Sen. Blakespear Condemns Court Ruling Allowing Open Carry of Firearms in California
SACRAMENTO – Sen. Catherine S. Blakespear, D-Encinitas, issued the following statement, following Friday’s ruling by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on California’s law banning open carry of firearms in counties with more than 200,000 residents:
“I strongly condemn the Ninth Circuit’s decision to strike down California’s ban on openly carrying firearms. This ruling is reckless, ignores overwhelming empirical evidence, and will make our communities less safe.
Data shows that expanding open carry permits increases the risk of gun violence in public places. Studies of states that weakened public carry laws show higher rates of violent crime and aggravated assault, not deterrence.
This decision undermines California’s values. Californians deserve laws grounded in evidence and science, not rulings that idolize the Wild West.”
Blakespear represents Senate District 38, which covers northern San Diego County and southern Orange County. To learn more about the district and Sen. Blakespear, visit her Senate website.