Firearms.

Existing law, subject to exceptions, makes it an offense to carry a concealed handgun on the person or in a vehicle, as specified. Existing law provides that firearms carried openly in belt holsters are not concealed within the meaning of those provisions. This bill would delete the exception pertaining to firearms carried openly in belt holsters. The bill would also establish an exemption to the offense for transportation of a firearm by members of specified organizations going directly to or from official parade duty or ceremonial occasions, as specified. The bill would provide other exemptions. By expanding the scope of an existing offense, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. Existing law, subject to exceptions, makes it an offense to carry a loaded firearm in specified public areas. The bill would, subject to exceptions, make it a misdemeanor to openly carry an unloaded handgun on the person in specified public areas. By creating a new offense, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The bill would make conforming and nonsubstantive technical changes. The bill would incorporate amendments to Section 12001 of the Penal Code, proposed by AB 1810, contingent on the prior enactment of that bill. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.