On Wednesday, the Pittsburgh City Council gave initial approval to gun-control legislation introduced in the wake of 2018’s synagogue massacre. It is expected to be challenged in court by Second Amendment advocates who point out that state law doesn’t allow municipalities to regulate firearms.
The legislation would place restrictions on military-style assault weapons like the AR-15 rifle that authorities say was used in the October 27 rampage at Tree of Life Synagogue that killed 11 and wounded seven. It would also ban most uses of armor-piercing ammunition and high-capacity magazines, and would allow the temporary seizure of guns from people who are determined to be a danger to themselves or others.
The council voted 6-3 to approve the bills, with a final vote scheduled for April 2. State law has long prohibited municipalities from regulating the ownership or possession of guns or ammunition. Democratic Councilman Corey O’Connor, a co-sponsor, said in an interview ahead of the vote: “It’s an uphill battle, but we’re trying to look at every angle to get a win. It’s time to fight back against this senseless violence.”
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