The Tucson City Council on Dec. 4 is expected to discuss a radical change to the city’s procurement process for the acquisition of firearms. If Ward 6 Councilman Steve Kozachik has his way, the city would be prohibited from doing business with any firearm retailer who sells “military-style” weapons to the public or isn’t deemed a “socially responsible dealer”. In his letter to Mayor Rothschild requesting discussion on the issue, Councilman Kozachik fails to define what constitutes a “military-style” weapon nor does explain what guns a “socially responsible gun dealer” would be permitted to sell.
Arizona law specifically prohibits local governments from enacting “any ordinance, rule or tax relating to the transportation, possession, carrying, sale, transfer, purchase, acquisition, gift, devise, storage, licensing, registration, discharge or use of firearms or ammunition.”
But Tucson has a long history of overreaching on firearm policy and violating state law. In 2017, the Arizona Supreme Court ruled against Tucson on a similar ordinance requiring law enforcement to destroy confiscated firearms. The court ultimately held that state law trumps local ordinances when it comes to firearms and would likely do so again if the discussion turns into action.
Tucson City Council Meeting Information
When: Monday, December 4th, 2018
Time: 5:30pm
Location: City Hall, 255 W Alameda, Tucson Arizona
