Dems introduce new
federal ‘assault weapon’ ban that includes pistol braces
Besides 205 models of firearms listed by name, the ban
would include “featureless stocks” and pistols with stabilizing braces. (Photo:
Chris Eger/Guns.com)
NRA-ILA
01/10/19 8:30 AM | by Chris Eger
Democrats lead by U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein on Wednesday
rolled out their most sweeping assault weapons ban proposal since 1994.
The planned Assault Weapon Ban of 2019 targets the sale,
transfer, manufacture, and importation of “military-style assault weapons and
high-capacity ammunition magazines,” as defined by the California Democrat and
her co-sponsors, Senators Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut.
“This past year, we’ve seen Americans rise up and demand
Congress change our gun laws. Banning assault weapons would save lives,” said
Murphy, who in the past has spoken out against what he termed “the imaginary
2nd Amendment.”
Besides outlawing 205 gun models by name — Feinstein’s
original 1994 ban only listed around 20 specific models — the proposal would also define an
“assault weapon” as a semi-automatic with a detachable magazine that included
one of a list of cosmetic features that are deemed “military characteristics”
such as a threaded barrel, pistol grip or folding stock. This is less lenient
than the previous ban which allowed a “features test” that included two such
characteristics.
In addition, the measure would expand federal law to ban
adjustable stocks, Thordsen-style stocks such as used in “featureless
rifles” marketed in states like California, “assault pistols” that weight
more than 50-ounces when unloaded, and popular
pistol stabilizing braces that have become widespread in recent
years. Detachable magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds would
be prohibited from transfer and guns grandfathered when the ban takes effect
would be required to be locked up when not in use. A background check would be
mandatory for future sale or gifting of grandfathered guns, even between two
private parties.
Joining Feinstein in her effort to “get these
weapons of war off our streets,” are at least 25 other Dems in the Senate
who have promised to sign on to the legislation. However, with Republicans in
charge of the chamber, it is unlikely the measure will make it out of committee
without bipartisan support.
Meanwhile, in the now-Democrat controlled House, Rhode
Island U.S. Rep. David Cicilline has been elevated to a leadership
position in that body and has since 2011 backed a series
of bans on semi-automatics similar to Feinstein’s latest attempt.
Honored to have the support of @Everytown who are leading
the charge for sensible gun laws in our country. I'll never stop fighting to
keep dangerous weapons of war off our streets.
251 4:37 PM - Oct
24, 2018
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