Some California lawmakers want easier access to carry concealed gunsThey say their job has become dangerous, citing the shooting of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords in Tucson and threats from constituents. Baca objects to singling out elected officials.
By Patrick McGreevy, Los Angeles Times
March 14, 2011
The right to carry a concealed weapon in California is mostly reserved for those at risk of violence — jewelers, bail bondsmen and criminal prosecutors among them.
But some legislators say their job has become dangerous too. Despite objections from some law enforcement officials and even gun rights advocates, they want a law that would make it easier for them to tote firearms for protection.
The lawmakers cite the shooting of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.) in Tucson and threats from constituents in California as cause for permits to carry weapons.
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Under the new bill, being an elected state official or a member of Congress would constitute good cause. The officials would, like others, be subject to a background check, and a sheriff or police chief could still turn down the application, Wright noted.
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