Gun safety legislation in New Castle County was recently signed into law, restricting the locations where future firearm retail businesses can operate. The new ordinance prohibits gun stores from opening within 500 feet of residential areas, 1,000 feet of schools, daycares, or government parks, and 1,500 feet of another firearm retail establishment.
This initiative is part of a series of gun-related ordinances introduced by the New Castle County Council this year, which also includes prohibiting guns in libraries and county buildings and addressing gun ammunition theft. County Executive Matt Meyer praised the collaboration with the city of Wilmington, which has taken similar steps to regulate gun store density within city limits.
Meyer emphasized the importance of this legislation in promoting safety and reducing gun violence, particularly in communities of color. He described gun violence as a public health crisis and expressed hope that the new ordinances will help address this issue. The County Council unanimously passed the zoning ordinance, recognizing the need to prevent new gun stores from opening near sensitive locations and combatting the concentration of gun stores in the county.
Overall, this initiative is aimed at creating a safer environment and preventing the proliferation of gun-related incidents in New Castle County. Meyer’s focus on public safety underscores the importance of implementing measures to address the root causes of gun violence and promote a safer community for all residents.
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