California legislators have approved a costly firearm and ammunition tax, which would make it much more expensive for citizens to arm themselves in the state.
The new legislation passed in the California Senate on Thursday would add an 11-percent tax on all firearm and ammo transactions.
The new tax would create a California state tax equivalent to the highest existing federal tax on firearms.
The proceeds of the gun tax would reportedly go to California’s gun violence prevention programs and school safety programs.
“Don’t let politics stand in the way of saving the lives of our children and providing mental health care in our school districts,” Democrat state Sen. Anthony Portantino said.
“Fear should not be on the brow of a parent when they send their kids to school.”
The legislation criticizes the increasing revenue that trade in firearms created for dealers after the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The firearm industry has also enjoyed record growth and profits for years,” the law reads.
However, it’s not definite that the legislation would be signed into law by progressive Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Newsom has proposed creating a 28th Amendment to the Constitution, banning so-called assault weapons and mandatory waiting period for gun purchases.
Newsom’s spokesperson said he would “evaluate the bill on its merits,” according to Fox.
The California Governor has until Oct. 14 to veto or sign the legislation.
However, critics of the legislation predicted it would face rigorous legal challenges if signed into law.
President of the California Rifle and Pistol Association, Chuck Michel, said he intends to challenge the policy in the courts.
“It’s a poll tax. It’s a tax on exercising a constitutional right.”
“We’re going to have to file a lawsuit to challenge it.”
California has some of the most restrictive gun laws in the Union.
The new tax would make the “progressive” state unique even among its peers with restrictive gun laws.
READ: New Mexico Governor Issues BAN on Guns to Protect ‘Public Health’
