Governor Takes Action on Key Hunting Related Bills

Governor Vetoes COHA-Sponsored SB 752

Noting that he liked the concept, but wanted to wait until the new Automated License Data System (ALDS) was more fully developed, Governor Brown vetoed California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA)-Sponsored SB 752 on Saturday. The legislation, which was authored by Senator Tom Berryhill and co-sponsored by California Waterfowl, would have allowed individuals to authorize the Department of Fish and Game (DFG) to release their contact information to the non-profit hunting or fishing organizations of their choosing when purchasing a hunting or fishing license via the new ALDS. COHA and California Waterfowl sponsored the bill in an effort to strengthen the membership of these organizations and their ability to partner on critically needed game and sport fish related conservation efforts. The Governor has instructed DFG to work with Senator Berryhill and COHA over the winter so that a new bill can be introduced in the next legislative session.  

Signs Long Gun Registration Bill 

Governor Brown has signed AB 809, legislation which expands the current handgun registration law to require a permanent registry of all firearms purchasers - including shotguns and rifles.The bill also requires those who purchase, or even transfer a shotgun or rifle to family members, to register that firearm by submitting their name, address, place of birth, phone number and occupation to the California Department of Justice. Recognizing the serious invasion of privacy, the possible long-term effects of the registry, and the minor impact of long gun registration would have on crime, COHA fought hard to kill this proposal.  

Vetoes Ammunition Bill  

In some positive news, the Governor vetoed SB 427, legislation which would have redefined "handgun ammunition" to include many commonly used rifle rounds, and allowed for full implementation of AB 962 - the ammunition registration law passed in 2009 which was subsequently ruled unconstitutional by the courts.  In effect, approval of SB 427 would have essentially banned mail order and internet sales of all handgun and some rifle munitions by requiring that all transactions be completed "face-to-face".  Additionally, the measure would have forced buyers to submit detailed personal information when purchasing commonly-used hunting and shooting munitions.    

CDA Junior Deer Hunt Deadline Nears

Friday, October 14^th, is the deadline to enter California Deer Association's 8th Annual "Sharing the Tradition" junior deer hunt drawing.  Twenty-five lucky junior hunters will be selected for a free guided anterless deer hunt at the famous Tejon Ranch in late December 2011.  For all drawing details and entry forms, visit CDA's website.