We, the undersigned, strongly urge you to vote NO on AB1769 which will eliminate gun shows at the Ventura County Fair Grounds. Gun shows at the Ventura County Fair Grounds are a safe, educational event that caters to a diverse population within our community. We support gun shows and want them to continue at the fairgrounds.

Gun shows are a primary source of firearm safety and education. They are an ideal place for current and prospective firearm owners to gather a large amount of information in one consolidated location. Access to information is paramount to safe and responsible firearm ownership. A decision to discontinue gun shows and eliminate such a large source of education, where firearm safety is unquestionably the primary focus, makes a community less safe.

The Ventura County Fair Board along with Crossroads of the West continue to have an impeccable record of following state laws and regulations without incident. NO ONE can walk out of a gun show with a firearm. All purchases are subject to the same background check and 10-day wait period as every other firearm transaction in the state. There are no loopholes in this process. In fact, no crimes in Ventura County or surrounding areas have ever been connected to the Ventura County Gun Show.

In 2020, the diversity of firearm ownership changed in California: nearly 50% of new firearms were purchased by women, an estimated 60% were Democrats and minority firearm ownership increased by approximately 58%.  Gun shows are attended by people of all genders, races, and ethnicities, as well as Democrats, Republicans and Independents. It is a naturally inclusive event serving all members of our community interested in exercising their constitutional rights for sport, hunting and personal safety and defense. It is imperative that the fairgrounds continue to host an assorted lineup of events accessible to the unique and diverse needs of all residents. Events should not be limited at this location due to the personal beliefs or interests of any individual member of our state legislature. This decision must be based upon the community’s needs, interests, and safety. This community wants gun shows to continue at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. This dictates that you must vote NO on AB1769.

Gun shows are safe and provide a significant source of education. Continuing gun shows into the future continues to provide a needed service to our community. We urge you to support the interests and safety of our community by voting NO on AB1769.