Victory for Gun Sense: California Moms Demand Action, Everytown Applaud California State Legislature’s Passage of Legislation to Require Live Fire Training for Concealed Weapons License Applicants

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The California chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, part of Everytown for Gun Safety, today applauded the California Legislature for passing legislation that would require applicants for concealed weapons permits to demonstrate safe handling and firing of handguns. Last week, the Senate passed this legislation and a concurrence vote in the Assembly sent the bill to Governor Brown’s desk today.

Under current California state law, it is legal for a person who has never fired a gun to carry a concealed, loaded handgun in public – despite evidence that shows that comprehensive gun safety training can meaningfully impact public safety. In California, before a person can carry a concealed handgun in public, they must obtain a license to carry a concealed weapon, and all applicants must show proof that they have completed a course in firearm safety training that includes instruction on firearm safety and current gun laws. However, state law does not require applicants to demonstrate an ability to safely handle and fire a gun.

Many localities in the state have addressed this gap in the law by requiring that applicants for concealed weapons permits receive live fire training. This bill would preserve this local policy and its passage would make California the twenty-sixth state to require that a person undergo live fire training before obtaining a permit to carry a concealed handgun in public.

STATEMENT FROM WENDY WHEATCROFT, VOLUNTEER CHAPTER LEADER WITH THE CALIFORNIA CHAPTER OF MOMS DEMAND ACTION FOR GUN SENSE IN AMERICA:

“This legislation will solidify California’s status as a leader in gun safety. This bill can prevent tragedy before it strikes by ensuring concealed weapons holders demonstrate that they can operate a firearm safely. I am grateful to Assemblymember Todd Gloria for his continued support and commitment to gun safety, and I urge Governor Brown to swiftly sign this common-sense bill into law.”