Guns are a hot-button topic in America, as such, changing laws regarding gun use and ownership is notoriously challenging. We do not have to remind you of the most recent massacres and school shootings for you to know that firearms are a significant issue in the United States.

Most Americans are well aware that powerful gun lobbies and the manufacturers that fund them go to significant lengths to obstruct any legislation that would make buying a gun more difficult. What’s more, many politicians’ campaigns receive large sums of money in an effort to prevent lawmakers from getting behind what are known as “common-sense gun laws.”

Each state has the right to enact laws regarding gun ownership as they see fit. Some states have strict firearm laws, while others make it pretty easy for just about any adult to acquire a handgun or rifle.

It will probably come as little surprise California is leading the charge in making it harder for specific individuals to buy a gun. Three new laws will go into effect in 2020 that will hopefully reduce gun violence.

Buying a Gun Will Be More Difficult in 2020

On January 1, 2020, Assembly Bill 12, Assembly Bill 1968, and Senate Bill 61 will go into effect, according to ABC 10 reports. Below we will break down the coming changes, starting with AB 12.

In California, family members or a law enforcement officer can request a judge to issue a gun violence restraining order on someone. They must prove that an individual poses danger to him or herself or others, according to the article. The order lasts a year and can be terminated early or extended after 365 days. AB 12 changes how long a restraining order can last from one to five years; it also allows a law enforcement officer to request a restraining order on behalf of their agency.

Current law places a five-year ban on someone from owning a gun if they are admitted to a mental health center for being a danger to themselves or others, the article reports. Individuals who are found not guilty of a crime by reason of insanity are prohibited from owning a gun unless a judge finds that he or she had “recovered sanity.” AB 1968 places a lifetime gun ownership ban on an individual admitted to a mental health center, because they were either a danger to themselves or others. Said persons could petition the court to have the ban lifted, and it would be up to the district attorney to prove he or she is still a danger.

Existing law prevents Californians from buying more than one handgun a month. SB 61 enhances current law to include the purchase of rifles. The bill also restricts men and women under the age of 21 from buying a gun.

California Criminal Defense Attorney

Please reach out to the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower if you are facing criminal charges in California. Attorney Brower has a long history of achieving favorable outcomes for various types of criminal cases. He may be able to help you, or a loved one similarly.