The California chapters of Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action, both part of Everytown for Gun Safety, released the following statement applauding California Governor Gavin Newsom for signing into law legislation to establish accountability for the firearm industry. AB 1594 holds bad actors in the firearm industry accountable by establishing a firearm industry standard of conduct, and authorizes victims of harm from firearms in California, the Attorney General, or city or county attorneys to bring a civil action against a firearm industry member for violating that standard. The code of conduct aims to prevent the sale of firearms to prohibited possessors and straw purchasers, to stop firearm theft, and to prevent the sale or marketing of illegal weapons. Thousands of volunteers in California have reached out to lawmakers in support of the gun violence prevention legislation.
“We are proud that Governor Newsom is prioritizing gun safety and addressing the critical need for firearm industry accountability,” said Krystal LoPilato, a volunteer with the California chapter of Moms Demand Action. “While there is more work to be done to end gun violence, the signing of this bill sends a clear message reaffirming California’s status as a leader in the fight against gun violence.”
“Gun manufacturers that have helped fuel the gun violence epidemic in this country for too long have gone without being held accountable for their reckless and dangerous actions,” said Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action and California resident. “Thanks to leadership by gun sense lawmakers and relentless advocacy from our grassroots army, California is helping turn the tide and bring real accountability.”
Following years of advocacy from Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action volunteers, and members of the Everytown Survivor Network, the California State Legislature has passed five gun safety prevention bills. Just last week Governor Newsom signed into law AB 2571, legislation to prohibit the gun industry from marketing firearms-related to minors and AB 1621, legislation to further regulate ghost guns. The Governor is expected to sign the remaining two bills, which include AB 2156, legislation to crack down on the manufacture of firearms–including 3D printing–by unlicensed persons, and SB 1327, legislation to allow private individuals to sue people who illegally make or sell assault weapons or ghost gun parts, or who sell guns to those under 21.
Gun violence is the leading cause of death for children and teens in California. Every year, over 3,100 Californians are shot and killed and over 6,800 are wounded. More information about gun violence in California is available here.