Philadelphia gun laws likely to stay

    U.S. Supreme Court ruling from Chicago more likely to be trouble for tougher laws. Philadelphia requires owners to report lost or stolen weapons

    A U.S. Supreme Court ruling that Americans have the right to bear arms anywhere they live may mean the end of Chicago’s decades-old handgun ban. But gun control advocates say the decision will not impact Philadelphia’s gun regulations.

    The ruling leaves open the option for state and local governments to pass “reasonable” restrictions on gun ownership. Philadelphia requires owners to report lost or stolen weapons to the police.

    Ceasefire PA is working to enact a similar bill on lost or stolen guns statewide. Executive Director Joe Grace says the high court’s decision does not restrict such efforts.

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    “We think its a simple responsibility. If your gun is lost or stolen report it to the police. We think that’s reasonable and it is passing muster in Pennsylvania courts. And it should pass muster in any court in the land.”

    Philadelphia’s reporting requirement has withstood one legal challenge, but could be up for more.

    The city also prohibits gun possession for those with mental illness, or anyone under a protection from abuse order. Grace says the high courts ruling will not impact those restrictions.

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