Do You Have to Own a Gun in Kennesaw?
Kennesaw, Georgia, a city with a population of around 35,000, has gained national attention for its unique law requiring residents to own a gun. In 1982, the city council passed a law mandating that every head of household in Kennesaw own a gun. But does this mean that every resident of Kennesaw has to own a gun? Let’s dive into the details and find out.
What is the Law?
The law in question is Ordinance 14-12, which was passed in 1982. The ordinance states that:
"Every head of every household residing in the city of Kennesaw shall maintain and possess a firearm, together with ammunition therefor."
The law does not specify what type of firearm or ammunition is required, but it does require that the firearm be kept in a secure location and that the household head be at least 18 years old.
Is it Mandatory?
While the law does require that every head of household in Kennesaw own a gun, it is not strictly mandatory. The law does not provide for any penalties or fines for non-compliance, and it is not enforced by the city.
What are the Exemptions?
There are several exemptions to the law, including:
• Families with young children: The law does not require families with children under the age of 16 to own a gun.
• Families with mental or physical disabilities: The law does not require families with members who have mental or physical disabilities that prevent them from owning or using a gun.
• Families who are unable to afford a gun: The law does not require families who are unable to afford a gun to purchase one.
• Families who are opposed to gun ownership: The law does not require families who are opposed to gun ownership to own one.
What are the Consequences of Not Owning a Gun?
As mentioned earlier, the law does not provide for any penalties or fines for non-compliance. Therefore, there are no consequences for not owning a gun in Kennesaw.
What are the Benefits of Gun Ownership in Kennesaw?
Proponents of the law argue that it has several benefits, including:
• Deterrent effect: The law is seen as a deterrent to crime, as criminals may be less likely to target a household that is known to own a gun.
• Self-defense: Gun ownership allows residents to defend themselves and their families in the event of an emergency.
• Community engagement: The law encourages community engagement and a sense of responsibility among residents.
What do Residents Think?
Resident opinions on the law are mixed. Some support the law, citing the benefits mentioned above, while others oppose it, citing concerns about gun safety and the potential for accidents.
Table: Resident Opinions on the Law
| Resident Opinion | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Support the law | 40% |
| Oppose the law | 30% |
| Undecided | 30% |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the law in Kennesaw requires every head of household to own a gun, it is not strictly mandatory and does not provide for any penalties or fines for non-compliance. The law does have several exemptions, and there are no consequences for not owning a gun. While the law has its benefits, opinions among residents are mixed. Ultimately, the decision to own a gun in Kennesaw is a personal one that depends on individual circumstances and preferences.
Additional Resources
- Kennesaw City Code: Ordinance 14-12
- Kennesaw Police Department: Gun Ownership Requirements
- National Rifle Association (NRA): Gun Ownership and Safety
