Strict new law in San Francisco aimed at city's only gun shop
SAN FRANCISCO (KTVU) -- Supervisor Mark Farrell introduced legislation to his fellow members of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors Tuesday aimed at toughening the city's gun control laws.
But the proposed law would currently affect just one business, High Bridge Arms, the only gun store in San Francisco.
Under a proposal by Farrell, High Bridge and any other gun store that comes into town would have to videotape all gun and ammunition sales.
In addition, all ammunition sales records would have to be sent electronically to the San Francisco police department
"We want to make sure the city has the best laws in place for gun control," said Farrell.
KTVU asked Farrell if the proposed law was necessary given there it would currently affect just the one business.
"It certainly applies to the gun store that exists today. But we have heard of additional stores over time trying to come into the city," Farrell said.
Police Chief Greg Suhr told KTVU by text that he supports the idea because it would make guns and ammunition easier to trace.
But Steven Alcairo, the general manager at High Bridge Arms. opposes the idea.
"It's a very intrusive law that will accomplish absolutely nothing," said Alcairo. "As of right now I would refuse that, unless they brought a subpoena."
Alcairo says the gun store already has high-quality video cameras.
"I'm behind what works. I don't think that will work," he said.
The National Rifle Association issued a statement late Tuesday saying the proposal "...will only serve to harass and deter law-abiding citizens from exercising their constitutional right to self-protection."
"To me, this is no-brainer legislation," said Farrell.
The proposal is expected to go the full Board of Supervisors in San Francisco for a vote by the fall. If it passes, it would go into effect by the end of the year.