St. Paul Proposes Gun Violence Prevention Ordinance Amid Legislative Stalemate

St. Paul has unveiled language for a proposed ordinance aimed at addressing gun safety issues, two days after a coalition of city leaders urged action on gun violence prevention at the Minnesota State Capitol. The ordinance outlines five key provisions intended to enhance public safety, including a ban on the possession of assault weapons and large-capacity magazines, as well as prohibiting “ghost guns” while mandating that all firearms possess serial numbers.

The proposed legislation also seeks to limit the presence of firearms in certain public venues, such as parks and libraries. Furthermore, public facilities would be required to inform residents about the new restrictions, and the ordinance would define enforcement mechanisms and penalties. Specific exemptions would apply for active-duty law enforcement, military personnel, licensed federal firearms curators, and individuals transporting firearms through the city.

Despite these measures, the ordinance faces a significant challenge due to Minnesota’s preemption law, which currently prevents cities from enacting their own gun regulations. Consequently, if the ordinance is approved, it would not take effect unless the preemption law is repealed.

City Leaders Demand Legislative Change

In a show of solidarity, mayors and city council members from various Minnesota municipalities, including Minneapolis, Bloomington, Rochester, and St. Louis Park, gathered at the Minnesota State Capitol on March 12, 2024, to press state lawmakers for the repeal of the preemption law. They emphasized the necessity for local governments to have the authority to establish their own gun legislation, particularly if state and federal leaders fail to address the pressing issue of gun violence.

“Our children, our families, and our Governor are calling Minnesota to action on assault weapons,” stated St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter. “If the legislature is unable to do something different, local leaders will.”

This push for legislative change comes in the aftermath of a tragic shooting incident in August 2023, where two children were killed at the Annunciation Catholic Church. Following this event, Governor Tim Walz proposed a special legislative session to address gun violence, but discussions between the DFL and GOP leaders have not yielded any agreement.

Next Steps for St. Paul’s Ordinance

The ordinance language is set to be introduced at the St. Paul city council meeting on March 13, 2024. Should the city council approve the proposal, it will signify a determined local effort to combat gun violence, reflecting a growing sentiment among city leaders that immediate action is required in the absence of state-level solutions.

As the situation develops, the focus remains on the potential lifting of the preemption law. The outcome of these discussions will significantly influence the future of gun safety legislation in St. Paul and potentially across Minnesota.