I am writing to express my opposition to AB 1263 (Gipson) which changes definitions and creates certain restrictions on firearm accessories to include anything that could increase a firearm’s rate of fire or reloading speed. This bill shows a strong misunderstandings of suitable firearm use and is an unnecessary legislative overreach. My primary concern with AB 1263 is that there is an unfortunate assumption that making a firearm more efficient will only benefit those who may misuse it. Would it not be reasonable to consider the benefit to how it would serve responsible, lawful gunowners? Plus, AB 1263 makes the dissemination of digital instructions and computer code regarding the manufacturing of firearms and accessories illegal even though the banning of digital code has been deemed by federal courts to be a First Amendment violation. Additionally, the bill also requires that anyone who sells a firearm barrel, a firearm accessory and a CNC machine to inform prospective purchasers that it could be a crime to misuse these particular product. Since when did it become the responsibility of a seller to inform any purchaser that what they may do in the future any product may be illegal? CNC milling machines and 3-D printers are popular and valued tools used by individuals and industry so putting limits on their use is unfair and will do nothing but chill innovation. For these reasons, I stand with Gun Owners of California and oppose AB 1263.

I’m writing in strong opposition to AB 1263 (Gipson), which seeks to redefine and restrict a wide range of firearm accessories—essentially anything that could increase a gun’s rate of fire or speed up reloading. This kind of broad language reflects a deep misunderstanding of how firearms are used responsibly and represents yet another example of legislative overreach. What concerns me most is the assumption that improving a firearm’s efficiency only serves those with bad intentions. Shouldn’t lawmakers also consider how these tools support safe, lawful gun ownership? Moreover, the bill criminalizes the sharing of digital files and code related to firearm components—despite clear federal rulings that such restrictions violate the First Amendment. On top of that, AB 1263 requires sellers of barrels, accessories, or CNC machines to warn buyers that misusing these items could be illegal. That’s an unreasonable burden to place on lawful sellers and manufacturers. CNC machines and 3D printers are legitimate tools used in countless industries, and regulating them this way will only stifle innovation and punish law-abiding citizens. That’s why I stand with Gun Owners of California and urge you to reject AB 1263.