State bill would make open carry of handguns a misdemeanor

A bill to prohibit people from openly carrying unloaded handguns in California... would make it a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and a steep fine, to openly carry an unloaded handgun "on one's person or in a vehicle." ... "Existing law prohibits carrying a concealed weapon, loaded or unloaded, unless granted a permit to do so," according to the California Police Chiefs Association. But existing law doesn't prohibit carrying an unconcealed weapon — the source of the conflict. ... Portantino said police regularly receive calls from alarmed residents who see guns carried in plain sight in public venues. Responding to these complaints slows down reaction to other calls or threats. [UNCLEEEAR on the CONCEPT!!!]