"This will give California
one of the strongest handgun safety licenses in the country."
---Luis Tolley, Western Director of the gun ban lobby
formally known as HCI
As the Legislature wrapped up the first half of the 2001/02 session, two measures, AB 35 (Shelley) and SB 52 (Scott), passed out of both houses with a bare majority and are now on the Governor`s desk. Despite the fact that both bills have been altered significantly, and any mention of licensing has been removed to include "certificate," it is vital that NRA members, friends and family contact Governor Davis (D) and ask him to veto these dangerous proposals.
Key provisions that remain in AB 35 and SB 52 of grave concern are the removal of the exemptions for licensed hunters and retired veterans from the requirement to obtain the Handgun Safety Certificate, formerly called the Basic Firearms Safety Certificate (BFSC). Those individuals that have served our country courageously, as well as those persons who have undergone hunter safety courses, now must take a written test, demonstrate safe handling procedures, and give a thumbprint before receiving permission to purchase a handgun. In addition to the increased regulations, the shelf life of the certificate is only five years, in comparison to the current BFSC, which is good for life.
October 14 is the deadline for Governor Davis to either veto, sign, or allow to become law legislation currently before him. It is vital that you contact the Governor`s office as soon as possible and request his veto of AB 35 and SB 52 - and ask him to stand with retired veterans, licensed hunters, and law enforcement in opposition to these bills (contact numbers below). Thank you!
Sacramento (916) 445-2841
Fresno (559) 445-5295
Los Angeles (213) 897-0322
San Diego (619) 525-4641
Riverside (909) 680-6860
San Francisco (415) 703-2218