Tulare Times

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 1982, introduced by Assemblyman Devon Mathis. The new law permits veterans to use a Veteran Health Identification Card from the Department of Veterans Affairs as proof of veteran status to be exempt from the requirement of possessing a Firearm Safety Certificate when purchasing firearms.

Assemblyman Mathis expressed his views following the bill's signing: “This week, the Governor signed my bill that will simplify the process for Veterans to exercise their 2nd Amendment Rights. Our Veterans put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms yet unfortunately, there are still unnecessary barriers when our Veterans try to exercise those very same freedoms."

Mathis emphasized the importance of addressing veterans' issues and rights. "As a Veteran myself, I take Veterans’ issues, especially their rights, very seriously. AB 1982 will allow Veterans to use their Veteran Health Identification Card as a legal document to qualify for an exemption from the Firearm Safety Certificate requirement when purchasing a firearm."

He further stated, "These heroes have risked their lives in defense of our country and deserve to be able to exercise the rights & privileges that are afforded to them. I’m proud to see this common-sense legislation signed into law and as I finish up my final year in the Legislature, I will continue to be a strong advocate for our Veterans, both in the Assembly and beyond.”