Politics & Government

CoCo Dems Call for Tests, Licenses and Insurance for Gun Owners

The resolution will be presented at the state party convention in April.

Arguing that guns are as deadly as automobiles and that “the true cost of guns to society is horrific,” the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County is asking the statewide party to support legislation that places on gun ownership and use the same degree of regulation and oversight imposed on cars.

The resolution calls for requiring Californians to pass tests, obtain licenses, and possess insurance before being lawfully allowed to own guns. 

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Approved in February and announced in a press release Tuesday, the resolution will be presented at the state party convention in April. The full text of the resolution is below.

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RESOLUTION SUPPORTING Legislation that treats guns like cars

WHEREAS, there about as many guns as cars in the US, and that many Americans die as a result of gun violence as through car accidents. Also, as a matter of public safety, as it became mandatory to make laws concerning cars, drivers and driving, it is now imperative to legislate and enforce similar laws concerning guns, gun owners and gun use.

WHEREAS, the true cost of guns to society is horrific. Those who insist they must own guns should bare the cost. The measures suggested here are similar to those measures that are acceptable to drivers. Those who insist on driving accept the costs; gun owners must do the same.

WHEREAS if the recommended legislation is enacted and enforced, the ramifications will include: (1) Gun schools with licensed instructors and gun insurance companies that will create jobs; (2) a licensing agency, funded by licensing fees, that will also create jobs; (3) a licensing agency that will also be responsible for mental health testing of license applicants and for inspections, that will create even more jobs; (4) secure gun storage facilities, particularly at firing ranges and hunting areas, that could be an even further economic stimulus.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the DPCCC supports legislation that requires gun owners to be tested and licensed, with renewals of both at regular intervals. Such tests shall include knowledge of gun safety and mental health examinations. Gun safety classes shall be required prior to licensing. Furthermore, there shall be multiple levels of licensing for hand guns, hunting weapons, assault weapons and heavier artillery. A valid gun owner license shall also be required to purchase ammunition. Unlicensed guns will be confiscated. Using a gun under the influence of a controlled substance may cause the gun owner’s license to be revoked and the weapon confiscated.

THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED Every gun owner shall be insured to cover damages that may be caused by the discharge of any weapon. Licensed gun owners must insure all the guns they own and must be able to produce proof of insurance whenever they carry such weapons. All guns must be stored at a secure facility making them reasonably inaccessible to those who are not licensed and insured to use guns. Those facilities may be inspected by government agents  to determine if they are sufficiently secured.

 


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