An Editorial Opinion of The Demopolis Times

The Alabama State Legislature passed a ban on illegal machine gun conversion devices statewide in Alabama. Gov. Kay Ivey signed the bill into law this week.

This law is important because it gives local law enforcement agencies the ability to get these modified weapons off the streets. 

“These weapons are a deadly modification fueling an epidemic of violence in our communities and our state at large. With this legislation being enacted it not only remedies a public safety and law enforcement issue—it helps to remedy gun violence, which is a public health crisis,” said State Sen. Robert Stewart.

Those who break the law regarding the latest signed bill, would be charged with a Class C felony for those who knowingly possess a “Glock Switch”, which is a part or combination of parts designed to convert a pistol into a fully automatic machine gun.

“This law sends a strong message that we will not tolerate the unlawful conversion of firearms and we will continue to stand together for the safety and the security of our citizens,” said Hal Taylor, secretary of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

We are glad to see the state take a stand on these switches. It is a great first step to dealing with the gun violence situation in our area and state.