Liberals’ bill would tighten controls on sale, licensing of firearms

OTTAWA (NEWS 1130) – The federal government has tabled new gun control legislation.

The legislation tabled in the House would introduce more rigorous background checks for gun sales and require buyers to show a licence whenever a non-restricted firearm is transferred — and the seller would have to verify that it is valid.

The bill also tightens rules around travelling with handgun and requires gun sellers to keep records of firearms inventory and sales for at least 20 years.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke about the proposed legislation on his way into caucus this morning. “[We want] common sense gun laws that do a better job of background checks to keep people safe.”

There have been fears that possible requirements for vendors to keep better records of gun sales is really just another gun registry. But Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale says that is false, saying the long gun registry is not returning.

Trudeau echoed that on Twitter this morning, saying “make no mistake: There will not be another long-gun registry, not now or ever, under this government.”

The changes will fulfill an election promise from the Liberals and comes at a time when cities have seen a spike in gun and gang violence. On Twitter today, Trudeau says a rise in gun violence is a “clear threat to public safety.”

The Liberals expect political pushback from the Conservatives, as the bill would repeal measures passed by the previous government. For instance, it would roll back some automatic authorizations to transport restricted firearms.

Conservative MP Marilyn Gladu is not happy, saying these changes will only hurt law-abiding gun owners. “The problem is the criminals are not following the gun rules. So, it becomes more bureaucracy for gun owners and doesn’t address the problem with the gangs.”

Goodale has already earmarked more than $327 million over five years and $100 million a year thereafter, to address criminal gun and gang activities.