Press Release

Governor Signs Bill to Protect Californians from Illegal Firearms

Sacramento, CA – Governor Gavin Newsom has signed SB 704 by Senator Jesse Arreguín (D-Oakland). The bill builds upon California’s leadership on common sense gun control by requiring the purchase of a firearm barrel be done in person through a licensed dealer, and with a background check conducted on the purchaser. Such requirements already exist for purchasing a firearm.

“Californians have made it clear that reducing violent crimes is a priority, and removing illegal guns from our streets is a proven way to stop criminals from terrorizing our communities,” said Senator Arreguín, Chair of the Senate Public Safety Committee. “SB 704 provides a simple solution that will make it more difficult for lawbreakers to obtain illegal firearms, while respecting the 2nd Amendment rights of responsible gun owners.” 

SB 704 will help curb the proliferation of ghost guns, which are not serialized and therefore cannot be traced. Such weapons are becoming increasingly popular with criminals. In 2022, AB 1621 was enacted into law, which banned the sale of ghost guns and ghost gun kits. However, the use of emerging technologies such as 3D printing are being used to circumnavigate firearm regulations. While many components of ghost guns can be constructed through 3D printing, the firearm barrel, a key component, cannot be practically constructed through this method. As a result, people are resorting to the purchasing of such components to complete the manufacturing of a ghost gun. 

“California continues to lead the nation in passing common-sense solutions to free America from gun violence,” said Kris Brown, President of Brady “SB 704 will create meaningful barriers to people illegally manufacturing 3D-printed ghost guns, by requiring that gun barrels be sold only by licensed gun dealers and that those sales are subject to a background check. We applaud the Governor for signing this proactive measure to regulate gun barrels to stop the proliferation of 3D printed ghost guns and save American lives.” 

Currently, firearm barrels are unregulated and can be purchased online without restrictions or background checks. This loophole allows people who are prohibited from owning firearms to manufacture a firearm illegally. Background checks on firearms are very popular, with a 2023 Fox News survey showing 87% of Americans supporting it. SB 704 keeps up with emerging technologies by requiring background checks on one of the most critical components of a firearm, which will help reduce the spread of ghost guns. 

 

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