The new year is set to bring new gun laws to California. A look at what’s changing for gun owners
Gavin Nguyen
COACHELLA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) – A new law aimed at improving safety within the homes of gun owners in California is set to go into effect with the turn of the new year.
Senate Bill 53, passed in 2024, mandates secure firearms storage in the state.
The bill’s text reads:
“This bill would, beginning on January 1, 2026, require a person who possesses a firearm in a residence to keep the firearm securely stored when the firearm is not being carried or readily controlled by the person or another lawful authorized user. For purposes of these provisions, a firearm is securely stored if the firearm is maintained within, locked by, or disabled using a certified firearm safety device or secure gun safe that meets specified standards.”
The California Department of Justice provides a webpage where gun owners can search for approved safety devices compatible with their firearm.
News Channel 3 previously reported on a looming ban on Glock handguns, as well. That ban stops consumers from purchasing new models on July 1st, 2026, but starting January 1st, gun dealers will no longer be able to import them for sale to civilians.
The owner of Golden State Armory, a local gun store in Thousand Palms, Kent Miller, said he experienced a rush of customers looking to purchase that brand in the months leading up to the ban, as he previously predicted.
Also coming down the pipe: California Assembly Bill 1263. That assembly bill imposes stricter rules for gun owners looking to purchase firearms parts and accessories.
“The red tape system been placed on buying accessories has caused the majority of people who sell online or ship firearm parts of components to just say they’re not going to ship or sell to California any longer,” Miller explained.
News Channel 3 is speaking with gun stores and gun owners in the Coachella Valley about what they think this new law will do for safety. Stay with us for more.