California adds giant tax on guns and ammunition

California hunters face stricter rules following the passage of several firearms and ammunition-related bills this week. Specifically, the bills signed into law by Governor Gavin Newson include one that will tax guns and ammunition purchases as well as add more restrictions on people seeking concealed carry weapons permits, according to Fox News.

AB 28, which was sponsored by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, will add an 11% excise tax to the purchase of guns and ammunition – money that will go “toward preventing gun violence and reducing the costs associated with the health and criminal justice systems when treating patients of gun violence,” acknowledged Gabriel. Note: this tax is in addition to the federal government tax; 10% of the sales price is imposed on pistols and revolvers, and a tax of 11% of the sales price is imposed on other portable weapons (e.g., rifles and shotguns) and ammunition.

Gabriel aligned the new law with the Pittman-Robertson Act, stating, “If we can have a tax to protect wildlife, we can have one that protects people.”

SB 2, which was sponsored by Sen. Anthony Portantino, was also signed into law on Tuesday, changing the rules for carrying concealed weapons going forward. Permit holders must now be at least 21. Concealed weapons will also be banned from the majority of public places like parks, schools, hospitals, government buildings, anywhere alcohol is sold and public demonstrations and gatherings.

“You as a responsible person with that permit will need to do a little work to know where it is allowed,” said Portantino.

Overall, 23 new laws regarding firearms and ammunition were signed into law. An overview can be found here.