Assemblyman Jack Scott from Pasadena has introduced AB 273 that would create a state-run handgun licensing/ registration program. To obtain a handgun through purchase, loan, gift, bequest or transfer, a person would have to obtain, renew & maintain a state handgun license.

To obtain a license a person would have to do the following:

1. Obtain a license application from local law enforcement agency and pay a minimum of $12.00 for processing. The applicant will be fingerprinted.
2. Take a state designed written test that covers firearms laws, storage, legal use of lethal force and answer at least 75% of the questions correctly. Cost $$ yet to be determined
3. Perform and pass a state designed safe firearms handling demonstration with various firearms designated by the state with a state licensed instructor. Cost $$ yet to be determined.
4. Perform state designed and pass a basic shooting proficiency demonstration with a state licensed instructor. Cost $$ yet to be determined.

After completing steps 1-4 and paying the associated state fees, handgun classes/testing fees, the applicant would then submit the application with all documentation to the local law enforcement agency which would then submit it to the California DOJ with in 2 business days. The applicant will pay an additional $20.00 fee for DOJ to process all documents and the application sent in.

The DOJ upon receipt of paperwork, will have 10 days to complete a background check of applicant. The DOJ will then send a handgun license to applicant via U.S. mail.

Once in possession of the license, a person may go to a gun store and apply to purchase a handgun and pay an additional $15.00 background check and handgun registration fee (D.R.O.S.) per handgun. The applicant must also, wait an additional 10 days.

Under provisions of the proposed law, if you fail to correctly report your change of address and/or other requirements under the conditions of your license, you will be fined $100 and the license suspended for one year with your first violation. On a second violation, you will be fined $100 and your license suspended for 5 years. With a third violation, you will face criminal prosecution and your license will permanently be suspended for the rest of your life.

Note! The above outline does not list all the onerous provisions of the bill, just some of the highlights!!

The bill next goes to the Senate Appropriations Committee. Please call them and ask them to vote NO on AB273. The hearing will take place between August 7th and the 18th.