Bill introduced to ban toy guns

Philadelphia kids (and adults) might soon not be able to play cops and robbers. At least not with the full effect of toy guns.

Councilman Kenyatta Johnson introduced legislation Thursday that would ban the sale or use of fake guns.

Johnson, who represents the second council district in Southwest Philadelphia, also introduced legislation two weeks ago that would increase the penalties for anyone selling or using a BB gun (those are already illegal in Philadelphia).

Both have been referred to Council's Public Safety Committee for public hearings. A date has not yet been scheduled.

Johnson introduced the BB gun bill in response to a Labor Day weekend community rally in Point Breeze over corner stores selling BB guns, his spokesman George Farrell previously said. The councilman also fielded calls from a number of parents who were worried BB guns were being mistaken for real firearms on the streets.

Then last week, Atlantic City Council approved an ordinance banning the sale, possession or use of any fake guns, except for non-firing antiques and film prop guns, that could be perceived to be a real gun, according to the Atlantic City Press.

Johnson followed suit this week with a similar legislation. His ordinance, if approved, would ban all realistic-looking toy guns, except those that are white, bright colored or entirely transparent. There are a few other exceptions too.

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