With the rise in active shooting events over the past year, California isn’t wasting any time trying to turn the tables on illegal gun makers.
Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed a new California law that allows local governments and Californians alike to sue gun makers. This comes into contrast with the Protection of Lawful Commerce In Arms Act signed by Congress in 2005, which shields gun manufacturers from civil suits.
“Gun violence is now the leading cause of death among kids and teens in the United States, surpassing car accidents. I see no better argument for stronger gun safety legislation. I thank the Governor for signing AB 1594,” said Assemblymember Phil Ting (D-San Francisco) in a statement.
“For far too long, the firearms industry has enjoyed federal immunity from civil lawsuits, providing them no incentive for them to follow our laws. Hitting their bottom line may finally compel them to step up to reduce gun violence by preventing illegal sales and theft.”
The only real question is to what extent the law may go – and how it will affect legitimate gun sellers who try to sell their goods to private citizens and organizations assigned to protect others.
Here now to speak further on the matter is Stephen Willeford. Stephen serves as a spokesman for Gun Owners of America. You may recall in 2017 how he stopped the Sutherland Springs, Texas mass shooting, acting as the “good guy with a gun.” His expertise is certainly welcome in this matter.
Q&A:
- The California law signed by Governor Newsom seems to go against the Protection of Lawful Commerce In Arms Act signed by Congress in 2005. How likely is it that others may object as a result?
- What effect do you think the law will have on those that are just trying to sell guns to private citizens or organizations? Is there a possibility they’ll fear being sued?
- Is it possible that other states could try to have their own version of the law as well? Or are they taking the “wait and see” approach?
- Is there another course of action that Newsom and his fellow government workers should focus on in regards to obtaining illegal guns? Perhaps something more supportive towards concealed-carry?
- Gun groups have been up in arms before over previous bans surrounding guns, namely with advertising. How do you think they’re going to feel about this new legislation?
- Where can we learn more about you and your current work with the Gun Owners of America?
My official website is http://www.stephenwilleford.com. You can read more about the Gun Owners of America at https://www.gunowners.org/.
About Stephen Willeford:
Stephen represents the Gun Owners of America and is known around the country as the “good guy with the gun” for helping stop the largest Texas mass shooting in the history of the state in 2017. He is available to speak about all 2nd Amendment issues, as well as the importance of the Gun Owners of America. You can read more about him at http://www.stephenwilleford.com.
CONTACT: Gerald McGlothlin at: jerry.specialguests@gmail.com
