A bill that would place tough new restrictions on ammunition purchases in California has passed its first committee vote in the state legislature. But opponents say it could prevent parents from teaching their children how to shoot.
Under a proposed law working its way through the State Capitol, those who purchase ammunition in California would be required to buy from a licensed dealer and show a legal ID to take it home.
Democratic Assembly member Nancy Skinner said her bill’s restrictions are both reasonable and necessary.
“Why is it easier now to buy bullets than to buy alcohol, cigarettes or Sudafed?” Skinner said.
But Republican Assembly member Marie Waldron said the bill would cost the state money.
“Folks are just going to cross state lines and purchase their ammo there. We’re going to lose the tax revenue here in the state of California when we much need it,” Waldron said.
Republicans also said the bill as it’s currently written could unintentionally prevent parents from giving their children ammunition while teaching them how to shoot.
The measure passed the Assembly Public Safety Committee on Tuesday on party lines. It has needs to pass through one more committee vote to reach the Assembly floor.
