Explanation
The purpose of this ordinance is to enact new sections of the Columbus City Codes to prohibit the sale of imitation firearms to minors and to prohibit the alteration of an imitation firearm or possession of an imitation firearm that has been altered to look like a real firearm.
Title
To enact new sections 2323.51, 2323.52, 2323.53, and 2323.54 of the Columbus City Codes to prohibit the sale of imitation firearms to minors and to also prohibit the alteration of an imitation firearm or possession of same.
Body
WHEREAS, imitation firearms are virtually indistinguishable from real weapons and can be marketed toward children; and
WHEREAS, markings and identifiers that indicate a firearm is a replica are easily removed or altered to make the imitation firearm look real; and
WHEREAS, at least 70 individuals brandishing imitation firearms were shot and killed by law enforcement nationwide in 2016 and 2017; now, therefore,
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
SECTION 1. That new section 2323.51 of the Columbus City Codes is hereby enacted, reading as follows:
2323.51- Definitions - Imitation Firearms.
As used in sections 2323.51 to 2323.54:
(A) "BB device" means any instrument that expels a projectile, such as a BB or a pellet, through the force of air pressure, gas pressure, or spring action, including any airsoft gun and any spot marker or paintball guns unless specifically exempted under division (B).
(B) "Imitation firearm" means any BB device, replica of a firearm, or other device that is so substantially similar in coloration and overall appearance to an existing firearm as to lead a reasonable person to perceive that the device is a firearm. As used in Sections 2323.52 and 2323.54, “imitation firearm” does not include the following:
(1) A nonfiring collector’s replica that is historically significant, and is offered for sale in conjunction with a wall plaque or presentation case;
(2) A device where the entire exterior...
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