Gov. Signs Gun Control Legislation

Continuing New Jersey’s pioneering gun control efforts, Governor James E. McGreevey this week signed legislation to further protect the state’s citizens from gun violence.

“Common sense dictates that we keep guns out of the hands of those who simply shouldn’t have them,” said Governor McGreevey. “Today, we are broadening the scope of previous legislation to do just that.”

Governor McGreevey was joined by members of The Million Mom March united with the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence and CeasefireNJ.

“This is about the safety of our communities and our responsibility to our children,” said Governor McGreevey. “We must put an end to gun violence and take back our streets from those who would use guns to commit criminal acts. And, we must ensure that no more families are torn apart by senseless gun violence.”

Currently, a person is disqualified from buying a handgun if - as a juvenile – he or she used a firearm while committing an offense. This bill expands disqualification to include those offenses involving the unlawful use or possession of a weapon, explosive or destructive device. The bill also expands the disqualifying offenses to include serious violent crimes such as robbery, carjacking, aggravated assault and kidnapping.

“This administration will fight to keep guns out of the wrong hands,” said Governor McGreevey. “We will continue to lead the nation, as we work to decrease the number of people who die each year as a result of firearms. This legislation is another step in the right direction.”

“We are ensuring the public's safety by keeping guns out of the hands of people who have committed violent crimes in the past," said Assembly Assistant Majority Leader Linda Greenstein (D-Middlesex). "Aberrant behavior as a juvenile signals they may pose a threat as adults."

"In New Jersey, we take weapons offenses seriously - by both adults and children," said Assemblyman Gary Guear Sr (D-Middlesex). "Young people need to know they must face the consequences if they participate in that type of behavior."

"Once again, the State of New Jersey takes the lead in securing a safer tomorrow for our children and families by implementing the 'Juvenile Brady' law,” said Christine O'Brien of The Million Mom March united with the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence. “Governor McGreevey recognizes that senseless tragedies resulting from gun violence cripple our communities. This law will help with deterring future firearm calamities. As we approach the third anniversary of the Million Mom March, I can not think of a better Mother’s Day gift.”

“CeasefireNJ and the citizens of the state are thrilled that Governor McGreevey is once again taking the lead in moving our state to a safer place,” said Bryan Miller, Executive Director of CeasefireNJ. “His concern for the safety of New Jersey’s homes, schools and communities from gun violence is unprecedented and we are grateful”

New Jersey has a long history of implementing common-sense gun legislation. Since 1966, the state has had the strongest gun licensing and registration system in the entire nation. While in the State Assembly, McGreevey was a staunch supporter of the landmark Assault Weapons Ban that was passed in 1990. New Jersey was the first state to pass the ban and the rest of the nation soon followed suit.

The McGreevey administration remains steadfast in its commitment to tough, sensible gun control legislation. Last month, Governor McGreevey ordered all state law enforcement agencies to destroy their outdated guns, so they don’t turn up back on the street.

Last December, Governor McGreevey signed legislation requiring new handguns to be equipped with smart gun technology. This revolutionary technology will allow only the gun’s recognized user to fire the weapon.

Last October - following the indictment and arrest of 41 alleged members of the dangerous Latin Kings street gang - Acting Attorney General Peter Harvey established the Gangs, Guns and Drugs initiative. This will help in the investigation and prosecution of gang-related drug and gun crimes in targeted cities across New Jersey.

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Author: Press Release-Micah Rasmussen