The Sutter County Sheriff's Office in California has declared its intention not to enforce the state's new gun law, which was endorsed by Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom.
The law, which came into effect on Monday, restricts the carrying of firearms in designated "sensitive" public areas. These include parks, stadiums, government buildings, medical facilities, churches, public transit, numerous parking zones, and any location where alcohol is sold and consumed, among others.
The Los Angeles Times noted that the law not only affects concealed-carry permit holders but also open-carry permit holders in the state's more rural regions.
Supporters of the legislation, primarily Democrats, argue that these restrictions are sensible precautions that will help reduce gun violence. However, critics argue that the extensive list of "sensitive places" effectively prohibits permit holders from legally carrying a firearm outside their homes. The bill, penned by Democratic Senator Anthony Portantino, was signed into law by Newsom last year.
Portantino expressed his belief in the law's potential to enhance public safety and save lives, stating, "When SB 2 is implemented, it will certainly increase public safety and, I believe, save lives."
In contrast, U.S. District Judge Cormac J. Carney blocked the gun law from taking effect on January 1, labeling parts of the bill as unconstitutional. In his decision, Carney described the law's "coverage as sweeping, repugnant to the Second Amendment, and openly defiant of the Supreme Court."
However, a federal appeals court temporarily halted Carney's ruling a few days later, allowing the restrictions to come into effect at the beginning of the year. Newsom labeled Carney's ruling as "dangerous" and praised the appeals court's temporary order. "Californians overwhelmingly support efforts to ensure that places like hospitals, libraries and children's playgrounds remain safe and free from guns," Newsom stated.
On Wednesday, Sutter County Sheriff Brandon Barnes and Sutter County District Attorney Jennifer Dupr issued a joint statement announcing their decision not to enforce the new gun law. The statement read, "We certainly encourage all citizens to obey the law," but added that they would evaluate situations on a case-by-case basis.
The statement further noted, "We have no interest in criminalizing constitutionally protected behavior. We took an oath to uphold our Constitution and will work to protect the rights of our citizens." The statement concluded with the assertion that the issue is far from resolved and expressed hope that the courts would rule in favor of the constitution.
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