Tina Kotek on Gun Control

Signed law banning undetectable "ghost guns"

Oregon Capital Chronicle summary May 2, 2023: The state House passed a firearms bill that would ban untraceable guns, raise the minimum age from 18 to 21 to purchase powerful firearms like semiautomatic weapons and allow local agencies to ban firearms on government property. Democratic lawmakers and supporters of House Bill 2005 said the measure would help law enforcement and keep communities safe while respecting the rights of firearm owners.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 17-3-10 on Jun/15/23; passed House 34-14-12 on Jun/21/23; Signed by Governor Tina Kotek on Jul/13/23.

Endorses Measure 114: mandate permitting & safety training

The other candidates were opposed. Drazan said that Oregon has enough gun legislation at present, and Johnson argued about release of some violent prison inmates, but appeared to oppose further gun restrictions.

Require criminal background checks for gun purchases

The Oregonian analysis:SB 941 requires background checks for most gun transactions involving private parties to prevent sales to people legally prohibited from owning firearms, including felons and those committed for mental health treatment. The measure includes several exemptions, including for transfers among family members and for people who lend guns for hunting and for use at firing ranges.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 17-13-0 on Apr/14/15; Passed House 32-28-0 on May/4//15; House Speaker Tina Kotek voted YES; Signed by Governor Kate Brown on May/11/15