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Bill

Bill

AB 879

Firearms: unsafe handguns.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Patterson

AB 879 establishes California standards regulating handgun safety features to restrict sales of firearms deemed unsafe, affecting manufacturers and consumer access.

In committee: Held under submission.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · AB 879

Legislative bill overview

AB 879 addresses the sale and regulation of unsafe handguns in California by establishing or modifying standards for firearm safety features. The bill has undergone committee amendments and is currently in the appropriations process, indicating ongoing refinement of its provisions related to handgun design and manufacturing requirements.

Why is this important

Handgun safety regulations affect both public health policy and the firearms industry operating in California. This bill could influence what types of firearms can be legally sold in the state, potentially impacting consumer access, manufacturer compliance costs, and litigation related to product liability.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and enforcement of "unsafe": Disagreement may exist over which specific safety features constitute adequate protection and who determines these standards
  • Manufacturing compliance costs: Firearms manufacturers may argue that expanded safety requirements increase production expenses and reduce product availability
  • Preemption concerns: Questions about whether state regulations conflict with federal firearms law or Second Amendment protections could generate legal challenges

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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