California’s Democratic lawmakers are supporting Governor Gavin Newsom’s pursuit of a constitutional amendment for gun control. The amendment, proposed by Newsom’s Campaign for Democracy PAC, was introduced in a joint resolution on Monday. Assemblyman Reggie Jones-Sawyer and Sen. Aisha Wahab are the authors of the legislation, which advocates for a constitutional convention that would enable states and local governments to restrict firearm ownership.

The ‘Right to Safety Amendment’: Key Provisions

The proposed amendment, now dubbed the “Right to Safety Amendment,” would increase the legal age for gun ownership to 21, mandate universal background checks, enforce a minimum waiting period, and ban assault weapons. Despite the unlikelihood of its success, as noted by constitutional scholars, Newsom remains optimistic about gaining support from enough states.

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In addition to this constitutional amendment, California’s lawmakers are considering several state gun control bills. Newsom’s broader ambition is to inspire national reform. President Biden has been advocating for a renewed national ban on assault weapons, but Newsom has expressed concerns about its constitutionality given the Supreme Court’s recent rulings.

Read more at The Sacramento Bee