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California’s Gun Violence Prevention Measures
As the country’s leader in gun safety, California has already taken many actions to keep you safe.
Learn more about these protections below.
Background Checks and Certificates
All gun sales and transfers require people to pass a background check and written safety test to get their Firearm Safety Certificate.
Mental Health Reporting
If a person is sent to the hospital because they might hurt themselves or others and they have a gun, the doctor must report it. That person can’t have or buy guns for a while.
Age Limit
You must be 21 to buy a gun in California.
Suing for Illegal Guns
People in California can sue someone who gives out illegal guns.
Waiting Period
You must wait 10 days after buying a gun to take it home.
Banned Weapons
Assault weapons, large magazines and ghost guns (guns that cannot be traced) are not allowed in California.
Safe Storage
Guns must be locked up safely. If a child or someone else gets it, the owner can be charged with a crime.
Lost or Stolen Guns
If your gun is lost or stolen, you must tell the police within five days.
Microstamping
Starting in 2028, new semiautomatic guns must leave a special mark on bullet casings to help police solve crimes.
Gun and Ammo Tax
Guns and bullets are taxed 11%. This money helps fund programs to stop gun violence.
Resources
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