AB 1934 Summary

• Removes the exception allowing open carry of firearms in belt holsters, making it illegal to openly carry a loaded firearm in public areas without a permit.

• Creates a new misdemeanor offense for openly carrying an unloaded handgun on one's person in public places or public streets in incorporated cities, punishable by up to six months in county jail and/or a $1,000 fine.

• Establishes exemptions to the new offense for peace officers, hunters, military organizations, firearms dealers and manufacturers, target range users, and members of Congress-chartered organizations during official parade or ceremonial duties.

• Adds Section 12037 to the Penal Code to define and regulate the open carry of unloaded handguns with specified exceptions for lawful activities like hunting, target shooting, and law enforcement.

• Modifies Sections 626.9, 12001, 12025, 12026, and 12026.2 to conform terminology and create consistency with the new open carry restrictions and exemptions.