Election 2016: Prop 63
Here's what you need to know to decide how to vote on California's Proposition 63.
ICYMI: the 2016 election will be held on Tuesday, November 8, with early voting kicking off at San Francisco’s City Hall on Tuesday, October 11.
In addition to voting for officials at the local, state, and national level, San Franciscans will face a decision on 17 state ballot initiatives and 25 local propositions.
Not sure how to vote on Proposition 63? We hope the brief voter guide below will help you decide!
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What Is Prop 63?
Prop 63 would impose background checks and require authorization from the Department of Justice in order to purchase ammunition.
The proposition would also prohibit the possession of large-capacity ammunition magazines and create a procedure for enforcing existing laws that prohibit gun possession by certain individuals.
Additionally, Prop 53 would mandate that the DOJ participate in the federal National Instant Criminal Background Check System.
Who Supports Prop 63?
Key supporters of Prop 63 include: the California Democratic Party, and a long list of elected officials (including former president Jimmy Carter, Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom, U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) and U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA)), law enforcement officials, and a variety of organizations.
Supporters argue that the proposition would help protect the safety of Californians by keeping firearms and ammunition from falling into the wrong hands.
Proponents also contend that Prop 63 would close dangerous loopholes in current gun laws, while also protecting the rights of law-abiding citizens to own guns for hunting, recreation, and self-defense.
Who Opposes Prop 63?
Key opponents of Prop 63 include: the National Rifle Association (NRA) and California Rifle & Pistol Association.
Opponents argue that the proposition would create a burden on law-abiding citizens who own guns, without preventing terrorists and violent criminals from obtaining firearms and ammunition.
Opponents also contend that Prop 63 would take resources away from local law enforcement agencies and place additional burdens on an already-taxed court system.
Learn More about Prop 63
To learn more, read the full text of Proposition 63.
