August 17, 1999 MOTION BY SUPERVISOR ZEV YAROSLAVSKY Gun violence, especially that perpetrated through the use of illegal automatic and semi-automatic weapons has torn at the heart and soul of our nation. Unfortunately, Los Angeles County has been hit harder than most communities by the epidemic of gun violence. The easy access to these guns of mass destruction has hit home in our County in recent years and recent days. In response to the many acts of gun violence in our County, the Board of Supervisors has enacted several laws regulating or prohibiting the sale of assault weapons and junk guns in the areas under its jurisdiction. However, the County still permits the sale of guns and ammunition on properties it owns, including the Los Angeles County Fairgrounds, now home to the nation’s largest gun show. During the past year, federal and state law enforcement officials have conducted undercover investigations which have resulted in the arrest of individuals who have been caught selling or arranging to sell illegal weapons. These activities are of such concern that the Sheriff of Los Angeles County and the Chief of Police of the City of Los Angeles have both called for an end to these kinds of exhibitions. Los Angeles County must ensure that its property and facilities are used to promote the public health, welfare and peace. Public facilities should be sanctuaries of safety, not arms bazaars for merchants of death. I, THEREFORE MOVE THAT County Counsel be directed to provide a full report to the Board of Supervisors at its August 24th meeting on legislative options available to it in addressing gun access at County facilities, including but not limited to an ordinance barring the sale and/or possession of firearms and ammunition on Los Angeles County property by any individuals, with the exception of law enforcement and similar officials.
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