While CWA worked years ago to create an exemption from the existing FSC requirement for licensed hunters, the exemption only applies to long guns.  Thus, California hunters purchasing handguns for wild pig or bear hunting, for example, would still be required to take the additional training course (which would need to be taken in person at a gun range) under SB 948—even though they had already completed the longstanding 10-hour hunter safety course.     

Because the bill’s mandates would also apply to hunters and other gun owners moving into the state, it would create a further disincentive for sportsmen from other states to travel here.  And, some of those bringing firearms into California would likely not even be aware of the 8-hour training course and FSC 60-day requirement, which would subject them to a misdemeanor violation. 

SB 948 is nothing more than harassment by making it even more difficult than it already is to acquire or possess a firearm in California.  The bill is overkill and has little or nothing to do with legitimate public safety issues.  

Thanks to your help, we killed a highly similar bill (AB 1187 (Rodriguez)) last year, so your assistance against these types of extreme gun control bills can make a difference.  Please contact your State Senator now and urge him or her to oppose this unnecessary bill, which will be considered by the Senate Appropriations Committee soon.