Tag: Proposition 63

  • Proposition 63 and FFLs

    Proposition 63 and FFLs

    We are a few months in to 2018, which, in California, means a few months in to the ammunition regulations found in Propositions 63. As of January 1, 2018, all ammunition sales must happen face-to-face with an FFL dealer or licensed ammunition vendor in the state of California. It is no longer legal to buy ammunition online or via catalogue, and have the items shipped unless it goes through an FFL or licensed ammunition vendor and picked up in person by the customer.

    Proposition 63 and FFLs

    Proposition 63 & FFLs

    Since the revealing of Proposition 63, California has seen a huge uptick in applications for licensed ammunition vendors. Unfortunately, it’s being reported that the state was not prepared to process and approve the influx of applications they have been receiving. Meaning, many folks sit in limbo waiting for their application to be approved before they can sell ammunition. Establishments that are California Licensed Firearms Dealers are automatically considered a licensed ammunition vendor without having to submit for addition licensing. This has made the transition into these new regulations much smoother at Lambert Pawn as we have been licensed by California for many years as a firearms dealer.

    What is an FFL?

    As gun owners and enthusiasts settle into the numerous new “rules” of Proposition 63, a lot of people are wondering, “What is an FFL and why are they now a part of my ammunition purchase?” In short, FFL stands for Federal Firearms License. Holding an FFL allows a person or organization to legally take part in the manufacturing, selling or importation of firearms and ammunition with application and approval from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The California state government doesn’t stop there as they require additional application measures and contingencies beyond what the federal government requires, including a yearly license renewal.

    Why are FFLs Required?

    Now that you have a short description of what it means to be “FFL”, we can move on to the second question on everyone’s mind. Why do FFLs have to be personally involved in my firearm transaction? The long and short of it is California is using these new requirements to keep a closer eye on who is buying ammunition. Now when purchases are made, a licensed firearms dealer will require the purchaser to show proof of residency and a gun safety certificate. The FFL is also required to demonstrate safe handling skills for the gear in question. FFLs are also mandated reporters of lost or stolen firearms. This means, fewer stolen guns being sold online or person to person (assuming the purchaser is law-abiding).

    No matter your take or opinion on the new laws and processes in place, they are in fact in place and unlawful to ignore.

    Have more questions on Proposition 63? We have answers for you in this blog post.

  • California Proposition 63 FAQs

    California Proposition 63 FAQs

    The start of 2018 isn’t just another year or another resolution to keep if you are a Californian. As of January 1, 2018, California’s Proposition 63 law has taken effect. As the bill is set to continue to roll-out over the next 18 months, many are questioning what exactly this new law means to them today. So, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 most frequently asked questions we’ve received here at Lambert Pawn.

    California Proposition 63 FAQs

    California Proposition 63 FAQs

    Question 1: Can I still own an assault rifle?

    Yes, you can still own an assault rifle. However, you can no longer buy one. The assault rifles you currently own must be registered with the state by June 30, 2018.

    Question 2: Can I buy ammunition online?

    Yes, but you cannot have the ammunition shipped to your home, or any other personal space. All ammunition purchased online or through a catalog must be shipped to a licensed dealer.

    Question 3: What is the limit on how much ammunition I can buy?

    There is no limit on the amount of ammo you can buy.

    Question 4: What do I do if I buy ammunition out of state?

    Don’t. As of January 1, 2018, you can no longer drive ammunition across state lines. Period.

    Question 5: Who can I loan my firearm to?

    Only immediate family.

    Question 6: If I want to sell or give away my own ammunition because I won’t use it, what do I do?

    You will need to locate a vendor licensed by the Department of Justice (like Lambert Pawn). The vendor must oversee and conduct the entire process of transferring the ownership of the ammunition.

    Question 7: Do I need to pass a background check to purchase ammunition?

    Yes. It has long been standard practice to pass a background check to buy a gun. However, as of July 1, 2019, firearm owners will need to pass a background check for every ammunition purchase they make.

    Question 8: What about reloading supplies?

    Reloading supplies such as bare bullets and empty cartridges do not need to be shipped to a licensed DOJ vendor if bought online. These purchases can still be shipped to personal addresses.

    Question 9: What do I do if my gun is lost or stolen?

    You must report any instances of lost or stolen firearms within 5 days of the incident. Failing to do so may result in fines of up to $1,000 per occurrence.

    Question 10: What is considered an assault weapon?

    Assault weapons are now defined in California as “semiautomatic centerfire rifle, or a semiautomatic pistol that does not have a fixed magazine but has any one of those specific attributes.”

    While this is our list of most frequently asked questions on Proposition 63, we understand that there are many more questions you may have. As a licensed DOJ vendor, we are happy to help answer those questions at any time. Also, it’s important to note that we are not attorneys and this does not constitute legal advice. We encourage you to always research the laws yourself or consult with a firearms attorney.

  • California Proposition 63

    California Proposition 63

    If you are a licensed gun owner in the state of California, you’ve likely heard of Proposition 63. Proposition 63 places stronger requirements on the purchase and possession of ammunition. While there is strong support for the new law, there is also a strong voice of opposition. Opponents to the law argue that the law violates the rights of the second amendment. Regardless, the law is still on track to take effect beginning January 1, 2018.

    California Proposition 63

    California Proposition 63

    In summary, Proposition 63 states that as of January 1, 2018, it will be illegal to purchase ammunition, reloading bullets and brass, magazines and speed loaders via the internet or mail orders without shipping to a licensed dealer. However, there is more to the law that will affect gun owners as well as ammunition dealers, like Lambert Pawn. Here is what you need to know about the law.

    • A background check will be required in order to purchase ammunition in California
    • Dealers must obtain a 1-year license from the Department of Justice (DOJ)
    • Purchasing ammunition out-of-state and returning with the purchased ammunition to California will risk a misdemeanor charge
    • In order to give or sell personal ammunition to another individual, owners will need to seek out a licensed dealer to act as a middle-man and essentially oversee the transfer.

    Essentially, the state of California is trying to ensure background checks are taking place and that the individuals verifying the checks are also verified (licensed) through the Department of Justice. The law was introduced and passed with the hope that it will keep guns and ammunition out of the wrong hands by closing loopholes in existing gun laws. Supporters of the law say that the law does in fact protect the rights of law-abiding citizens’ abilities to bear arms as allowed by the second amendment.

    Lambert Pawn is a proud dealer of guns and ammunition and is licensed by the Department of Justice. We look forward to partnering with you for all your ammunition needs and are happy to answer any questions regarding the new law and required background checks for the purchase of ammunition.