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Jerry Brown Signs Law Banning Shotgun, Rifle Sales To Those Under 21

REUTERS/Fred Greaves/File Photo

David Krayden Ottawa Bureau Chief
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California Gov. Jerry Brown signed legislation Friday that will ban the sale of shotguns and rifles to those under the age of 21.

It is already illegal to purchase a handgun in California, unless you’re 21 or older, according to the San Jose Mercury News(RELATED: California Bill Would Have Suicidal People Relinquish Second Amendment Rights)

The bill was introduced by Democratic state Sen. Anthony Portantino, who said the February mass shooting in Parkland, Fla. gave him the impetus to promote the legislation.

Portantino said in a Friday statement he was “very grateful to Governor Brown for his leadership in signing this important bill.”

The legislation brought swift condemnation from Second Amendment activists at The Firearms Policy Coalition.

“Governor Brown just told millions of people under 21 that they can fight and die for our state and country with machine guns, but they can’t buy a gun for self-defense in their homes,” tweeted spokesman Craig DeLuz. “That’s nuts.”

There are some exemptions in the legislation that will allow those under 21 in the police forces and military to possess a firearm. Hunters must be licensed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to receive a similar pass.

The legislation also requires anyone applying for a concealed weapons permit to first receive a day-long training course and then successfully complete a live-fire shooting test.

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