Watch CBS News

Cities Call On Sunnyvale For Advice On Local Gun-Control Measures

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) -- Sunnyvale has been getting calls from cities around the country over its successful passage of a gun-control ordinance last November.

The new law bans magazine clips that hold more than ten rounds of ammunition, but the city's Mayor Tony Splitaleri said because of inaction on the federal level, cities like Mountain View are interested in passing similar gun-control measures.

"People from Cupertino, Campbell and as far away as San Rafael; everyone wants to do something. The NRA's [National Rifle Association] only weapon against any of these sensible gun measures is to threaten you with lawsuits. That's the first words out of their mouths," Splitaleri said.

Cities Call On Sunnyvale For Advice On Local Gun-Control Measures

The NRA in fact has already filed a lawsuit. Their attorney, Chuck Michel, claimed the ordinance is illegal because it's preempted by state law.

"The NRA has made a promise to its members and the gun owners in Sunnyvale that it will fight to maintain their rights, to defend their rights and Measure C infringes on their right to choose to own a gun to defend themselves and their families in multiple respects," he said.

He's also challenging the requirement that the guns have to be locked.

City leaders in Sunnyvale said they're confident that the ordinance will withstand the legal challenge.

Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.