Portantino Sends Two Gun Control Bills to the Governor – Continues His Leadership on Gun Safety Issues

Sacramento, CA- As the legislative session comes to a close, SB 1100 and SB 1177  authored by Senator Anthony J. Portantino (D–La Cañada Flintridge) passed both the Senate and Assembly and are headed to the Governor’s desk. The actions further establish Portantino’s legacy as one of California’s leaders for sensible gun control.  SB 1100 raises the age for all gun purchases to 21 after the recent tragedy at Stoneman Douglas High School.  SB 1177 prohibits the purchase of more than one long gun a month. Both bills make California law consistent for hand guns and long guns.

“I am so glad to have the support of my colleagues to make California a safer place to live and raise a family.   As a dad and a legislator, I am determined to help California respond appropriately to the tragic events our country has recently faced.  I feel it is imperative that California leads when Washington refuses to act. These bills create simple fixes to existing California law to help the safety of every citizen,” commented Senator Portantino.

Under current law, people under the age of 21 years are prohibited from purchasing a handgun. However, the minimum age to purchase a long-gun, such as a riffle, is 18 years. SB 1100 increases the minimum age to purchase a long-gun, with certain exceptions, to provide parity with the state’s existing handgun laws. SB 1177 does the same in regard to the frequency of long gun purchases.

Previously, Senator Portantino was the author legislation to outlaw the open carry of unloaded handguns and long guns.  Portantino has worked closely with the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence during his tenure in the legislature.

SB 1100 is supported by Los Angeles County Division, League of California Cities, League of California Cities, California Contract Cities Association, Cerritos Regional Chamber of Commerce, City of Los Angeles, City of Burbank, City of Pasadena, City of La Cañada Flintridge, City of Duarte, City of Glendale, City of Signal Hill, City of Thousand Oaks, City of Norwalk, and City of Carson.

SB 1177 is supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Bay Area Student Activists, California Chapters of the Brady Campaign to prevent Gun Violence, City of Santa Monica, and Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence.

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