Kern sheriff: New gun law up to deputies to enforce — or not
Kern County Sheriff Donny Youngblood stated that his deputies will have the discretion to decide whether or not to enforce California’s new gun law. The law, titled Senate Bill 2, prohibits concealed carry weapons holders from bringing firearms into 26 public spaces, including schools, zoos, and hospitals. Private business owners, however, can choose to allow guns on their premises.
Youngblood, known for his conservative stance on gun control, expressed his reservations about the law, calling it an all-out attack on firearms and people who legally possess them. He argued that the law is attempting to solve a problem that doesn’t exist. The sheriff emphasized that concealed carry weapons (CCWs) are intended to enable citizens to protect themselves and their families in life-threatening situations.
While the Bakersfield Police Department also has the authority to issue concealed carry licenses, the Kern County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) is the main provider. Youngblood revealed that there was a surge in CCW requests in December as residents sought permits before the new law took effect on January 1.
When asked about the enforcement of the gun law, Youngblood compared a CCW violation to a traffic infraction, stating that his deputies would not be stationed at the entrances of churches to ensure CCW holders are unarmed.
The law faced legal challenges, with a federal court suspending an injunction that deemed it a repugnant violation of the Second Amendment. Proponents of the law argue that it aligns with the U.S. Supreme Court’s conservative majority decision in New York State Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen. They assert that the law adheres to the historical tradition of firearm regulation.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta supported the law, stating that it is part of the state’s data-driven strategy to combat gun violence. He cited a decline in firearm mortality rates since California tightened its gun laws.
Despite California having some of the strictest gun laws in the nation, the sheriff pointed out that Kern County has not experienced a homicide by a CCW holder. He challenged the governor to provide evidence of how many CCW-related homicides are occurring to support the law’s necessity.
The law’s enforcement remains a subject of debate among county sheriffs across California, with several indicating that they will not enforce it or will leave it to their deputies’ discretion.
As the legal fight continues, attorneys are expected to file their arguments to the appeals court by February. Youngblood predicted that the issue will eventually reach the U.S. Supreme Court. He expressed his commitment to join other Central Valley sheriffs in fighting against what they perceive as an infringement on citizens’ rights to self-defense.
Despite the ongoing controversy, the law’s proponents maintain that it is a critical step in addressing gun violence and promoting gun safety in California. They believe that concealed carry laws play a significant role in mitigating the risk of mass shootings and protecting public safety.
In light of the recent tragedies and the persistent threat of mass shootings, state lawmakers argue that California must take the lead in implementing gun safety measures. Senate Bill 2’s implementation represents a statewide standard designed to ensure responsible issuance of concealed carry permits.
The debate surrounding the enforcement of California’s new gun law highlights the complex and divisive nature of gun control in the United States. As the legal battle continues, the impact on gun owners, public safety, and the interpretation of the Second Amendment remains a subject of intense scrutiny and discussion.
Disclaimer: The above article is based on details provided by a reliable source. However, the accuracy and veracity of the information have not been independently verified.
