California bill AB1471, which requires that all new models of semiautomatic handguns are microstamped with their make, model, and serial number, was signed into law today by Gov. Schwarzenegger.
As reported in the October issue of Industrial Laser Solutions (see Fighting crime with laser engraving), on September 10 the California Assembly passed the Crime Gun Identification Act of 2007 (AB 1471). Microstamping uses UV lasers to engrave microscopic characters onto a gun's firing pin and other internal surfaces.
Gov. Schwarzenegger's signing statement reads:
"To the Members of the California State Assembly:
I am signing Assembly Bill 1471.
While I appreciate and understand that this technology is not without limitations, I am signing this bill to provide law enforcement with an additional tool for solving crimes committed with semi-automatic handguns in California.
Public safety is one of the most important roles of government and I encourage all stakeholders to work on improving this technology so that it may become an even more effective crime fighting tool.
Sincerely,
Arnold Schwarzenegger"
