California is set to make waves in gun control legislation with a proposed bill that could drastically change the firearms landscape in the state. Assembly Bill 1127 aims to prohibit the sale of new Glock-brand handguns, targeting weapons that can be easily converted to fully automatic using illegal “Glock switches”.

The proposed legislation comes with significant implications for gun owners and manufacturers. While the bill wouldn’t affect existing Glock owners, it would prevent the sale of new Glock handguns in California. Supporters argue the measure is a crucial step in preventing gun violence, pointing to high-profile shootings like the 2022 Sacramento incident that left six people dead.

Interestingly, the bill creates a complex political moment for Governor Gavin Newsom, who recently received a Sig Sauer handgun as a gift from conservative podcaster Shawn Ryan. Newsom, known for his strong stance on gun control, finds himself in a nuanced position – supporting gun safety regulations while also being a new gun owner.

The legislation has broad Democratic support, with 12 co-authors backing the bill. It has already passed the Assembly, with only Republicans voting against it. If signed into law, California would become the first state to implement such a comprehensive ban on Glock sales.

Gun rights advocates argue that the bill could be a slippery slope, potentially opening the door to broader restrictions on semi-automatic handguns. They also note that only a tiny fraction of existing Glocks have been illegally modified.

Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, the bill’s lead author, maintains that the legislation is narrowly focused. He challenges gun manufacturers to redesign their weapons to make them less susceptible to illegal modifications. Meanwhile, Attorney General Rob Bonta supports the bill, arguing that California’s strict gun laws have contributed to lower firearms death rates.

As the bill moves closer to Newsom’s desk, the political and legal landscape of gun ownership in California hangs in the balance. The decision will likely spark intense debate about the balance between public safety and gun rights.