LA Just Banned Large-Capacity Gun Magazines

The Los Angeles City Council voted today to ban firearm magazines that hold more than ten rounds of ammunition, which have been called "the common thread "in nearly all mass-shooting tragedies in the United States.

It's already illegal in California to manufacture, sell, or import large-capacity gun magazines—but it's not illegal to possess them. Lawmakers in LA have been trying to close that loophole for close to two years, culminating in today's vote. Los Angeles residents will have 60 days after the ordinance goes into effect to remove, surrender, or legally sell their large-capacity magazines, or face misdemeanor charges.

The ordinance exempts on-duty police officers, military gun owners, licensed firearm dealers, and those who legally obtained firearms over 15 years ago that can only be used with such magazines. The union that represents the LAPD is also hoping to get an exemption for retired police officers who have concealed carry permits.

"People who want to defend their families don't need a 100-round drum magazine and an automatic weapon to do it," said Councilman Paul Krekorian, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Gun rights groups, unsurprisingly, disagree, arguing that magazines with more than ten rounds are considered standard for self-defense. The National Rifle Association and the California Rifle & Pistol Association, among others, are expected to sue LA over the new rules. Other groups, like CalGuns Shooting Sports Association, have pointed out that because Los Angeles is flanked by other cities where similar bans have not been passed, the effect on gun violence will likely be negligible.

Los Angeles city officials don't see it this way: All 12 members of the City Council voted in favor of the ordinance. Their decision was backed by groups like the Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence and Women Against Gun Violence, as well as by Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti.

After their vote, Krekorian spoke to a cheering crowd that had gathered outside City Hall: "If the NRA wants to sue us over this, bring it on."

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