CA AB1869

Amends Proposition 47 to make theft of any firearm grand theft in all cases, punishable by state prison imprisonment of 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years, regardless of the firearm's value.

Makes buying, receiving, or concealing a stolen firearm a misdemeanor or felony, exempting firearms from Proposition 47's $950 threshold that reduced most theft charges to misdemeanors.

Calls a special election to be consolidated with the November 8, 2016 statewide general election for voters to approve the firearm theft amendments to Proposition 47.

Declares that firearm theft and receipt of stolen firearms pose distinct public safety dangers that justify restoring pre-Proposition 47 penalties for these specific offenses.

Takes effect immediately as an act calling an election, with the substantive amendments to Penal Code sections 490.2 and 496 becoming effective only upon voter approval.