Misdemeanor offenses: deferral of sentencing: firearms prohibition.

Existing law authorizes a judge in the superior court, at the judge's discretion and over the objection of the prosecution, to defer sentencing a defendant who has submitted a plea of guilty or nolo contendere to a misdemeanor for a period not to exceed 12 months, subject to certain exceptions and requirements on the defendant. This bill would prohibit a defendant who is charged with an offense that would prohibit them from possessing a firearm if convicted of the offense from possessing a firearm until they successfully complete diversion. By increasing duties on local law enforcement to enforce firearms prohibitions, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. 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, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.