthermore, the bill addresses individuals who are already prohibited from possessing firearms, ensuring that those caught in violation with unmarked firearms face an additional year in prison. These stipulations aim to deter criminal activity involving firearms and enhance public safety.
Assembly Bill 758, introduced by Assembly Member Dixon, aims to strengthen the existing laws concerning firearms in California. This bill, effective January 1, 2024, introduces additional sentencing enhancements for individuals found to be using or possessing firearms that lack a valid state or federal serial number or mark of identification during specific criminal offenses. The primary goal of AB 758 is to impose stricter penalties on firearm-related crimes by targeting illegal firearms more comprehensively.
Notably, AB 758 does not require state reimbursement for local agencies and school districts for any costs incurred due to these new crime definitions or penalties, as specified in the California Constitution. This provision may raise concerns among local governments regarding financial liabilities and the potential repercussions on local law enforcement resources. The imposition of new crimes and penalties without reimbursement could be seen as shifting the burden onto local jurisdictions, which could foster debates on the adequacy of state funding for supporting such enhancements in law enforcement.