Pittsburgh City Council Takes Final Vote, Passes Controversial Gun Legislation

PITTSBURGH (AP/KDKA) — Pittsburgh City Council took a final vote Monday morning, passing a package of controversial gun laws introduced after last year’s mass shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue.

Council members voted 6-3 to pass the bills. They now head to Democratic Mayor Bill Peduto for his expected signature.

The legislation will place restrictions on military-style assault weapons like the AR-15 rifle that authorities say was used in the Oct. 27 rampage at Tree of Life Synagogue in Squirrel Hill, which killed 11 people and wounded seven.

It also bans most uses of armor-piercing ammunition and high-capacity magazines, and allows the temporary seizure of guns from people who are determined to be a danger to themselves or others.

After the vote came down, some people in the crowd clapped, but others, like Dennis Jordan aren’t too happy.

“I will not abide by that law. Make a criminal out of me,” said Jordan.

“We know extreme protection orders will help reduce death by reducing suicides and allowing courts to intervene to prevent future tragedies like what we experienced with Tree of Life,” said Jenna Paulat.