Weston proposes stricter gun laws

WESTON, Conn. (WTNH) -- Changes to gun laws are in the works on both a state and federal level but one town doesn't want to wait. Weston officials are proposing stricter rules in their town in the wake of the tragedy at Sandy Hook.

Right now the use of military style weapons is banned in Weston but not possession of them.

The tragedy at Sandy Hook rang loudly in nearby Weston where selectmen aren't waiting for the state or the nation. They're proposing their own gun law reform.

"What happens impacts our residents directly and it's our police officers who have to respond to this kind of attack," said Democratic First Selectman Gayle Weinstein.

The proposal was written by a Republican selectman and is being supported by Democrats on the board.

"I think it's great to see somebody step up and hopefully get some attention. The more attention the better," said Larry Vavrek of Peter's Spirit Shop.

The first proposed change would ban assault and automatic weapons as well as magazines capable of storing more than ten rounds. The second requires safe and secure storage of weapons not being used and the third requires owners to register weapons with the town.

"I have guns and I don't think I have to do that," said John Grasso who works in Weston.

The first selectman realizes there may be concerns about respecting rights to privacy but Weinstein says, "I want to make sure that our officers who are going into a home maybe for a domestic assault or something like that have an understanding of the guns that are in the house."

Like many police departments Weston Police gives out gun locks for free for anyone who needs them. News 8 didn't even have to ask for a gun lock. There was a display right in the front lobby and they are free to take so obviously police and town leaders are encourage people to lock up their guns but should it be a law?

"I think it should," said Emily Litteral of Weston.

"We understand that our residents will have guns in their homes but let's make sure the children and those who are mentally ill don't have access to those guns," said Weinstein.