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Annenberg School of Communication and Journalism University of Southern California
Southern California

LA City Council Votes For New Gun Regulations

The unanimous vote puts more restrictions on guns in residences

In a unanimous vote, the Los Angeles City Council voted to approve a city ordinance that will place new restrictions on guns in the home. 

The ordinance, which passed 14-0, requires gun owners to either keep their firearms in locked storage containers or disabled with a trigger lock if they are not within arms reach. The ordinance has aimed to lower the number of accidental deaths due to gun violence within Los Angeles.

According to 2013 statistics, there were only 27 police officers who were shot and killed in the line of duty compared to 82 children under the age of four who were shot dead. These statistics brought forth emotional testimony from the bill's author City Council Member Paul Krekorian during Tuesday's meeting. 

"It is unacceptable to live in a world where it is more dangerous to be a preschooler than a police officer," Krekorian said. "And we can do something about that today."

The debate does not stop at the steps of city hall. In fact, across the city, many warn that this added regulation could cost the lives of those who depend on keeping guns close in the event of a home invasion. 

"What it comes down to is that this is a violation of a person's right to defend themself," said Brandon Combs, the Executive Director of The Calguns Foundation. "The extra few seconds could make all the difference."

At a press conference following the City Council meeting, some asked how the the new ordinance would be enforced. 

In response, Krekorian said that there would not be "comprehensive dragnets," but that the ordinance will come into play after accidental shootings and during domestic violence calls. 

"Los Angeles has a long history of violating the fourth amendment rights of residents," said Combs of The Calguns Foundation. "For them to say that is talking out of both sides of their mouth."

Today's vote will send the ordinance to the desk of the mayor where he has ten days to sign. If Mayor Garcetti does ultimately sign the bill, it will go into effect in 30 days. 

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