A new California gun control law geared towards “stopping” firearms advertising to minors is already having a negative impact on youth shooting sports and hunting in the Golden State.
In June, the legislature approved Assembly Bill 2571—a bill allegedly aimed at stopping gun violence in response to the horrific Uvalde, Texas, mass shooting.
AB 2571 prohibits “a firearm industry member, as defined, from advertising or marketing any firearm-related product, as defined, in a manner that is designed, intended, or reasonably appears to be attractive to minors.” If anyone is found in violation of the statute, the civil penalty is $25,000 for each violation.
Governor Gavin Newsom (D-CA) proudly signed the bill into law and declared, “Those who are backing this industry can no longer market to our children. The idea that we even have to do this is ridiculous.”
“This law by the way goes into effect immediately. Because decent human beings, people with common sense, know that we should not be allowing this kind of disgusting marketing to go on another day.”
Unsurprisingly, the legislation won’t deter crimes involving firearms. Instead, it’s expected to trample on lawful gun advertising, which is protected under the First Amendment. Additionally, the law is already forcing youth organizations to disband.