Oakland looks to toughen gun ownership rules

Oakland could become the first city in California to require residents to register guns with the city or meet strict new licensing rules, under legislation awaiting Gov. Jerry Brown's signature.

The bill, sponsored by Assemblyman Rob Bonta, D-Alameda, would exempt Oakland from a state law that prohibits cities from requiring gun owners to register their weapons with city registries. It would give the City Council the power to enact gun laws that are more restrictive than the state's laws. The city could even charge gun ownership fees.

The legislation, approved by both the Assembly and Senate, comes at a time when Oakland is reeling from gun violence. The governor has not said whether he will sign it.

"There is no true state gun registration law," Bonta said. "Oakland could enact its own, so that Oakland residents would register their guns potentially annually, potentially with a background check."

Read More: http://www.sfgate.com/crime/article/Oakland-looks-to-toughen-gun-ownership-rules-4803446.php